Evie Matthews has shown that she has the heart, determination and commitment needed to succeed in sport.

The 14-year-old young achiever from Baradine took out the Warrumbungle Shire Council Australia Day award for Young Sportsperson of the Year. Evie was congratulated on her award by Mayor, Katheryn Rindfleish and Professor William Chan at the awards ceremony held in Baradine on Sunday.

Evie’s award recognises her impressive list of sporting achievements that sets her apart as a rising star. She has already earned accolades for her dedication, talent, and hard work from teammates, coaches, and the wider community.  This award recognises Evie’s participation and successes in the following sports:

• Age champion 14 years swimming,
• South Western Waratahs Ruby Unions Academy representative,
• State swimming representative, Cross Country age champion 14 years,
• State Cross Country representative,
• Central North Rugby Unions U14’s State championships (overall fifth position),
• Age Athletics Champion 14 years, State athletics representative,
• State hockey juniors runners up in championships,
• Under 14’s 7’s Rugby Union championships,
• member of the indoor hockey team, coaching under 8 years hockey and umpiring, touch football.

Evie says that it was a surprise to learn she would be receiving the award, but also a great honour.

“I am very proud to be the young sportsperson of the year,” she said. “I am also very thankful for all the opportunities that I've had in sport and to be able to do everything that I have achieved.

“It is a big commitment to go to the training sessions and camps and keeping up with school work, but I just love it. I don't think I could live without it to be honest; it is definitely a massive part of my life. In the future I think I would like to do something professional related to sport.  

“I have been very lucky with the support I get from my family; all the travelling to participate in competition and the hours of training. They have helped me to get where I am and I am very thankful for the sacrifices that they have made for me.”