MARIAH Saunders made history when she represented the Hunter in an inter-regional competition at Homebush on Wednesday, 25 September.

Mariah is a member of the first ever Hunter School Sports Association’s Girls Primary Rugby League team, which took on South Coast and Sydney West last week.

In order to make the team, Mariah had to register, apply, then be invited to a trial in early September.

Of the 130 girls who tried out, only 17 were selected.

The news that Mariah was selected for the Hunter representative side came to the family back in June, coincidentally on her father Ryan’s birthday – a nice birthday surprise indeed.

Mariah has also recently been accepted into the highly competitive Hunter Sports High School (HSHS) in Gateshead.

“Although 50 girls tried out for HSHS, only eight were selected after undergoing two trials to show their skills and game, and sitting a major selective test,” explained Mariah’s mum, Leah.

With four children now excelling in representative sides, the Saunders family was feeling the strain, however a local sponsor has come on board to support Mariah’s sporting pursuits.

Businesswoman and realtor Kirsten Adam-Grant gladly answered the call to assist, sponsoring Mariah in both her recent endeavours.

“Kirsten has previously sponsored the Lady Hawks Tag team, and she is very passionate about women and recognising them in sports,” Leah said.

Kirsten told NOTA it was very important to support the local community where possible.

“I want to support girls in sport, especially this beautiful young lady who is doing so well.

“Mariah’s mum and dad do so much for the community here, and we need to support our locals in order to keep growing local talent.

“We are all very proud of Mariah!”

Mariah, who also topped her grade in NAPLAN writing last year, heads into high school with a solid head start, thanks to the generosity of community-minded people like Kirsten, and the community-oriented efforts of her parents and family.

By Thomas O’KEEFE