FOUR fantastic athletes from the Northern Beaches have been recognised for their sporting achievements.

Hannah Burton from Emerald Beach, Eve Genrich from Moonee Beach, Mali Loomes from Safety Beach, and Jayden Perrett from Woolgoolga were each presented with a certificate in recognition of their achievements by Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan.

Hannah Burton received her certificate for excellence in touch football, Eve Genrich for basketball, Mali Loomes for golf, and Jayden Perrett for baseball.

The four young athletes have been given a great opportunity to follow their dreams after receiving grants from the Local Sporting Champions program.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan explained the importance of the Local Sporting Champions program and its support of local athletes.

“The Local Sporting Champions program provides financial assistance to young people aged between twelve and eighteen years to compete, coach or umpire in their chosen sport,” he said.

“Those who received the awards have excelled themselves representing the Northern Beaches on the national and state stage,” he said.

“The Northern Beaches has produced some outstanding sportspeople in the past, and it is important that we support the next crop of our local sporting talent.

“Unfortunately succeeding in sport doesn’t just take talent and determination – parents also often have to put their hands in their pockets to get their children to competitions.

“I’m very pleased to be able to help these families with financial support through these grants.

“Sport is important in the development of young people; it teaches them life-long skills like teamwork, keeps them fit and healthy, and allows them to excel in something they love and enjoy.

“I encourage any budding champions who have the opportunity of competing at a state, national or international event to apply for a grant by contacting my office or checking out the website www.sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding.”

By Aiden BURGESS