Financial boost for Northern Rivers junior sporting champions

Baseball, cricket, gymnastics, water polo and swimming were all covered in the latest round of the Northern Rivers Local Sporting Champions by Page MP Kevin Hogan.

The recipients were:

"Those who received the Awards have excelled themselves representing the Northern Rivers on the national and state stage," Mr Hogan said.

"The Local Sporting Champions program provides financial assistance to young people aged between 12 and 18 years to compete, coach or umpire in their chosen sport."

"The Northern Rivers 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."

Grants between $550 and $750 will help the recipients attend regional, state and national competitions or pay for uniforms and other expenses along the way.

The kids were recognised at the annual Northern Rivers School Leaders day hosted by Hogan at Lismore High School on April 23.

Lismore cricket legend Lyn Larsen was the guest speaker.

"It is always an inspiring event to witness the passion and dedication of our young leaders," Mr Hogan said.

"These students play an important role in the life of their school community and it's important to recognise them and thank them."

"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," Mr Hogan said.

"I encourage any budding champions out there 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 ausport.gov.au."