At just12 years old, Jaxon Robertson is already training for more than two hours most days of the week.
He is hoping to one day follow in his older brother’s footsteps to represent Australia in the World Championships for inline speed skating.
Jaxon competing in inline speed skating.
Jaxon, from Lower Chittering, first tried on a pair of skates at the age of six and had begun regular training and competing by age seven.
“One day I joined in on some training sessions [with my brother] and realised that I loved skating and the group of people are nice,” he said.
“I train five to six days a week at my home club at the Morley Rollerdrome, and I also train in Midvale and Malaga.”
This year, for the first time, Jaxon took part in the Oceania Championships. He said it had been a difficult competition, and he had not placed, but that it had been “a lot of fun” and he had been happy to simply attend.
“It was nice to meet new people in the skating world,” Jaxon said.
“I also love catching up with friends that I have made from other states around Australia.
“We were at the track at 7am until finish and that can be very late at night. I have a hard grade this year, I didn’t place, but I was in the top 10 sitting around seventh position.”
But Jaxon has previously placed, coming second in the Victorian state championships last year.
“I would love to go to the Asian championships and one day go to World Championships like my older brother,” he said.
His dedication to the sport has resulted in Jaxon receiving the Variety Children’s Charity Bendat Family Foundation Award.
He was one of three to receive special recognition for their efforts through the charity, and one of almost 70 to receive grant funding through the Variety Heart Scholarship grants for 2025.
Designed to support children to follow their dreams and fulfil their potential in extracurricular activities, the Variety Heart Scholarships benefit children aged six to 17 who live with either disability, disadvantage, or a long-term health condition.
Jaxon with his father.
Jaxon lives with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder.
Under the scholarships program, parents of gifted and talented children could apply for up to $4000 in funding for extracurricular activities to pay for the year’s tuition, travel, fees, sports equipment or uniform items for activities in the arts, sport, or academics.
Variety WA Chief Executive Officer, Chris Chatterton said the scholarships program had received the highest number of applications ever recorded.
“I am thrilled to say we granted $180,000 to fund almost 70 remarkable children who will now have their competition fees, tuition, sports uniforms, costumes and equipment covered,” he said.
Jaxon’s mother, Kylie Robertson, said for her son, inline speed skating has been highly beneficial in supporting the management of his ADHD and ASD symptoms.
“The sport provides a safe and supportive outlet where he can be himself, even on more challenging days,” she said.
“The structure, routine, and focus required for training and competition have all contributed positively to his emotional regulation and overall wellbeing.
“I would strongly recommend that other young people living with ADHD or ASD consider participating in sport.
“Sport not only promotes physical health but also supports the development of emotional regulation, self-confidence, and social connection, all of which contribute meaningfully to overall well-being.
“Inline speed skating, in particular, offers a highly inclusive environment that welcomes individuals of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.”
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