Tim Hodge named Blacktown’s 36th Sportsperson of the Year

Commonwealth Games silver medallist swimmer Timothy Hodge has been named Blacktown’s 36th Sportsperson of the Year at the 2019 Blacktown City Sports Awards Gala Dinner.

Tim Hodge competing during the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

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Commonwealth Games silver medallist swimmer Timothy Hodge has been named Blacktown’s 36th Sportsperson of the Year at the 2019 Blacktown City Sports Awards Gala Dinner.

The 18-year-old from Patrician Brothers’ College headlined more than 80 sports competitors, coaches, administrators and officials who were honoured at the event, which was held at Blacktown City RSL Club on Saturday.

“Timothy made swimming history when he became the only para-swimmer to qualify and compete in three events at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April, 2018,” Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali said.

(From left) Mayor Stephen Bali, Ron Keys (winner of the Mayor’s Shield), Cr Brad Bunting, Mark Geyer. Source: Blacktown City Council

“Not only did Timothy compete in three events he won silver medals in S9 100m breaststroke and the S9 100m backstroke.

“His persistence, hard work and dedication over many years paid off with a haul of silver on the Gold Coast.

“Timothy is an inspiration not only for Blacktown’s sporting community but also for our entire community.”

Among the other major winners on the night were trampolinist Holly Kerslake, who took out Junior Sportsperson of the Year and Ron Keys, who claimed the Mayor’s Shield.

Holly Kerslake was named Blacktown Junior Sportsperson of the Year. Source: Blacktown City Council

Holly is one of the best young trampolinists in the world, finishing fourth at last year’s Youth Olympics, while Keys was honoured for more than 40 years of service to Little Athletics.

“Ron has been the stalwart of Doonside LAC, holding the position of treasurer for 35 years and has also officiated at state and national Little Athletics and Athletics Australia championships,” Mr Bali said.

“Ron is always at the finishing line at Little A’s and always has an encouraging word for the kids. He is truly an icon of Blacktown’s sporting community.”

FULL LIST OF WINNERS

Sportsperson of the Year: Timothy Hodge – swimming

Sports Coach of the Year: Brett Kirk - Softball

Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Holly Kerslake - Trampolining

Sports Volunteer of the Year: Robert McKinlay – Junior Rugby League

Sports Official of the Year: Faye Lewis - Swimming

Team of the Year: 10 & Under Girls Harry Beck Inter-district Team - Tennis

Club of the Year: Blacktown Little Athletics

Mayor’s Shield: Ron Keys - Athletics