Junior Sports Star winners taking on their competition in Liverpool
Two young women making an impact in their sports were honoured at last night’s Junior Sports Star Awards.
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Two talented young sports stars were honoured at last night’s NewsLocal Junior Sports Star Awards.
Lurnea kickboxer Isobelle Padilla, 15, won this Liverpool Leader’s Junior Sports Star award.
“I didn’t expect this at all,” Isobelle said after winning the award.
The rising star trains at Martial Energy in Wetherill Park, and is also in Year 11 at Good Samaritan Catholic College in Hinchinbrook.
“At first I just did karate, but then I started to integrate more forms like jujitsu,” Isobelle said.
“I decided to give that a go and figured out that I liked it.”
Isobelle said her biggest achievement was competing in Ireland, and making the quarterfinals in a major championship competition there.
“Before I compete I’m always nervous, but once I’m in the ring the fear just melts away,” Isobelle said.
“My family is a big support – they encourage me, they inspire me, and I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Moorebank cricket player Jade Errington, 13, won the Liverpool Leader’s Junior Sports Star Sporting Spirit award.
Jade is a steely presence in the under 15s Moorebank cricket team, and in the Bankstown Sports female under 17s team.
“This award was a surprise, but it’s such a cool experience,” Jade said.
Jade overcame adversity in recent months after a forced 10 week break due to a broken finger.
“It wasn’t just a break, it was a snap,” Jade said.
“But I’m back on the field now and I’m hoping to be part of the under 17s team and the under 15s academy team this year as well.”
Jade’s mother Virginia said her daughter worked hard for the results.
“I’m so proud of her attitude,” Mrs Errington said.
“She is fair when she’s on the pitch, she acknowledges the efforts of others, encourages those that find it difficult and she puts everything into her games.”
Mrs Errington said increasing equity in women’s professional sports was an encouraging development as her daughter looks to a future in professional cricket.
“Girls can now start to have a career in cricket and not work two or three jobs to support themselves, thanks to partnerships such as Lendlease and the NSW Breakers,” Mrs Errington said.
“The Big Bash is brilliant and the girls selected to that level are receiving financial recognition – there is more equity now, but there is always more to be done.”
Do you know a Junior Sports Star? The 2017 competition for local rising stars of sport is now open. Send your nominations to the Liverpool Leader’s sport reporter at eliza.barr@news.com.au.
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