Jeremiah Burgess has wasted no time in taking to the rugby league field

Try Time player Jeremiah Burgess has great spirit

Jeremiah Burgess has received a huge confidence boost since joining the Mt Druitt Lions. Picture: Angelo Velardo

HASSALL GROVE’S Jeremiah Burgess has been nominated for a Local Sports Star Award in the individual spirit category for his outstanding commitment to the Mt Druitt Lions Try Time team.

Joining his first sports team in March this year, the Hebersham Public School student joined Try Time, a team for players with autism and other disabilities, taking seamlessly to the new sporting endeavour.

In addition to his Try Time commitments, Jeremiah, 10, takes great pride in the running of the tee at Saturday matches, a responsibility given to him by his mates on the Mt Druitt Lions under-11s boys team.

Mum Christina said her son had benefited from a huge boost in confidence since joining his own team, and assisting the Under 11s, coached by his dad, Ash.

“Running the tee on to the field has absolutely made his life; you have no idea,” Mrs Burgess said. “He is a quiet boy, but now he knows all of his teammates’ names, and he is at training and games without fail.”

The Lego enthusiast previously shied away from running in hot sun, but now gives the sport everything he’s got, according to Mrs Burgess.

“He’s quickly finding his independence and confidence, he just says ‘Bye Mum’ and runs off to the game,” she said. “He’s a great kid, he’s making so much progress — and being a part of the club has been a big part of that.”

The 2018 Local Sports Stars Awards run until August 31. Prizes will be awarded to athletes aged 18 and under across four categories. Details: localsportsstars.com.au/newslocal