Nicolas Diaz Ballas youngest NSW trampoline gymnast competing in the international youth division
As the youngest NSW athlete competing in his category, trampoline gymnast Nicolas Diaz Ballas’ passion and desire is what’s helping him stand out.
- Hills Basketball Stadium to host Ben Simmons’ first-ever Sydney basketball camp
- Antonia Diaz Ballas earns finals finish at Australian Gymnastics Championships
Nicolas Diaz Ballas might not be able to jump the highest or have the most advanced skillset, but he absolutely wants it the most.
After being named Gymnastics NSW’ National Stream Athlete of the Year in 2018, the 12-year-old from Kellyville Ridge became the youngest NSW trampoline gymnast competing in the international youth division.
“It’s sometimes hard in a way because some of the older boys have already developed more difficult skills to compete than me and have better form and shape,” Nicolas said.
“They also jump higher than me, which gives them higher time of flight scores.
“I learned that my competitors have these advantages over me so can do better in competitions but that inspires me to train harder and I aim to jump higher so that I have a chance against them.
“Overall though, a lot of the boys I compete with are my training buddies and they are really good supporters. The help me out a lot.”
Despite his youth, Nicolas dominated at the Australian Gymnastics Championships in June to secure an eligibility score for the World Age Championships in December.
“It means a lot to know that I have qualified and can possibly be chosen to represent Australia,” Nicolas said.
“It means that all my hard work has paid off and now it will make me work even harder to make sure I am selected on the team. But if I’m not selected, it doesn’t matter because there is always next year and the year after that.
“My aim now is to get the automatic qualifying score, which means I’m instantly on the Australian team and don’t really have to be chosen. I’m going to try do this at the National Clubs Competition in September.”
Nicolas is a Rouse Hill Times Junior Sports Star nominee for the 2019 Local Sports Stars competition.
The awards recognise and reward talented athletes across a wide range of sports, as well as the hardworking volunteers who keep associations running each weekend.
For more information or to nominate someone you know, go to localsportsstars.com.au
IN OTHER NEWS
Deep dive: Stars to watch at Aus Interschool Surfing Titles
More than 2000 of the country’s best young surfers will compete in the inaugural Australian Interschools Surfing Championships on the Gold Coast. We reveal the must-watch stars who will make history here.
Revealed: Players you need to watch at National Netball Championships
Future Diamonds will shine on the court at the National Netball Championships. Find out which players you should be keeping an eye on during the week-long tournament.