Gymnast Michaela Whitehouse scoops NSW Junior International Athlete of the Year award

MT ANNAN rhythmic gymnast Michaela Whitehouse was recognised as the sport's top junior competitor.

Youth Olympics

MT ANNAN rhythmic gymnast Michaela Whitehouse was recognised as the sport's top junior competitor when she received the Gymnastics NSW Junior International Athlete of the Year award.

The former Macarthur Chronicle Young Achiever said she was honoured to receive the prestigious award at the ANZ Stadium ceremony.

"It was surprising (winning the award) as there was some outstanding athletes I was up against. Our whole team was very professional and full of talented gymnasts."

The 14-year-old said several achievements last year led to the award win.

"Early last year I was chosen in the Australian team for the Pacific Rim Championships in Everett, Washington and I came 18th in my first ever international event.

"It was a huge confidence boost to make the top 20 in my debut."

Whitehouse was also third overall in the Australian Gymnastics Championship's junior international category, which included gold in the club final, as well as three more bronze medals in the hoop, ball and ribbon events.

Whitehouse said the key to her success was a dedication to training.

"I trained five days a week with sessions lasting between four and five hours. It was about taking baby steps and ensuring I had the basics right."sG she said.

"Winning the award makes me want to push myself further because I would love to win it back-to-back."