Teen captains NSW to victory at Australian Little Athletics Championships

Rachel Bardney has overcome the pressure of being named NSW team captain to lead her state to victory at the 2019 Australian Little Athletics Championships.

Rachel Bardney has led NSW to victory at the 2019 Australian Little Athletics Championships. Picture: Lisa Bardney

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Heading into the 2019 Australian Little Athletics Championships as NSW team captain, Rachel Bardney knew there would be added pressure on her to lead by example.

Luckily for NSW, the 13-year-old thrives under pressure.

Rachel came away with two gold and two silver medals. Picture: Lisa Bardney

Not only did the Stanhope Gardens resident come away from the competition with two golds in discus and shot put, and two silvers in javelin and relay, she also led the state to a resounding team victory.

Despite how well she handled her role, Rachel admits to having plenty of pre-event nerves.

“I felt a little extra pressure to perform well as team captain,” she said.

She said she was “privileged” to be able to lead her state. Picture: Lisa Bardney

“I think my NSW teammates expected me to do well so I’m glad I was able to cope with the added pressure and earn good points for my team.

“I’m glad I was able to control my nerves by just taking a deep breath and focusing on my technique and everything fell into place.”

Looking forward, Rachel feels like the experience she gained as captain will serve her well as she continues to make waves in athletics.

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“I enjoyed being NSW team captain,” she said.

“Team NSW bonded really well at the first weekend camp. Everyone in the team were really respectful of each other and supported each other in everything we did. We all encouraged each other during competition which I think lifted many individual performances.

“I feel very privileged to have had this experience.”