JSS nominee Tayla braves injuries to stay on the right lane in swimming

TAYLA Wright has given up a part of her social life and even her beloved dancing — all because she wants to be the best swimmer she can be.

Our JSS nominee Tayla Wright has a lot to smile about. Pictures: Justin Sanson

TAYLA Wright has given up a part of her social life and even her beloved dancing — all because she wants to be the best swimmer she can be.

The 13-year-old Glenwood High School athlete has also fought back after suffering a serious ankle injury last September where she snapped and tore ligaments.

Despite the setbacks, Tayla qualified for the NSW State Open and Nationals Age Championships where she swam her PB in the backstroke leg of the 4x50m medley.

Junior Sport Star Tayla Wright pictured at the Seven Hills Sports High School pool.

This week’s Junior Sports Star nominee also won a gold medal in the team relay triathlon in Penrith and is now focused on improving her timings and winning more medals.

“I was so proud to make the national team and to go to Adelaide to swim against the best in my age group,” Tayla said.

“It was one of the best experiences of my life, this makes me want to train harder and try to qualify for more swims next nationals.”

Junior Sport Star Tayla Wright pictured at the Seven Hills Sports High School pool.

Tayla’s single-minded determination in swimming has meant she had to make a tough decision between pet sport and dancing when she was 11.

This dedication has paid off in spades for the focused Tayla, who won gold medal in the Combined High School team relay triathlon with her squad and a bronze at the All schools championship.

Tayla also qualified for State Open for the first time in the 100m backstroke, gaining qualification for the nationals, while just missing to make the cut for the 200m backstroke.

Junior Sport Star Tayla Wright pictured at the Seven Hills Sports High School pool.

“Her commitment to her swimming has meant that sometimes she foregoes other activities socially with friends that may cause injury and affect her potential in the pool,” her mum Mandy said.

Junior Sport Stars Brayden Smith and Tayla Wright pictured at the Seven Hills Sports High School pool.

“As her parents we are very proud of her achievements and her determination to come back so well after her injury.”

■ The Junior Sports Star awards are proudly sponsored by Rebel.

■ To nominate someone you know, visit: www. juniorsports star.com.au