Sporting group helps athletes shine

Darling Downs sports group does its part to foster athletic development

YOUNG STAR: David Russell presents Ellie Bowyer with last year's Wippells Autos Junior Sports Star of the year award. Picture: Nev Madsen

MICK SMITH was never meant to be the Sports Darling Down president.

The Toowoomba businessman only accepted the role after "the other bloke" didn't show up to the general meeting of the organisation.

Now "the accidental president" couldn't be prouder of the work he and his team have achieved since that first meeting 20 years ago.

"It's been a pretty long road. A lot of hard work and a lot of hours," Smith said.

"At the time you don't realise all the things you've achieved, the people you've helped.

"The last few weeks I've done a little more thinking, looked back at some of athletes we've helped and thought 'wow'.

"We started out 20 years ago just wanting to help regional athletes but it's become about so much more than that.

"We've helped Olympians, Commonwealth Games athletes, world champions and countless others. I like to think we've done our part to help countless athletes achieve the best they could.

"I've always had a good team around me though and we (Sports Darling Downs) wouldn't be as successful as we are without all those people."

Smith also holds a special place in his heart for the all the Toowoomba and Darling Downs businesses who have supported the organisation.

"When we started the committee all chipped in to pay the various fees," Smith said.

"Since then it's been local businesses making donations and supporting us.

"We started out with half a dozen or so and it's grown and grown.

"We recently celebrated one million dollars in donations and support to athletes.

"It blows my mind to think we've been able to provide that much support.

"I have (local) councils and organisations ringing me all the time asking 'how do we replicate this?'.

"I say them 'I don't think you can make it happen - at least not overnight'.

"You need that community support - we have that here in the Darling Downs.

"Everyone just wants to help people be their best and I am thankful for that."

AWARD NIGHT: Toowoomba's Rumours International plays host to the Sports Darling Downs awards ceremony Saturday, February 9. A number of former award winners, Olympians, Commonwealth Games athletes and world champions will be in attendance to celebrate the 20-year milestone.

Originally published as Sporting group helps athletes shine