Nayte Ackerley will bring his love for basketball to Germany for World Dwarf Games

Nayte Ackerley’s passion for basketball will take him from Tasmania to Germany to compete in the World Dwarf Games. DETAILS >>

Nayte Ackerley 16 who attends St Virgil's College will represent Australia in basketball at the World Dwarf Games in Germany later this year. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Nayte Ackerley knows persistence pays off.

It took him a year to talk his mother into letting him play basketball.

Now at 16, he’s the youngest player selected in Australia’s basketball team to compete in the World Dwarf Games in Germany in July.

“My best friend and I played soccer together when we were five and then he started to play basketball when he was eight.

“He asked me to play and mum said ‘no’. But after a year of asking, mum finally said yes.”

Nayte, of New Norfolk, is widely respected for his toughness and resilience.

Nayte Ackerley, 16, who attends St Virgil's College will represent Australia in basketball at the World Dwarf Games in Germany later this year. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“I’m very competitive - I like to win.

“In basketball with average height players I play the point guard roll. I will also be playing a guard position in Germany.”

Nayte says he’s never been bullied and has a great group of friends.

He’s excited to be playing on the world stage.

“I am a little nervous but more excited,” he said.

“I am very casual so I don’t normally get nervous.”

He has a powerful message for others.

“No matter your height, you can do anything you dream of.”

“Disabilities aren’t barriers.”

Nayte Ackerley, 16. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Parents Tameeka and Wayne are immensely proud of Nayte’s success. Wayne and Nayte’s cousin Blake will accompany him to the games.

“Wayne and I are so proud of Nayte. When he was born we didn’t know what his life would hold and he has grown into an amazing young man.,” Tameeka said

“He had to work a lot harder in the average size league, playing for NNBA.

“It is harder to get a shot up and also sprint the floor. He has learnt to play smarter, not harder. “

The Ackerleys are overwhelmed at the incredible community support to get Nayte, one of four children who all play sport, to the games.

“We are fortunate to have the support we need to get Nayte to Germany.”

The New Norfolk Basketball Association is delighted at Nayte’s success.

“He has a dangerous crossover and a very sharp perimeter shot,” they said on Facebook.

“He now gets to put everything he’s wanted, and worked for, on the world stage.

“Look out Germany you are in for a ride.”

Donations are tax deductable and links can be found on the Short Statured People of Australia Facebook.