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SOME of Lake Macquarie's up-and-coming junior sport stars have been rewarded with a Local Sporting Champions Grant.
The grants program provides $500 for individuals and $3000 for teams, to help cover the cost of travel, accommodation, uniforms or equipment when competing, coaching or officiating at a state, national or international sporting event.
Member for Charlton Pat Conroy presented the grants in a ceremony at his office.
"There are so many talented young sportspeople in our area, and it is great to be able to acknowledge their achievements," he said.
Among the local athletes to receive the grant was Wangi Wangi sailor Kimberley Russell, who recently became both the female champion and junior champion at the Tiger Catamaran State titles.
Griffin Lea made his first grade cricket debut this year with Toronto, but the Martinsville local was recognised for his achievements in hockey.
Griffin has played hockey since he was four and recently attended the under-15s Australian Hockey Championship in Darwin.
Yasmin Skene, of Teralba, also received a grant for her endeavours in hockey.
She competed at the NSW under-15s hockey competition and was also invited to play for Parramatta in the NSW under-18s competition.
Joshua Milford, from Woodrising, and Kathleen Young, of Awaba, were recognised for their achievements in athletics.
Both competed at the NSW Combined High Schools athletics carnival.
The Macquarie Shores Swim Club from Toronto received a team grant.
"It's also about recognising the effort that parents put in to their children's sport," Mr Conroy said.
"I've heard many stories of long car trips and early morning starts, and so in many ways the parents put in just as much time and energy as the athletes themselves."
Mr Conroy said there are many young sportspeople that are coming up through the ranks of local clubs who may be eligible for these grants, and he encouraged them to apply.
■ For more information about the grants, do an internet search of Local Sporting Champions Grants.