Sixteen Lake Macquarie swimmers and track and field athletes will represent the City of Lake Macquarie, managed by the Hunter Academy of Sport, at the International Children’s Games (ICG) in Kecskemet, Hungary from 30 June to 5 July 2020.
The ICG is the biggest youth multi-sport event in the world and is sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee. Lake Macquarie has been a regular participant in the annual Games since 2008 and in 2014 became the first Australian city to host the event.
On the back of a very successful event in Ufa, Russia at the 2019 games a number if athletes are returning to take their place in Team Lake Mac to again represent the City in Hungary.
The athletes chosen to represent Team Lake Mac at the Kecskemet Games are: Jacob Wheeler, Amber Xavier, Brooke Xavier, Jemma Pollard, Hannah Jarvis, Emily Richardson, Paige Wheeler, Amanda Young (athletics); and, Chloe Scanlon, Ella Kohl, Taylor Allen, Amelia Hall, Blair Southam, Caleb Baker, Che Van Beek and Spencer Hamilton (swimming).
Team Lake Mac will be managed by the Hunter Academy of Sport and accompanied by the Mayor of Lake Macquarie, Councillor Kay Fraser.
“The International Children’s Games is a high-level competition that uses sport to promote cultural awareness and interaction, so our young athletes participate not only as competitors but also as goodwill ambassadors for their city and country,” Cr Fraser said.
“Each year we have a great group of kids that make our community so proud. It is a wonderful chance for them to compete internationally, all while making new friends, travelling and learning about other cultures.”
Sisters and local athletes Brooke and Amber Xavier are thrilled to be travelling to the games to compete not only as sisters but also competitors.
“Having the experience to represent my city, wearing my uniform with pride and travelling to another country to compete is something I love and a dream come true. These dreams are made possible by Lake Macquarie City Council and ICG,” said Brooke Xavier.
Brooke’s sister, Amber Xavier can’t wait for next year’s games saying “The ICG has brought me closer to people and a burning passion. Ever since I was selected to compete for Russia last year, I haven’t looked back.
“I have had the opportunity to compete against some amazing athletes and make new friends all over the world.
“I am extra lucky that I can stand side by side with my sister in an international event. This has all been possible with the help of ICG, Lake Macquarie City Council and Hunter Academy of Sport,” added Ms Xavier.
Head of Delegation, Karen Turner, from the Hunter Academy of Sport, said the Games were a great opportunity for emerging athletes.
“It is an opportunity that has become available to this group of local young track and field athletes and swimmers through their hard work, dedication and passion to their individual sport. This year we have selected a very talented team of athletes who I feel sure will put their very best effort into training and preparation and represent Lake Macquarie with pride and distinction,” said Ms Turner.
Three coaches will also travel with the team to guide the athletes in their preparation for the Games: Mavis Godber, Duan Daley (athletics) and Karen Leth (swimming).