Regional Academies of Sport (RAS) have reaffirmed their position as a cornerstone of athlete development in regional Australia, with alumni claiming five major honours at the Sport NSW – NSW Sports Awards held on Monday, 24th November at The Star, Sydney.
RAS alumni winners included:
- Athlete of the Year: Nicola Olyslagers (Central Coast Academy of Sport)
- Athlete of the Year with a Disability: Lauren Parker (Hunter Academy of Sport)
- Young Athlete of the Year: Sienna Toohey (Southern Sports Academy)
- Young Athlete of the Year with a Disability: Jackson Gray (Southern Sports Academy)
- Coach of the Year: Matthew Horsnell (Central Coast Academy of Sport)
This incredible result underscores the vital role RAS plays in shaping the future of sport in regional Australia. With 14 finalists across five categories, RAS continues to deliver world-class pathways for regional athletes, ensuring talent from outside metropolitan areas has access to elite coaching, education, and support.
For more than three decades, RAS has partnered with state sporting organisations, the NSW Institute of Sport, and Paralympics Australia to provide inclusive, high-performance programs that prepare athletes for success on the national and international stage. From grassroots to podium, RAS programs are a proven launchpad for champions.
RAS CEO Brett O’Farrell said: “These awards are a powerful endorsement of the Regional Academies of Sport model. Our Academies are not just producing athletes – they’re building leaders, role models and communities. The success of Nicola, Lauren, Sienna, Jackson, and Matthew reflects the strength of regional pathways and the dedication of our network.”
The NSW Sports Awards celebrate the achievements of athletes, coaches, officials, and organisations who have made outstanding contributions to sport in NSW.
Photo: Jackson Gray from the Southern Sports Academy with his Young Athlete of the Year with a Disability Award at the Sports NSW Awards.
