Young Indigenous athletes from across the Hunter region enjoyed a day of sport, learning and inspiration on Thursday 25 June at the Maitland Federation Centre, as the Hunter Academy of Sport hosted its annual Indigenous Talent Identification (ITID) Day.
Made possible through the generous support of Underwriting Agencies Australia (UAA) and Santos, the event brought together aspiring athletes for a fun and engaging day designed to identify sporting potential while introducing participants to the pathways available through the Hunter Academy of Sport.
Throughout the day, students rotated through a range of testing and sport-specific activities, including basketball, hockey, netball, rugby league, and Functional Movement Testing. Each activity was designed to assess key athletic attributes such as speed, agility, coordination and movement, while encouraging participants to challenge themselves in a supportive environment.
A highlight of the day was the opportunity for students to meet and learn from several respected sporting figures, including former Newcastle Knights players Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Alex McKinnon, former Hunter Academy of Sport athlete and Maitland Mustangs representative Myles Cherry.
Their involvement gave participants the chance to hear first-hand about the dedication, resilience and commitment required to succeed in sport, while demonstrating that elite sporting pathways are achievable for young athletes from regional communities.
The Indigenous Talent Identification Day forms part of the Hunter Academy of Sport’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people through sport. Beyond identifying emerging talent, the program aims to build confidence, strengthen community connections and provide access to high-performance development opportunities.
Several athletes impressed throughout the day, with a number of standout performances highlighting the depth of talent across the Hunter region. Selected participants will be invited to continue their sporting journey through Hunter Academy of Sport development opportunities.
“Days like today are about so much more than testing athletic ability. They’re about giving young people the opportunity to challenge themselves, connect with inspiring role models and see what’s possible through sport. We were incredibly impressed by the enthusiasm, attitude and talent on display, and we’re excited to see where the journey takes many of these athletes.”
Roxanne Wain, Regional Manager, Hunter Academy of Sport
The Hunter Academy of Sport Indigenous Talent Identification program continues to provide an important pathway for young Indigenous athletes, connecting them with experienced coaches, athlete education and development opportunities that support both sporting and personal growth.
The next Hunter Academy of Sport Indigenous Talent Identification Day will be held on Wednesday 26 August at Muswellbrook Sports Centre, providing another opportunity for young Indigenous athletes from across the Upper Hunter to showcase their abilities.
The Hunter Academy of Sport extends its sincere thanks to all participating schools, families, coaches, volunteers and event partners, including UAA, Santos, Maitland City Council, Office of Sport, and the University of Newcastle, whose support made the day such a success. Their ongoing commitment continues to create opportunities for the next generation of Indigenous athletes across the Hunter region.
