Cootamundra Public School principal Bill Godman, clearly proud of Bailey’s consistent effort and achievements throughout the year, says that she is more than deserving of the accolade.

 Bailey wasn’t expecting to win; she was even humbled by the nomination,

“It’s a really big achievement,” Bailey said.

“Sport’s a big part of my life and being able to achieve something like this, of this standard, it’s really exciting for me.”

Bailey is an exemplar of the fact that skills and physical capabilities are transferable between sports, as she was selected to represent the Riverina in hockey, cricket and soccer teams this year.

Hockey is her forte, having played since she was eight years old, and practising regularly on the tennis court at home with her dad she has harnessed her technique and continually improving essential skills.

Bailey’s dad and her other brother have been instrumental throughout her sporting career, and the whole household celebrated the award. 

“My dad couldn’t believe I’d won; he was so excited, he came home and said, ‘let’s celebrate!’ 

“We bought ginger beer. I know it’s not very big, but that’s what we do in our family.”

What precedes excellence in the sporting arena is a strong mentality, positive attitude and balanced approach and this rings true for Bailey.

While she’s focused and dedicated to training, when she arrives to play, she’s there to have fun and perform to her potential.

You may not know that Bailey is a dancer; practicing ballet, tap and contemporary dance since she was three years old. 

She says that dancing has laid a strong foundation for her sporting pursuits; equipping her with stamina, strength, coordination, balance, flexibility and agility.

Dance classes also place girls like Bailey in an environment where they can push their physical boundaries on an intrinsic level, working individually at each class for improvements.

Staff at Cootamundra Public have backed the Year 6 student’s sporting aspirations all the way and she is eternally grateful for the support.

“They’ve given me an immense amount of opportunities, they’ve always said there’s this is happening if you’d like to try out, they’ve donated a lot of money for supplies.”

Watch this space as this local girl will continue to pursue her sporting goals in the years to come.

With this award on the mantlepiece and confidence in her abilities Bailey is aiming high. She would like to play for women’s Australian hockey team once she’s of age, “My dad says it will take a lot of hard work, and I’m prepared to do that.”