This year it was Jessica McInerney who caught the eye of the Young Shire Council’s community recognition committee who bestowed her with Young’s Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award. 

Jessica was presented with her award by Councillor Brian Ingram at the Australia Day ceremony held in Carrington Park on Monday.

“It’s a big honour. I didn’t expect it, considering I’ve only been here for four years. It really is an honour, especially to be given it in such a small town when you’ve got so many people who do so much,” she said.

Over those four years McInerney has devoted her services to sport in Young and, in doing so, has led by example.

“Her services to sport in Young are absolutely outstanding,” deputy mayor Ben Cooper said.

“As a player she demonstrates great sportsmanship as a role model for women to get involved in sport, as a coach she’s enthusiastic, supporting and encouraging of people of all abilities to have a go.”

McInerney is currently a member of the Young League Tag squad, the Cherryettes, has played a strong role in the development of the Touch Football town competition, as well as being on a number of committees over the years.

“She gives back to local sports as a referee and administrator,” Cr Cooper said.

“And it’s just so good to see females right in the thick of the action organising local sporting competitions. 

'She’s just been a really good role model for young girls to get involved in sport - she just stands out as a role model for people in Young, particularly young girls to get in and have fun.”

Taking out the Junior Sportsperson of the Year award was 17-year-old Matt Murray who, like McInerney, gives back to Young’s sporting community in spades.

According to Cr Cooper the talented sports person was an obvious candidate due to his achievements in numerous sports and his willingness to use his skills to benefit the community.

“It is something we should be proud of and we should acknowledge,” Cr Cooper said.

“Matt is an exceptional all-round sportsperson, extremely talented football player - playing rugby league, union and touch football - he has represented the Riverina in tennis, athletics, touch football and rugby league, he won the Weissel Medal in 2014 as Best and Fairest in the Under 18s for Group 9, is currently trialing in the Under 18s Canberra Raiders squad, he played in the Young High School Combined High Schools touch team which was eighth in NSW, and again he is someone who gives back to the local sporting community.

Murray referees for the Young Cherrypickers and for the town touch football competition, and he’s also a coach for the junior touch football teams.

“They just absolutely adore him, he’s got an excellent rapport with them,” Cr Cooper said.

“He’s an exceptional role model with those kids, they love going to his coaching sessions with him and he’s very talented in passing on the skills. He’s just a really caring, supportive coach.”

Murray said he was honoured to be considered for, let alone receive the award.

“I was humbled and shocked and grateful to be presented with the award,” he said.