Young’s Matthew “Chewy” Knight has been given the opportunity of a lifetime and will head to Canada in the coming months for an athletics tour.
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The Year 11 Young High School student is a keen sportsman, having represented his school in touch football and is a member of the Young Saints AFL Club’s Under 18s.
Last year Chewy (pictured) represented his school at the State Athletics Carnival held at Homebush - an extraordinary achievement as he only began competing seriously at the start of 2014.
Despite not progressing from the state carnival Chewy was recognised by Sports Travel Australia scouts for his consistency, attitude and continuous improvement throughout the process.
He will now prepare to join 60 high school aged athletes from the East Coast in heading to Canada for the 19-day tour to begin on June 24.
“I’m really excited for the chance to go overseas and compete,” Chewy said.
“It’s still a bit surreal - a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
During the tour Chewy will compete in the 100m sprint at carnivals in the Canadian Province of British Columbia, firstly at the Jack Brow meet in Kelowna, followed by another in Trevor Craven meet in Vancouver.
The tour group will also be treated to sightseeing which will include a visit to Hollywood and the Universal Studios.
But the opportunity doesn't come without a price, and Chewy’s mother, Lee, is looking to the generous community of Young to help Chewy’s dream come true.
“We had a financial and emotional blow to our family in March - my grandson passed away from cot death - so it’s put all our organising behind the eight ball as well as totally wiping me out...” Lee said.
Last Friday the family had $1500 in the tour account, but will require another $6500 to cover the cost of the tour.
“We’re asking local businesses, sporting groups and individuals for their support in either sponsoring Chewy or donating money toward the tour,” Lee said.
“He is having his team tracksuit embroidered with the names or logos of businesses at a small cost of $40.”
If you’d like more information in helping the promising young athlete get to Canada contact Lee on 0427 665 447 or via email at leeh0277@icloud.com
Any money raised exceeding the cost of the trip it will be donated to SIDS 4 Kids.
Bank details: Matthew Knight. BSB 112-879. Acct no - 487219097
