THERE is a photo from last Christmas, when Michael Jones propped himself on his father’s knee in a candid moment. That was Michael to a T, dad Trevor Jones said, 18 years old and still lovable and lots of fun.
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Trevor said his son was just a good kid and a great sportsman. He had earned a huge range of trophies across many different sporting fields.
Michael’s life was suddenly cut short on Thursday evening. So healthy and active, Michael had seemed fine on Thursday morning. That night he was gone.
Michael was a popular student, almost finished year 12 at Ballarat High School, and loved his sport. He coached gymnastics at YMCA Ballarat and loved working with children, helping them achieve their potential and have fun. This week he was to start getting paid.
Playing soccer was Michael’s big love – futsal and the traditional game. Ballarat Futsal Centre manager Corey Smith coached Michael in the outdoor format but said Michael was also highly talented indoors, playing with Miners Rest Revolution in the centre’s league one and stepping up to fill in for premier division.
“Michael was a vibrant young man and a valued member of the futsal community, it goes without saying that his presence will be missed by all,” Mr Smith said.
Michael played lawn bowls with his father at Webbcona. He played a little Australian Rules football with Sebastopol. He had been planning to try his game at basketball in the summer.
Naturally talented in any sporting venture, Michael always thrived with a new challenge. His gymnastics background led him to complex urban trend parkour.
YMCA Ballarat acting chief executive officer Stephen Bendle said Michael’s was so well-liked at the centre as a staff member and gymnast.
Ballarat High School principal Gary Palmer said students and staff were shocked. The school is working with the Jones’ church group and school chaplain for counselling.
“Michael’s been with us four years and really enjoyed his time at our school, especially the specialist sports program. He was a talented soccer player,” Mr Palmer said. “He was completing year 12 and had a full-time job lined up for when he finished. He was well-liked and a well-respected young man...he had his pathway planned.”
Michael Jones lived his life to the fullest.
