Rockingham's sporting world honoured

Athletes from across Rockingham had the chance to shine last week as the City of Rockingham held its 18th Sports Star of the Year Awards ceremony.

More than 130 guests, including 33 finalists, filled the Gary Holland Community Centre last Thursday to acknowledge individual, club and volunteer sporting achievements.

The respected John Brown Memorial Award, named after a former editor of the _Sound Telegraph _for his love of reporting sport, was handed to swimmer Holly Barratt.

Barratt could not be at the award ceremony because she was competing at the State Championships.

Barratt impressed the judges with her efforts during the past two years.

The 26-year-old made a splash after taking a break from competitive swimming at 17.

Since making her comeback in 2012, Barratt has broken several State records, been selected for the Australian team at the World University Games 2013 in Russia and began racking up the medals.

This year she was selected for the Australasia A swimming team that competed in the US in July.

She returned with gold in the 200m freestyle event, 200m medley relay and 400m medley relay, and silver in the 50m freestyle.

Barratt said she was honoured to be chosen for the award out of so many deserving athletes in the region.

"It is really nice to be recognised as a sportsperson in Rockingham," she said.

With the short course nationals coming up in a month, Barratt said she would continue her training before celebrating with a well-deserved break.

She encouraged all young swimmers to keep chasing their goals.

"Just have determination and enjoy what you do," Barratt said.

Rockingham Stingrays Swimming Club head coach Will Scott said he was thrilled the City took the time to recognise and value sports, individuals and clubs in the region.

He said he was happy Barratt was recognised for her efforts.

"It highlights the hard work that she does," Scott said.

"It highlights that what she does doesn't go unnoticed.

"It is nice to know the community is involved and it shows her that there are a lot of people behind her that are interested to know what she's doing and interested to know where she is going."

City of Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels congratulated all winners on their outstanding performances both on and off the field.

Sports Star winners *

Club of the Year: *Rockingham Bowling Club

Team of the Year: *Rockingham Flames Women's Basketball Team

Senior Sportsperson: * Shannon McCann (Athletics)

Junior Sportsperson: *Ashlee Glands (Athletics)

Sportsperson With Disability: *Justin Bettes (Ten pin bowling)

Volunteer of the Year: *Garry Hart (Surf Lifesaving)

John Brown Memorial Award: * Holly Barratt (Swimming)