Aspiring young athletes from South-West Sydney are participating in trials to join Eagle Vale High School’s selective sports stream, fulfilling a promise by the Minns Labor Government to establish a sports high school in the Macarthur region.
Trials have begun for students entering the school’s Talented Sports Programs (TSP), with the first intake set for 2025. Over 20 students will trial for the Year 7 basketball program, and 70 competed earlier for the Year 7 rugby league program. Further trials for cricket and Year 9 basketball will occur in Term 3. Successful basketball students will be trained by former international player Adrianne Gilbert.
“Our region is home to some amazing athletes and to have an opportunity like this close to home will be invaluable for many of them,” Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Early Learning and Parliamentary Secretary for Western Sydney Greg Warren said.
“We look forward to welcoming our future TSP students next year and supporting them through their sporting and academic journey,” Eagle Vale High School’s Principal Craig Butler said.
The sports stream supports the Macarthur region’s growing population, saving students from long commutes. Several local and national sports organizations support the school, and formal partnerships are in development. The Government is also planning facility upgrades, including a new multi-purpose hall and sports facilities, as part of a $3.6 billion investment in Western Sydney schools in the 2024-25 Budget.
Government officials and local representatives expressed excitement and support for the program, highlighting the importance of providing local opportunities for athletically talented students.
“With the Olympic Games just around the corner, it is exciting to see the next generation of sporting talent given an opportunity in NSW public schools,” Minister for Education and Early Learning and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said.
The initiative aims to nurture future sporting careers and support academic achievements, contributing to community development.
“I cannot wait to see the dividends this investment delivers for our strong local sporting community,” Member for Leppington Nathan Hagarty said.
