QAS Youfor2032 and Deadly Choices Team Up to Unearth Sporting Talent on Thursday Island

This year's visit witnessed remarkable growth, building on the inaugural visit in 2022, where approximately 20 aspiring athletes were tested. The exponential increase in participation speaks volumes about the passion and potential of the young sports enthusiasts on Thursday Island.

Troy Ayres, Executive Director of the QAS Youfor2032 Program, commented on the significance of the partnership, stating, "Our alliance with Deadly Choices is more than a partnership; it's a powerful catalyst championing the latent sporting talent in these remote communities. The surge in participation underscores the effectiveness of our combined efforts and highlights the untapped potential in Thursday Island. We are committed to nurturing this burgeoning talent and look forward to witnessing the heights these young athletes will undoubtedly attain in their respective sporting domains."

Beyond talent identification, the team also forged strong relationships with key community leaders, laying the groundwork for future talent identification and development opportunities. These connections will play a vital role in empowering the next generation of sports stars.

The visit uncovered athletes with exceptional potential across a wide range of sports, serving as promising signs for the future of our sports programs. The dedication and talent these young aspiring athletes display are inspiring and provide a glimpse into the stars of tomorrow.

Alex Roberts, QAS Talent Identification and Development Lead conducted the testing and expressed her admiration for the young athletes, "The sporting prowess we witnessed on Thursday Island was exceptional, transcending traditional boundaries. We identified promising talent across a spectrum of sports, including athletics, boxing, and rugby 7s, to name a few. These young athletes have shown potential and the passion, determination, and resilience that are the cornerstones of any successful sports career. I am confident that with our continued support and their dedication, we could see many of these names shining on a global platform in the near future."

The committed efforts of both QAS and Deadly Choices, coupled with the evident talent and dedication of the island's young athletes, signal a promising future for the participants and Australian sports. These initiatives serve as a testament to the rich sporting potential within remote communities and underscore the importance of consistent support and encouragement in transforming raw talent into world-class athletes. Indeed, the stars of Thursday Island are bright, and their future looks even brighter.