A talented squash player riding a wave of success has been recognised at council’s October meeting.
Mia Sundernathan – who competed recently at the 2023 Squash Australian Junior Championships in Brisbane – received a Young Achiever Scheme grant.
The grant helped the teenager with travel and playing costs associated with attending the championships.
Mia was a strong competitor at an individual level, winning one out of four matches.
At the team level it was a history-making event for Victoria, which after 34 years won the team event and Mia was fortunate to be a part of it.
At just 12 years old, Mia is a natural at the sport and first picked up a racket in April last year.
Her dad plays socially and previous to joining the Wodonga Squash and Racquetball Club, Mia had only been on a court three times.
Mia’s mum, Tulika, said her family and club were proud of her achievement.
“It was a big experience, she gave a good fight and even though she lost she gave her best and contributed towards the team win,” she said.
Mia already has silver and bronze wins under her belt after competing at club events around the Murray region.
She plays twice a week in Wodonga, attends a coaching program on Saturdays and also plays at the Commercial Club Albury and the SS and A Club.
In March, Mia finished fourth in the Australian Open – the most prestigious singles squash tournament that attracts players from nations around the world.
She is currently ranked 11 in Australia and number one in Victoria in her age group.
The Young Achiever Scheme recognises and supports young people (under 25) who display an outstanding commitment or achievement in their chosen field.
The scheme provides financial assistance to individuals or groups of young people to participate, develop skills, compete, perform or represent Wodonga in their chosen endeavour at a local, state, national or international level.
There are six categories:
- Arts, performance, music and dance;
- Sport and recreation;
- Community leadership;
- Education and training;
- Cultural; and
- Agricultural, environmental and sustainability.
Applications can be found here.