Hockey player an inspiration

Vaneezeh Kalim , a Westside Wolves hockey player, was named the winner of the inspirational achievement girls’ category award.

The 14 year old was nominated by Pakistanis in Australia chairman Dr Zarrin Seema Siddiqui for her attitude and success in the sport, which has inspired other Pakistani girls and families, in particular those who are reluctant to let their daughters participate in similar form of sports.

Vaneezeh and her family arrived in WA in 2003, when the young girl immediately fell in love with hockey.

She now plays at left half back for the Shenton Park team and had a leading role in their triumph at the 2008 State Championship in Bunbury.

‘I want to definitely continue playing,’ Vaneezeh said.

‘When I grow older I want to play for the Australian team.

‘I watched the Hockeyroos at the London Olympics and would love to be part of that one day.’

About 120 children, parents and supporters attended the awards on Tuesday night .

Community Newspaper Group editor-in-chief Greg Thomson paid tribute to parents and other adult helpers for the support they offer children in sport ” running them to and from training and competitions, participating in local club administration and coaching tasks, and sharing the inevitable highs and lows.

‘The aim of the awards was to recognise and reward young people who inspire others through their achievement or participation in their chosen sport or endeavour, to shine the spotlight on children whose endeavours might otherwise go unnoticed,’ he said.

‘We know that many elite sportsmen and women are recognised as juniors, but we wanted to uncover the inspiring real stories of real people whose achievement in sport ” no matter at what level of competition ” could inspire others into pursing, healthy active sporting lives.’

Each winner received $1000 and a glass trophy, while the runner-up in each category received $500 and an HBF teddy bear.