The Western Sydney Academy of Sport is expanding its programs to recognise lawn bowls as an up and coming sport in the region.

A not-for-profit organisation, the Academy provides high quality development opportunities for western Sydney’s pre-elite athletes. At present, it provides over 150 scholarships for talented young people across the sports of AFL, cycling, golf, netball, rugby league, slalom, softball and tennis.

However plans for 2010 include introducing a Lawn Bowls Program in consultation with Bowls NSW.

“Being involved in the Academy has many benefits, from our resources such as our links with Bowls NSW and the NSW Institute of Sport, to the specific skills training and the opportunities to enter competitions and intra-academy events,” said the Academy’s Sports Program Coordinator, Cristie Finlayson.

“There are also training camps, fitness testing and educational seminars from sport psychologists, nutritionists and guest coaches.”

The Academy’s Lawn Bowls Program is open to young bowls enthusiasts between the ages of 14 and 18 who meet specific selection criteria.

Criteria includes being a resident of western Sydney and being a member of a bowls club affiliated to the recognised State Sporting body within either Zones five, 10 or 12.

Nomination forms to receive an Academy Scholarship into the Lawn Bowls Program can be obtained by contacting the Academy on 4725 6466 or by visiting the website at www.wsas.com.au.
 
Nominations close Friday, February 19, with the Program to be implemented from March through to October.