THE Swan Hill Discoveries athletic teams dominated to claim multiple trophies last week in Portland at the Tri State Games, an annual sporting event for people with a disability.
Due to the overwhelming numbers of participants, the Swan Hill team was divided in two to compete as the Sharks and the Tigers against teams from Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
Together, they earned the Community Inclusion Award for the second year in a row.
Competing in track, field, indoor, team and pool sports throughout the week, every athlete placed in at least one event, and many earned multiple medals.
Darryn Stevenson collected the trophy for Best Male Athlete for his efforts across the tournament after winning four gold and two silver medals, which accounted for every event he competed in.
Joanne Stevenson took out the Sportsmanship Award for her extending her encouragement and support to her teammates and her competitors throughout the week.
“It feels great to get recognition for my sportsmanship, because I like encouraging the others and helping them have a good time,” she said.
The Sharks took out third for Overall Athletics.
Swan Hill Discoveries manager Jo O’Bree said it was rewarding to see all the athletes grow in confidence over the week.
“It was a golden year for our team, which comes down to the participants backing and cheering each other on and having fun together in their down time,” she said.
“It was the first trip away with us for a few of the participants, but they all represented the region so well and came together as a team.
“A lot of our athletes competed in a higher division than they did last year and still did well and placed in their events.
“I’m proud they competed so well, but they also showed such good sportsmanship in encouraging and supporting each other.”
