Rising Stars Shine After Record Interest In Sports Awards

An emerging rugby league talent and a prodigious boxer following in her champion father's footsteps were among the achievers honoured at the Blacktown City Sports Awards.

Patrician Brothers College Blacktown rugby league captain Jacob Halangahu claimed Sportsperson of the Year at the awards at West HQ in Rooty Hill on Saturday after standout performances for his school and Australian Schoolboys team.

Glenwood boxer and Australian youth representative Elisha Kumar won Junior Female Sportsperson of the Year, while gymnast Nicolas Diaz Ballas was Junior Male Sportsperson of the Year.

The trio were among players, officials and volunteers recognised before hundreds of people from Blacktown City's sporting community.

There were a record 349 nominations for the awards, which have been held since 1983.

Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting and former Australian netball captain Liz Ellis congratulated winners on the night.

"There is so much sporting talent in Blacktown City and I am pleased that Council can honour the achievements of players, coaches, volunteers and officials," Mayor Bunting said.

"We want to keep our community active and healthy, as well as inspire people to pursue their sporting dreams.

"Well done to all the winners and everyone who was nominated.

"I want to give a special thank you to our volunteers and officials. We would not have organised sport if it weren't for you."

In addition to the awards, Council is supporting community sport through exciting plans to upgrade major venues.

New pools are proposed for Blacktown Aquatic Centre and Mount Druitt Swimming Centre as part of the biggest revamps in their histories.

The Blacktown Disability Sports Centre at Blacktown International Sports Park is due to open later this year, as is the expanded Kevin Betts Stadium at Mount Druitt.

The proposed expansion of the Mount Druitt Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) will also provide for a range of sports.

Full list of winners: