ACADEMY CORNER

The Illawarra Academy of Sport president Brian Weir PSM along with Minister of Sport and Recreation Gabrielle Upton and numerous dignitaries and IAS sponsors formally recognised 156 graduating athletes from the class of 2013.

Among the guests was IAS graduate and cycling superstar Caleb Ewan, who provided an insight into the demands of professional sport while addressing the 300-plus guests.

Academy acting general manager Shannon Fraser said: "He is proud of the graduating class and looks forward to seeing great things from these athletes moving forward, especially Cameron Scott, this year's IAS Athlete of the Year and Tobin Family award winner."

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SCOTT CLAIMS ANOTHER TITLE

IAS cycling athlete Cameron Scott has topped off an impressive season by winning the IAS Athlete of the Year - The Tobin Family Award.

The Tobin award is presented to the athlete who has achieved at the highest level both on and off the field, or in this case the bike.

The Tobin award is sponsored by the Illawarra Mercury, which provides a $5000 scholarship to further assist the winner in pursuing sporting excellence.

Scott has won an impressive four national road and track cycling titles over the preceding 12 months as well as numerous state titles. Scott finished the 2013 national and state season with an unprecedented medal haul of 11 gold, one silver and two bronze.

Scott is a member of the NSWIS ETP (Emerging Talent Program) and takes every opportunity provided to him to expand his knowledge or improve his skills.

Scott has continued his level of excellence into 2014 having recently claimed the JM17 National Junior Track Series title.

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IAS SPORTS AWARD WINNERS

The IAS has recognised the talents of those athletes within the nine sports programs offered, and this year's sports athletes of the year include:

Billy McGuinness (cricket), Jack Kessel (golf), Callum Mackay (boys hockey), Grace Stewart (girls hockey), Bridget Mullany (cycling), Jessica Rosskelly (IAP-kayaking), Dylan Skinner (lawn bowls), Bailey Lamb (rugby union), Caitlin Williams (netball), Abby Tozer (triathlon).