Illawarra Academy of Sport profile: Josh Hayes

Club: Wollongong

Why did you apply for an IAS scholarship? 

I applied for an IAS scholarship because I am passionate about golf and would love to continue to develop to be the very best I can at the game. 

The IAS has the best coaches and their knowledge will be very valuable in helping me to fine-tune my game and strive for greatness.

Who’s your favourite professional athlete and why? 

My favourite professional athlete is golfer Jason Day. He is truly inspirational! 

Not only is Jason one of the best golfers in the world, he is level headed, hardworking, dedicated to his sport, gives back to society and most importantly he values the love of his family and those around him.

If you weren’t playing this sport what would you be doing and why? 

If I wasn't playing golf I would be playing cricket or tennis.  I love all kinds of sport and I love being outdoors.

How would you describe yourself in one sentence?

A loyal, dedicated and hard-working person.

What are your plans beyond school?    

My plans beyond school are undecided at this stage. 

I would love to see how far I can go with my golf and academically I hope to achieve high so that I have many opportunities available to me.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?      

If I could live anywhere in the world I would live opposite a golf course or beach.

What do you do in your free time?        

When I am not training or playing golf I love to go fishing.

There is nothing better than being outdoors in nature and catching a fish! 

I love to go on holidays with my family to Noosa each year where we spend every day fishing on the river and enjoying the sun and sand.

What is your favourite subject at school?

At school I have many favourite subjects. 

My two equally favourite subjects are Maths and Science. 

This year in the University of NSW Maths Test I received a Distinction, placing in the top 5 per cent of Australia.

In Science this year I have won three awards, University of NSW Science Test, NSW Young Scientist Award and a BHP Billiton Science and Engineering Award.

What is your greatest achievement in your sport so far?             

My greatest achievement in sport so far was when I represented my school at the NSW Catholic Primary Schools Golf Tournament and I ended up winning the tournament.

When did you start playing golf and how did you get started? 

I started playing golf four years ago when I was 8. 

My uncle Geoffrey, who is a board member of Wollongong Golf Club, took me down to the Club to participate in a golf clinic that the club was running. 

Instantly I fell in love with the game and since that day I have spent every spare moment I can practising and playing golf.