Technology the key in Willis' national medal bid

For 12-year-old discus thrower William Willis, it was the lack of access to an elite coach that posed a major obstacle to achieving his goals, so he got creative.

Thanks to the magic of technology, Willis has entered into a coaching arrangement with Victoria-based Brett Hardeman.

Training in Wollongong, Willis films his throws and sends them off to his coach for feedback, while the pair also communicate via video calls to enable Hardeman to provide real-time advice during the sessions.

While Willis acknowledges the unique setup has its challenges, he said it's one that has allowed him to significantly improve his results.

"It's very hard," Willis said. "But he's very supportive of me. I enjoy making trips to Melbourne and we do a lot over the phone, it's a good way of communicating.

"His coaching has been very helpful, I've been able to increase my throws by another 10 metres with him."

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Willis' next big challenge comes on Thursday when he contests the Australian Primary School Athletics Championships in Darwin.

The competition will mark the achievement of a long-term goal for Willis and he's hoping to crack the 40m barrier at the event.

"I was really excited to be selected, I never thought it would happen, it's taken a lot of hard work.

"I'm a bit nervous, but I also get a lot of confidence from my coach. I want to come top 10 and throw a personal best. I'm aiming for 40m, I've thrown it at training, but not in competition, so I'm confident I can do it."

The Illawarra will be well-represented at the championships, with nine athletes from the region set to compete in Darwin.

The competition kicks off on Thursday afternoon, with all sessions run in the twilight and early evening to avoid the 30 degree temperatures.

St Joseph's Bulli student Emily Benefiel is set to contest the 10 year old girls high jump, with Fairy Meadow's Keira Bostanci featuring in the 11 year old girls high jump.

Kiama's Coco Butcher will race for gold in the sprint events, with Gerringong sprinter Asher Chapman and Berry student Gabriel Lombardi also preparing to compete in Darwin.

Illawarra Grammar School student Chelsy Wayne is set to contest the 12 year old girls discus.

The Illawarra's multi class athletes will also compete for national medals, with Shell Cove's Telaya Blacksmith and Oak Flats' Charlize Colwell entered in the 12 year old girls multi class events.

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