On Sunday afternoon I presented the first Matt Keogh Good Sport Award for 2018 to Jaeda Ritchie of the South Thornlie Redsox Tee-ball Club.

The Matt Keogh Good Sport Awards are for anyone under 18 years that demonstrates teamwork, fair play, respect, fairness and a sense of fellowship to either opponents or fellow teammates.

Aspects of our community get an unfair share of bad press. Like my Burt Volunteer Awards, the Matt Keogh Good Sport Awards are my way of highlighting positive aspects of our community, as well as encouraging positive sporting participation.

Jaeda has previously represented Bletchley Park primary school in the T20 Girls cricket competition, which they won and also took part in the Pacific School Games in Adelaide representing WA as part of the U12 Girls Hockey team, winning the bronze medal.

Not only has Jaeda been successful in her endeavours in Cricket and Hockey, her Tee-ball team, the South Thornlie Redsox overcame fierce competition from the Forest Lakes Magpies to take home the U13 Mixed cup 23 to12 on Sunday afternoon prior to me presenting her award.

Jaeda has displayed great sportsmanship and commitment to every team and sport she plays. It was my honour to present her with the first Matt Keogh Good Sport Award for 2018.