I would like to nominate Meredith Young for the Frank McHugh Memorial Award. Although Meredith (Merry) is very shy of anyone singing her praises, her family and I feel she would be a worthy recipient of this Award, owing to her many achievements.

Merry has done very well at school over the years, academically, socially and physically. Like all short-statured people this has not been easy for her, however she has always believed she is equal, and not been intimidated by her stature. 

In primary school she played in the school netball and softball teams. In Year 8 (Form 2) at high school she played in the junior school softball team and in the hockey team. This is quite a feat considering the size of her peers and that her school has a student population of approximately 900. In this year, she tried out for the swimming squad representing her school, and although she came third in the trials she missed a place on the team. 

Outside of school, Merry plays softball with a local club, Southmoor, in summer and learns jazz ballet in winter. In 1990, 91 and 92, Merry was selected in the Moorabbin Association representative softball teams in the under 12 and under 14 sides, which played in the Victorian Softball Championships. 

Because of the pleasure Merry has received from the sport, in 1992 Merry decide to give something back, and together with a friend she began coaching a team of junior softballers girls aged 8 to 11 years. Merry has continued coaching softball and currently holds her A.S.F. coaching accreditation.  

Merry has played in the U16 and last season the U19 Moorabbin Representative Softball teams in the Victorian Championships. Last season they were victorious winning the C grade shield. She played Open A grade division 2 softball in the South Eastern Regional League last season also, this being with and against women twice her size. Merry is currently playing Open Grade netball in local competition.

She is in Year 11 at Cheltenham Secondary College and last year travelled to South Australia for an annual exchange with Windsor Gardens High and played in the softball, hockey and basketball teams.

I think Merrys extensive involvement with sport shows a great example of community activity, creating an acceptance of those who are different.

Rosemary Hobbs                                                                                      
 

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