Glory awaits our sporting champions

The South West has always been gifted with some of the finest athletes in Australia, who routinely sweep all before them at regional, State, national and international competition.

But who will add their name into glory at tomorrow night’s 2019 AJ (Tood) Buswell South Western Times Sports Star of the Year ceremony?

One of the firm favourites will be accomplished basketballer Cam Gliddon, who continues to shine with the Brisbane Bullets at NBL level.

Sustained success at club level has resulted in more Boomers appearances and in an Olympic year, he may be able to add another award to his growing resume.

Then of course, there is Damian Lane, who is regarded by many as the best jockey in Australia right now.

A meticulous hoop who began his season riding in Bunbury, Boyanup-raised Lane headed to Japan, despite speaking little Japanese.

However with the help of his translator and a will to never give in, he achieved feature success on a regular basis with support from noble owners who placed unrivalled faith in his ability.

This trend continued for him after returning to Australia for the spring carnival.

Or could South Bunbury Football Club’s Ebony Bilcich write yet another chapter in her incredible rise in women’s football?

The daughter of East Fremantle club legend Stephen, who coaches the Tigers at league level, Bilcich managed to play only eight matches during the regular season, due to her SBL commitments with the Printsync South West Slammers.

But Bilcich, who takes after her father in both personality and skill, notched up enough votes to tie for the Nola Marino Medal with Fleur Parker. All 12 finalists are worthy of their selection and in many ways, choosing a winner will be very difficult.