The upcoming Blacktown City Sports Awards Gala Presentation Night on Friday, February 24, 2006, at Rooty Hill RSL Club will feature Olympian Chris Fydler as guest speaker, one of Australia's most successful Swimming athletes.

The presentation of the 23^rd Blacktown City Sports Awards will see the announcement of the Awards 5 categories; Coach of the Year, Team of the Year, Under 12 Encouragement Award, Sports Administrator of the Year and the 2005 Sportsperson of the Year Award.

Chris Fydler a former member of the Australian Swim Team for an incredible 12 years including 4 as Captain, will speak to the Award nominees and guests at the presentation evening about his lengthy sports career and how he achieved his personal best in swimming.

Chris has represented Australia at 3 Olympic Games, 3 World Championships and 3 Commonwealth Games and is one of swimming's enduring champions.

The 2005 Sports Awards season received 37 nominations; 4 for Coach of the Year, 9 for the Team of the Year, 9 nominees for the Under 12 Encouragement Award, 3 nominees for the Sports Administrator of the Year Award and 12 nominations for the 2005 Sportsperson of the Year Award.

Blacktown City Council's Sports Awards Program has been operating since 1983, recognising our City's sports men, women, boys and girls. It involves people of all ages and levels of competition and promotes sports and sporting clubs within the community. The 2005 Sports Person of the Year winner will take home prize money of $2500.00 as well as hold the prestigious title for the next 12 months.

Tickets to the Gala Presentation will be available from Council in early February. Keep an eye out in your local newspapers for ticket prices and details or telephone Council for further information.