Queensland Firebirds’ training partner Ashleigh Ervin believes a Sport Australia Hall of Fame (SAHOF) scholarship will help her realise her full potential both on and off the court.
Ervin was one of 16 athletes announced as Tier 3 scholarship recipients for up-and-coming talent by SAHOF on Wednesday.
Under SAHOF’s 2023 Scholarship and Mentoring Program, the Tier 3 recipients receive a grand sum of $2500 plus support from the organisation and its esteemed member base for the next 15 months.
Defender Ervin, who was announced as one of four players to receive training partner contracts with the Firebirds for the 2023 Suncorp Super Netball season last week, was excited about the opportunities the scholarship would provide.
“I am extremely honoured to be accepted for this prestigious scholarship,” Ervin said.
“As a young athlete, I believe this program will help me greatly in my endeavour to become the strongest athlete I can possibly be.
“My goal is to go all the way, and I am extremely excited to be supported by this program for 2023.”
Ervin was the only netballer among SAHOF’s full list of 32 athletes named as scholarship holders across all tiers.
“Netball Australia would like to congratulate Ashleigh for being selected to be part of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame Scholarship and Mentoring Program,” Netball Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Kelly Ryan said.
“This is an extraordinary accomplishment for Ashleigh who has already achieved so much in the sport.
“Earlier this year she captained the Queensland 19 and Under team at the National Netball Championships, with her performance earning her selection to the Australian 19 and Under Squad.
“She was also elevated to the Queensland Firebirds list as a training partner for season 2022 after impressive performances with the Bond University Bull Sharks and Queensland Sapphires in 2021.
“Most importantly, Ashleigh is an incredible person on and off the court. We thank the SAHOF for providing this opportunity.”
Queensland Firebirds head coach Bec Bulley congratulated Ervin on receiving the scholarship.
“Ash is an extremely talented athlete,” Bulley said.
“I’m sure this scholarship and mentorship will go a long way in helping her realise her potential and achieve her netball and life goals.”
