Description
Hi, my name is Kienan McCollum and I am a year 12 student. I am lucky enough to be competing in the Youth Trans Tasman series in Australia in January 2020.
I am very proud to be given this opportunity to represent my country.
I first made a NZ representative team in 2017 and was awarded MVP for the tour in 2018. I then made the talent identification camp and was also awarded MVP of the camp. This year, I have been given another amazing opportunity to wear the silver fern on my chest.
I have worked so hard over the last few years to gain a spot in this team and I am very keen to embrace this amazing opportunity.
From a young age I have loved being active and participating in different sporting codes; rugby, basketball and volleyball, where I was lucky enough to represent my province Bay of Plenty at the New Zealand volleyball nationals in 2018. And of course we can’t forget the sport I’m very passionate about – touch!
I started playing touch when I was 8 years old and I have made a province team every year and really enjoy competing at national tournaments. In 2018, our under 18s mixed grade team were lucky enough to finish in first place and brought home the gold. I also played in the under 21s mixed team where we placed second.
I believe that I have reached where I am today due to the ongoing support and belief from family, friends, amazing coaches and managers. My coaches have always had my best interests at heart, pushing me when needed and also knowing to be careful not to push me too hard as I am still a young athlete with huge potential. My mother is extremely supportive, encouraging and always helps to fund and fundraise for opportunities like these.
I would really appreciate any financial assistance in helping me live my dream of wearing that silver fern at the Youth Trans Tasman series in NSW, Australia in 2020. I am training hard and am very excited about this opportunity.
