APRIL 30, 2015: ALICIA Smith has a lifetime dream, and it’s about to be fulfilled even though she is just 12 years old.The Muay Thai martial artist has made it onto the Australian team to compete at the International Federation of Muay Thai Amateurs in Bangkok in August.I was happy to assist Alicia to pursue that dream by announcing that she is one of eight young sporting champions to be given an Australian Government Local Sporting Champions grant.The Local Sporting Champions program is designed to support young people between the ages of 12 and 18 who are participating in state, national and international level sporting championships.Alicia is to be congratulated on showing such dedication to her chosen sport at such a young age.She is currently the registered Australian Champion for 12 year old girls in the 36-39kg category, and after competing at the Muay Thai national championships on the Gold Coast, she was awarded a position on the Australian team to compete in Bangkok in August.Other young Mackay achievers who have been awarded a Local Sporting Champion grant are:Mitchell Wilson – TennisMontanah Best – HockeyKaitlin Plahn – BasketballBrianna Baker – Surf Life SavingSharney Wisewould – Baton TwirlingCassie Rutland-Adlam – SoftballChloe Brant – Surf Life SavingEach will receive $500 to assist with their costs when engaging in approved sporting events.Applications for the next round of funding close on June 30. To find out more go to www.ausport.gov.au  and choose the Participating in Sport link.