ABBY Watts was looking forward to a hectic year of sport.
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A talented and versatile athlete, Abby had gained selection in the NSW Blues under 15 girls hockey side to play in the Australian Championships later this month. She was named in the squad following trials held in Moorbank and Wollongong in early February.
The Taree High School student had also been selected in the Hunter under 15 team to play in the Combined High Schools State championship. For good measure Abby had also earned a spot in the Hunter under 15 touch football team, also to play in the State CHS titles.
For these efforts Abby has been named the Manning River Times-Iguana Sportstar of the Week, earning a $50 voucher from long term supporter, Iguana.
However, Abby's elation at making the representative teams has turned to frustration.
All hockey championships have been cancelled, while the touch football titles are also on hold because of the coronavirus crisis.
Abby had been named at centre half for the NSW under 15 Blues. She's been a regular member of NSW teams since her public school days.
Last year she was a member of the Manning under 18s side beaten in the State division two final played in Taree.
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Abby was the only Manning player named in the Hunter under 15 touch football team. Here she expected to play link. The team was named following trials held in Newcastle.
Abby's still hoping the State touch championships may go head later in the year.
Manning Hockey's competitions are also on hold. Officials are aiming for a May 2 start although that's looking increasingly unlikely.
Abby was to play with Town in the division one Manning women's competition, where she was to team with her sister, Lara. Town is the defending premier and would have been shooting for a third successive title this season.
Abby would also be a member of Taree High's open girls side looking to win a fourth successive State CHS championship later this year. However, it's not known if this will go ahead. At least Abby will still be at school in 2021 so she'll get another shot.
At various times Abby has made it to State level for hockey, touch, cricket, athletics and cross country. In 2017 and when attending Moorland Public School she won the Peter Moore Trophy for the Hunter PSSA Sportsgirl of the Year when she represented the region in five sports.
Hockey was always her favourite, although touch footy has gained a bit of traction in recent years.
"But as long as she's running around playing sport, Abby doesn't care that much what she plays,'' her mum, Janine smiled.