One of PCYC Innisfail’s shining lights is Shaz, a determined teenager whose inspirational journey has transformed adversity into opportunity.
Shaz is always brimming with boundless energy and an infectious smile, finding solace and purpose in PCYC’s Boxing After Dark and Drop In programs during challenging times in her personal life. She’s become a beloved and active participant and is now giving back to the community and becoming a leader herself.
Nervous on her first day of boxing, Shaz said Sgt Mick Maguire’s booming voice kept her in line, but over time Sgt Mick has become a big supporter and mentor to Shaz.
Shaz’s connection with PCYC began early, in Year 5, through PCYC’s Team Up program at Innisfail State School. Her engagement deepened in Year 6 with the Bluelights Blue Edge program, as well as her regular attendance at Boxing After Dark and Drop In sessions. It was during these Drop Ins that her talent and passion for gymnastics truly emerged.
This year marks another significant milestone for Shaz as she proudly joined PCYC’s Youth Leadership Team (YLT). Shaz has chosen to dedicate her volunteer hours towards achieving her Gymnastics Coach qualification. This will no doubt unlock a wealth of future possibilities, promising greater engagement, further education, and employment prospects within PCYC’s gymnastics programs.
Shaz is enjoying training to become a gymnastics coach and extending her abilities.
“My favourite part is teaching the younger kids and truly getting to know their individual personalities,” she said.
Shaz’s story is a powerful reminder that with resilience, the right support, and a place to nurture one’s talents, young people can not only overcome obstacles but also achieve their dreams.
The PCYC Innisfail community couldn’t be prouder of this remarkable young woman and eagerly anticipates all the incredible things she will accomplish.
Shaz recommends other young people Drop In to PCYC.
“Take the leap! You’re guaranteed to meet a lot of new faces and leave with unforgettable memories,” she said.
Around 370 young gymnasts flipped, tumbled, and cheered their way through a day of excitement and energy at PCYC Queensland’s annual gymnastics carnival, held on 14 June at PCYC Logan.
The fun, inclusive event for PCYC gymnasts of all ages and levels from 12 clubs across southeast Queensland focused on participation, encouragement, and team spirit, with a sprinkle of competition.
“It was such a fun event that really focused on teamwork, the great Gymnastics community we have here at PCYC, and having fun,” said Maree Calder, PCYC Queensland State Sport and Recreation Manager.
“While our gymnasts are immensely skilled and many are very dedicated to their sport – we also focus on the joy of moving your body and working as a team. Our carnival is a celebration of that.”
Events included routine displays, skill circuits, and fun challenges designed to highlight the gymnasts’ progress and enjoyment of the sport.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said the event was a huge success.
“While there was a competitive element and the skills on display were impressive, the focus on building confidence, having fun and community really made this event a standout,” he said.
“It was terrific to see so many athletes, families and friends supporting our gymnasts.
“We want to really embrace the fact that gymnastics is not just about perfect routines, but about participation, perseverance, and passion – and we saw a lot of that at this event.”
Throughout the day, awards were presented to recognise gymnasts of all levels.
Budding gymnasts from across the region showcased their skills earlier this month, with PCYC Dalby hosting its Regional Gymnastics Carnival that saw 80 gymnasts from PCYCs Dalby, Fernvale and South Burnett participating in an inclusive competition for all levels.
Foundation and Beginner gymnasts all walked away with a participation certificate and medal, and Intermediate and Advanced gymnasts were awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze on each apparatus and then received an overall medal depending on their scores.
This carnival was an example of how PCYC Queensland’s Gymnastics program is changing the face of a sport renowned as tough and high-stakes. It’s doing this simply by focusing on joy, health, and personal growth – with a little competitive spirit sprinkled in.
PCYC Dalby’s Club Coordinator Claire Gordon said the Dalby Regional Gymnastic Carnival allows recreational gymnasts the opportunity to have a competition experience without the same stress as an official competition.
“We want people to feel welcome and included, regardless of their skill level,” she said.
“It was absolutely fantastic to see our gymnasts of all levels trying their best and having fun while being able to have a go at a competitive event.
“We want everyone to feel that they belong at a PCYC gymnastics class whether or not they are interested in competing. It is an incredible way for young people to explore the amazing things their body can do, move it in a healthy, fun way, and connect with each other and our awesome coaches.”
