Australian Paralympic Committee Acting CEO Jason Hellwig today extended his congratulations to swimmer Matthew Cowdrey after the 19-year-old Paralympian added another accolade to his growing resume.
Cowdrey was this week named as South Australia's representative for the 2009 Young Australian of the Year of the Award to be announced in Canberra on Australia Day.
It continues a memorable year for the Adelaide teenager, who won five gold and three silver medals at the Paralympic Games earlier this year in Beijing.
"On behalf of the Australian Paralympic Committee, I congratulate Matthew on his achievements. I think it is very fitting that he be named Young South Australian of the Year," Mr Hellwig said.
"Not only is Matthew a tremendous athlete, he is also an outstanding young man, team member and leader of others."
"It is a great honour to be named Young South Australian of the Year."
Cowdrey accepted the honour at a gala function on Wednesday night, and was delighted to be recognised.
"It is a real thrill to be named Young South Australian of the Year," Mr Cowdrey said.
"The Beijing Games were really a dream come true and awards like this just put the icing on the cake."
Two of Cowdrey's 2008 Australian Paralympic team-mates are also nominated for Young Australian of the Year honours in their respective States.
Sprinter Kelly Cartwright is one of four nominees in the Victoria with the winner to be announced on November 18, while wheelchair racer Kurt Fearnley is nominated in NSW. The NSW winners will be announced on November 27.
