A small story in last week’s edition of MyCity Logan (February 15-21) caught my eye.
It was about a young man who’d won his category at the Australian Open.
I watched lots of the Australian Open, and I didn’t see one mention by the commentators of Hunter Thompson, nor did I hear about the success of Rhylee Jackson.
They rabbit on ad nauseum about the success of Dylan Alcott who is in my view one of the most deserving winners of Australian of the Year that I can remember.
Driven by the bandwagon and a tidal wave of popularity, the commentators shed tears and admiration for Alcott, reminding people that only five years ago he was playing on outside courts to little more than his own family.
There’s nothing wrong with that, but why don’t these so-called experts dip into their internal knowledge to ensure that people like Hunter and Rhylee are brought equally into the limelight.
They too are living in a world that is still ignited by stigma and unfair judgement.
All it would take from the host station would be a few minutes of footage from one of their games, along with some recognition of the many hours these young people put into their game.
Instead of being the sheep that follow a wave of popular sentiment, they could take it upon themselves to be the leaders in supporting young talent.
“Come ooooonnnn!” Lleyton Hewitt, this was your time to shine. But you preferred sharing tales of the past with your fellow commentary team than shining a spotlight on the future.
Todd Woodbridge, Sam Groth and others, get your act together. It’s worth it.
Who knows? Hunter’s dream to play in front of big crowds might just come true.
S Smith,
Woodridge.
