In the realm of lawn bowls, it is rare to envision a 12-year-old player. However, Harry Coleman, a young and ambitious individual, is defying expectations and emerging as a representative of the sport’s evolving generation. The past decade has witnessed a remarkable 25 percent increase in junior participants in lawn bowls, with approximately 31,000 students engaged in school programs in 2021. As the sport, which made its debut in the Commonwealth Games as early as 1930, progresses, it becomes evident that age is no longer a barrier.

Having been inspired by his parents’ involvement in lawn bowls, Coleman expressed a keen interest in trying the sport at a tender age of seven. As he honed his skills, he found himself pitted against more experienced opponents, an invaluable learning experience that contributed significantly to his development. Reflecting on these challenges, Coleman appreciates the growth and respect he has gained by competing against seasoned players. The influence of his parents, who served as his first coach and pairs partner, helped him grasp the fundamentals of the game. Presently, Coleman is a member of the Geelong Giants U18 Squad, under the guidance of coach Matt Flapper, a Commonwealth Games alumnus who won a bronze medal in the 2014 Glasgow Games. Flapper’s mentorship plays a pivotal role in Coleman’s journey, as he aspires to represent his country wearing the green and gold.

While Coleman’s ultimate dream lies in competing at the Commonwealth Games, he also sets his sights on representing his region, state, and country in various other competitions. His immediate objectives include clinching the U18 state title and a club championship. Undeterred in his pursuit, Coleman has made substantial strides toward his goals, evident in his recent triumph in the Geelong Bowls Region U18 Singles event. This victory demonstrates his growth, especially after finishing as the runner-up in the same competition for two consecutive years. In his quest for improvement, Coleman has relocated to the City of Geelong Bowl’s Club, where he faces formidable opponents in prestigious competitions like the Geelong Bowls Region Representative and U18 Victorian State Championships. Furthermore, he is vying for a spot in the U18 Victorian Boy’s Squad, hoping to represent Victoria once again at the Under 18 National Championships.

Recognizing his accomplishments and contributions to the community, Coleman was honored with the Golden Plains Shire Citizen Recognition Award. His local council commended him for his outstanding dedication and involvement as a young individual. Despite his numerous achievements, Coleman remains grounded and adheres to a simple philosophy of treating everyone as equals, regardless of age or experience. This perspective underscores his emerging maturity and highlights his potential as a remarkable player in the sport.

To support and celebrate emerging talents like Coleman, Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) has made it a priority to identify and nurture the next generation of Australian sports stars. Throughout 2023, CGA will honor an athlete each month as the Commonwealth Games Australia Emerging Athlete of the Month, awarding them a $500 gift certificate to aid their training expenses. Three finalists from the monthly winners will receive an invitation to the 2024 Commonwealth Games Australia Presidents Function, where one will be bestowed with the title of Commonwealth Games Australia Emerging Athlete of the Year. Finally, the winner, chosen by the Awards Sub Committee, will receive a $5000 CGA scholarship to support their sporting endeavors.

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Photo Courtesy Commonwealth Games Australia

Courtesy Commonwealth Games Australia