By LIAM TWOMEY
STEAMING in off the long run and bowling at serious speed is what it’s all about for rising star Jonah Koch.
The Werribee resident is coming off a summer to remember on the cricket field after he was selected to represent Victoria at the Under-15 National School Sport Australia Cricket Championships in Perth.
Koch played an integral part in the Victorian team notching up wins against Tasmania, ACT and the Northern Territory during the week long championships.
Victoria also pushed eventual champions Western Australia to the brink of defeat early in the tournament.
“I was pretty rapt with how I bowled over the tournament,” Koch said.
“It was really good seeing what all these other people could do around Australia and it was a really good experience. It has helped me develop a lot when I came back for the last couple of games.”
Pulling on the Big V jumper is nothing new for the 15-year-old who has established himself as one of the most exciting cricket prospects in the western suburbs.
Koch also represented Victoria at the National Junior Indoor Cricket Championships in Queensland.
After again producing a dominating tournament, he was selected in the 15-member 14 and Under Australian Squad.
“One of the kids I played with in outdoor cricket, plays it (indoor) as well,” Koch said.
“He invited me down and it all started from there.
“I will keep trying to develop and listen to what all the coaches say. Hopefully that will get me as far as possible down the track.”
For his outstanding sporting achievements Koch has been named this month’s Don Deeble Rising Star nominee.
The award is run by the Sunshine Western Region Sports Club in conjunction with the Star News Group.
Jonah will receive $1000 donated by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club and other prizes to assist in his future sporting goals.
The Don Deeble Rising Star Award recognises young athletes in the western suburbs who have achieved outstanding results at a state and national level.
To nominate someone for the Don Deeble award, please contact starsport@starnewsgroup.com.au or call 9933 4800.
