Young Russell Island lawn bowler Zayah Morgan has done it again.
After being selected to represent Queensland, she has now gone on to win her first national lawn bowls title.
At the recent National Junior Lawn Bowls Championship held at Capalaba over the school holidays, Zayah had a wonderful four days playing against all states and territories.
She won Gold in the fours and Bronze in the triples.
The Queensland girls won the female trophy and the State came second overall, winning the silver.
Zayah’s mother, Debra Morgan, told The Friendly Bay Islander: “I cannot believe how well she has played.”
In the holidays she had 12 days of bowls representing Queensland, her club and herself.
Zayah’s team also won the division and zone finals, and will play off for higher honours at Tweed Heads in November.
Who would have guessed having the family home burn down and having a set of bowls ‘donated’ as part of many items that were donated after that family disaster just a couple of years ago, could lead to an exciting sporting career.
We have documented Zayah’s story before but the transition in her life has been extraordinary.
Now 14 years of age, Zayah has become more confident and playing lawn bowls at this level has given her some ‘life goals’.
“The ultimate would be to represent Australia at the highest level.
“I would love to play bowls for my country at a future Commonwealth Games,” Zayah said.
The other major change to her life is that she has now made friends right around the country.
“It has totally changed my life,” she added.
Not only that, but local island bowlers are now asking Zayah for ‘a few tips’.
All are immensely proud of her achievements and are watching her progress with great interest.
Go Zayah!
• Zayah and her trophies