‘’Giving is planting seeds in someone else’s future, knowing you may never see the tree— but trusting it will grow.’’ 

Hi all,

My name is Andrew Maenda. 

As an aspiring professional sprinter from a low socioeconomic background, my journey in sports has never been easy. The financial barrier has always felt like the one thing standing between me and my full potential. Having no access to the support system required to elevate performance and sustain longevity in elite athletics, I have often found myself fighting against not only my competitors but also my circumstances. 

Despite this, I’ve set multiple State records, competed at the national level, and even represented the country, proving that raw talent, discipline, and determination can go a long way.

 A comment made by someone a year ago stayed with me; ‘’Natural talent can only take you so far.’’ At first, this comment confused me as I thought nothing could interrupt my momentum, it was all headed in the right direction ‘’ I was invincible’’ or so I thought….. as time passed, that statement began to feel authentic. 

Injury after injury, I constantly competed without being in peak shape — I was vulnerable, but still miraculously finished on the podium each year I had qualified for Nationals. It wasn’t until my biggest setback occurred, a week after returning home from the Youth Commonwealth Games, that I had to pause. A torn hamstring brought what was meant to be my domestic season to a sudden end before it even began. At 16, I was at a breakthrough moment in my career — it finally felt like things were falling into place. Instead, this injury would have me absent from the sport for 2 seasons and counting..

I now understand more than ever that sprinting success is built on far more than just ‘’sprint training’’. It involves many other factors such as recovery, strength work, physiotherapy, and many modes of support involved with elevating performance — the very things I never had access to. 

All generous donations, big or small, would go directly towards establishing a support team ahead of my off seasoning in June consisting of: A physiotherapist (for regular treatment) and consultation, Strength & Conditioning coaching fees and Pilates sessions, all in preparation for a hopeful 2026/2027 Athletics Season. Additionally, extra costs will be put towards competition levy/ flights and accommodation. 

The FOMO on Australia’s golden era of sprinting is building. 

Sincerely, 

Andrew Maenda