Nicole Simmonds overjoyed with Athletics Community Hero NT award

Athletics Northern Territory took to social media on May 22 to name Nicole Simmonds as the Coles Athletics Community Hero of the Northern Territory.

After a rigorous voting process, Nicole came out on top to claim the award and said she couldn't be more thankful.

"It makes me feel appreciated, it's nice. Thank you very much to everyone who nominated or voted for me," she said.

"Nicole's efforts are paramount to the participation and success of our junior athletes and her generosity is a key factor in their development," Athletics Northern Territory wrote on their social media.

"We thank Nicole for her work in the community, and this award serves as recognition of her outstanding commitment to athletics in the Northern Territory."

Nicole is currently serving her ninth year as the Katherine Athletics Club president and coach, and is also the track and field coach for School Sport Northern Territory.

When asked why she has remained in those roles for some time, she revealed it is largely due to her passion for seeing athletes thrive.

"I love athletics," she said.

"We've had our ups and downs in numbers, but we have kids compete at Nationals every year. It's nice to see kids go further and get to that level of competition.

"I also have a very good committee behind me who make things easier."

For anyone interested in joining the family-orientated Katherine Athletics Club, visit the NT Athletics's website or email katherineathletics@gmail.com.

"Our youngest member is three-years-old and our oldest competitor is 63-years-old so it's a club for the whole family," Nicole said.