Congratulations to Hurstville local and St George Cricket Junior Sam Konstas, who made his debut for the Australian Cricket Team at the Boxing Day Test.

As the 4th youngest Australian Test cricketer of all time - to the world, he is the next Ponting, Clarke or Smith. But to the St George community he is the 10-year-old kid with a dream of playing at Hurstville Oval.

The kid who always had a smile on his face, loved the game and embraced the challenge. Sam first started playing cricket at 8 years old for Kingsgrove Cricket Club.

Living just down the road from Hurstville Oval, Sam along with his twin brother Johnny and older brother Billy were either watching cricket, or in the nets training.

By 13, he was playing against grown men in grade cricket for St George District Cricket Club.

Sam's debut in Melbourne makes him the fifteenth player from St George to play for the Australian Test Cricket Team. For more than 125 years, the Club has been developing first-class players and coaches and is regarded as the most successful cricket club in the Sydney Grade Cricket Competition.

On behalf of the St George community, I want to thank St George Cricket Club and recognise the wonderful job they do in giving our kids a safe and enjoyable place to play cricket.

Over the past couple weeks, we have not only witnessed Sam's inspirational efforts, but we have seen the vital role sport plays throughout NSW.

It brings communities together by fostering a shared sense of identity and purpose.

For our children, watching sport or playing sport is vital in keeping them healthy, active and socially connected.

If there are any youngsters out there who have been inspired by Sam Konstas or are interested in playing a sport, please contact me at my office on 9587 9684 and we can put you in touch with the relevant code.