South West families support Olympic Athletes from afar

A South West family is encouraging all Australians to cheer on the country’s Olympians as they compete in Tokyo without a crowd.

Busselton’s Carolyn Chapman and her family will be giving an extra special cheer for her sister and Matilda’s player Laura Brock.

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Thanks to the expansion of the 22-player women’s soccer squad, Brock will have the chance to compete in the internationally revered tournament.

However like all athletes heading to Tokyo, Brock won’t be able to have her loved ones in the stands cheering — instead they are forced to watch from home due to the ever developing COVID-19 pandemic.

Mrs Chapman and her family have urged all locals to gather with friends and show their support in spirit.

“I’m just so proud of Jane, she’s such a dedicated footballer to the sport, and all of the athletes,” she said.

“We’re lucky here in WA that we can still get some friends together and watch Laura and the other athletes, it’s only an hour time difference too.

“I really encourage everyone to tune in and watch, this is a huge accomplishment for these athletes and with no spectators there’s not that support at Tokyo.

“By knowing we’re all here cheering them on at home or at the pub together will really make them feel supported.”

Mrs Chapman’s three daughters Rachel, 9, Elyssa, 6, and Kaylee, 2, were excited to see “Aunty Loz” compete and hoped the games would be before bedtime.