Ocean Grove’s Jack Innella shone on the world stage for the Australian Boomerangs at the Virtus Games.
Innella was part of the Boomerangs 3 x 3 and 5 x 5 Boomerangs that won world championships at the games.
The Boomerangs are men’s national representative team for athletes with an intellectual impairment.
Innella was named the most valuable of the 3 x 3 part of the games and was named in the all-star team for both.
It was a second straight world championship for Innella, who was part of the team in 2023.
“It feels absolutely amazing — winning two titles at the Virtus Games is an unforgettable experience,” he said.
“I’m incredibly proud and grateful for the opportunity to represent my country and all the preparation that led to this moment.
“The Boomerangs have made history and you can’t top that.”
Innella said it was incredible to be recognised on the world stage and named in the all-star fives.
It was the first time that he played 3 x 3, which he said he found quite easy to adapt to.
“It was something new. I was really looking forward to giving it a go and to win the gold medal and to be named MVP was a huge achievement and I am really looking forward to playing in this format again.
The pace was something I really thrived in.
“It was an incredible feeling to be recognised on the world stage and named in the all-star five.
“To know our performances stood out among some of the best in the world is really special — it’s a moment we’ll never forget.”
Innella said the Boomerangs are a tight knit group and it shows on the court,
Joining Innella in the Boomerangs 5 x 5 side was Sunbury teammates Dylan Cheyne, which he said was special.
Innella is now focused on finishing off the season with the Sunbury Jets.
“Back to Big V for Sunbury and whatever else is thrown my way, I’m always up for a challenge,” he said.
