QBE Sydney Swans Academy representative Brad Watson has been awarded the Carbine Club of NSW Sports Development Scholarship.

The Carbine Club Scholarship, which is valued at $2,500, is awarded to talented young sportspeople to assist them with participation and development in their chosen sport.

Watson demonstrated his football potential in this year’s Academy series against the GWS Academy side as well as part of the NSW/ACT Rams representative team.

Watson played some of his best football earlier this month, collecting 34 possessions across half back for the Rams against the Northern Territory in the National Championships.

Swans Academy Talent ID & Operations Manager Chris Smith said Watson, who is a member of the Under-16 Academy Squad, is a deserved recipient of the award.

“Brad is a very smart player who has a great understanding of the game,” he said.

“He reads the play extremely well, makes smart decisions and shows a high degree of composure when he has the ball.

“His ability to read the play across half back and use the ball effectively helps the team rebound out of defence and sets-up much of our forward play.”

Smith said Watson was also a terrific leader off the field.

“Brad is not only a gifted player but displays a great work ethic,” he said.

“He never misses training and sets an example with the level of intensity and professionalism we require from the whole group. “

The 15-year-old was presented with the award at last month’s Carbine Club Luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel in Sydney.

Members of the Carbine Club include leading athletes across a number of sporting fields including Test Cricket, Rugby League, Surf Lifesaving, Golf, Motor Racing and AFL. The Club also includes members of the business, political and media communities.