The award is named after the founder of the modern Olympics and is presented to young people throughout Australia who demonstrate attributes of fair play and respect for others through their participation in sport.

The Picton High School student won her award for representing the school at state level in a sport which is included in the Olympic Games.

To win the award, Tenille, 16, also had to complete a literary submission which displayed her appreciation of the Olympic Games.

"I couldn't believe it, I was so excited to receive such a prestigious award," she said.

An all-round athlete, Tenille has represented her school in athletics, swimming, cross-country, volleyball, touch football, water polo and netball. Watching the Olympic Games has made an impact on the Couridjah girl, who has played representative netball for Wollondilly.

Included in Tenille's submission was a description of how sporting superstars, who live the vision of de Coubertin, have influenced her outlook on sport.

"To me, the Olympics means all nations coming to compete, in order to achieve the highest of all goals," Tenille said.

"Being able to compete in the Olympics isn't just about winning, the sportsmanship and friendship between so many countries is just incredible and the fact that the whole world can come together, cheer together and win together is amazing to watch.

"Being able to see athletes achieve their ultimate goals is so inspiring.

"As Baron Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the Olympic Games said, 'the most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win, but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle' — it's the best inspirational quote.

"I believe the Olympics is the ultimate aim and achievement for every person to represent their country," Tenille said.

A South West Sydney Academy of Sport member, Tenille represented NSW in the under 16 indoor netball national championships in Adelaide earlier this month.

The team was undefeated, beating Queensland 41-30 in the grand final and Tenille won the Players' Player award.

She was named in the Australian Under-16 All Stars team.