Former primary school of Olympian 'overwhelmed with pride'

A southwest Sydney primary school is “overwhelmed with pride” as a former student heads to the Olympic Games.

Former Blairmont Public student and Campbelltown local Jacqueline Nichele leaves for Paris tomorrow, to compete in the Olympic weightlifting competition.

Her old teachers have decked out the school in gold and green for their golden girl.

“I remember her loving her sport…[she was] competitive, loved her gymnastics,” Jacquilin’es Year 5 teacher Jeremy Collins said.

“We are just overwhelmed with pride…we can’t be prouder,” Principal Melanie Macmillan added.

Her mum Kathy still runs the school canteen and will be boarding her first-ever overseas flight tomorrow to watch her daughter compete.

“We’re super proud, it’s all overwhelming…[we’re just] a humble little family from Campbelltown,” she said while holding back tears.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and this is just surreal that this is happening to our family.”

The 23-year-old will begin competing on August 10, with everyone at her old school promising to wake up at 3am to watch her event.