Sport Bay of Plenty is putting the call out for young leaders with an interest in sport to apply for a newly established sports council.

Aimed at increasing youth voice in the school sport sector, all Year 12 and 13 students across the Bay of Plenty can apply.

Sport Bay of Plenty school sport team leader Gareth Yates says the new initiative is not just aimed at sports enthusiasts, and they are looking to get a fair and balanced representation of students' wants and needs.

'The council will promote and develop positive sport outcomes within schools and the local community. As part of this, they will also help facilitate local events, including the prestigious Bay of Plenty Sports Awards.

'What better people to help set the future direction of sport in schools than the students themselves.”

The successful applicants will be chosen based on their passion for sport, and desire and enthusiasm to encourage other students in their school and the wider region.

Representatives are to be selected from a variety of sporting codes, backgrounds and schools to ensure that each area is represented on the council.

Meetings commence from week eight of term one, and will be held each term throughout the year. Council members must be willing to commit to all meetings.

For more information, or to apply visit www.sportbop.co.nz or contact Gareth on garethy@sportbop.co.nz