Western Sydney Wanderers Powerchair player Ben Keyte has been nominated for the 2017 Young Australian of the Year award.

Ben was nominated for his work in encouraging young people to get involved in sport something which he says has helped shape him into the person he is today.

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"I think sport has given me so much and helped me get through the hard times in life," he said.

"I can see the benefits of the comradery with friends and family."

Ben is part of the Wanderers Powerchair team and has represented Australia at the highest level on the world stage.

"It was incredible. It was my first trip overseas, so to go over and represent your country is the biggest honour that we can achieve in our sport.

"Singing the national anthem was amazing," he said.

Sport has had a large impact on Ben's life and he credits many of the friendships he has currently thanks to his participation.

"It really makes you forget all the disabilities and all the things you have to put up with living life in a wheelchair.

"I've made so many life long friends because of it."