The performances of the boccia star and Dunedoo Central School student last week were also special to fellow Paralympian Katie Kelly.

Armidale product Kelly competed in the para-triathlon at Tokyo and the 46-year-old confirmed after the event she would be retiring from Paralympic competition.

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But she still has plenty to look forward to after starting the Sport Access Foundation following her gold medal win in Rio.

The foundation gives grants to enable children with disabilities to participate in sport and Leeson was one of three beneficiaries who competed at the Tokyo Games.

"For me that is what it is all about, giving back to sport," Kelly said.

"So many people have given me opportunities throughout my life and, of course, I had the capacity to do more.

"I am so grateful I could do that through Sport Access."

Eighteen-year-old Leeson was one of the very first to benefit from Sport Access and prior to the Games, Kelly had praised the year 12 student.

"She is just an outstanding young Australian," Kelly said.

"She has been doing her HSC and qualified for the Tokyo Paralympics. She is the most resilient, inspiring, young individual."

Leeson competed in the pairs section of the boccia at Tokyo alongside Daniel Michel and Spencer Cotie.

The team missed out on a medal at the Games but Leeson described the experience as "incredible".

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