The 16-year-old competed in several diving events this year, and initially won in his age level at his school competition, then came second in the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) competition, before making it to the State challenge.

It was David's first time in both the CIS and State competitions, after taking on the sport nearly five years ago.

Mother and local business owner Sally Hall said she believed David's success had come from the extra training hours he had been putting in this year.

"He really enjoys diving and certainly didn't expect to get so far, but he was happy about it."

Ms Hall said David had always wanted to try diving while growing up in the Ridge but never had the opportunity to until he attended school in Sydney.

"He's achieved one of his goals, which is good."

During the State competition David was required to do nine different styles of dives incorporating a range of twists, backward and forward dives, and somersaults.

All the dives had a varying degree of difficulty and were all attempted by David from the high and low boards.

"He was a bundle of nerves, but pulled through in the competition," Ms Hall said.

She said her son had really enjoyed entering at the State level and got comfort by the fact that the venue was full of competitors as the swimming competition was also held on the same day.

"I think he'll continue to do it as a fun sport," Ms Hall said.