Many of them have gone on to become household names - and it all started here in Cumbria.
We have produced stars in football, cricket, netball, badminton, swimming, rugby and a host of other sports.
Whether established names or rising stars, the News & Star has covered their progress from an early age - in some cases, a very early age.
Check out the photo gallery at the top of this article and see how many you recognise...
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