You Can't Report What You Can't Name
Sport Integrity Australia asked more than 1,000 young Australians about their experiences in sport.
The finding that stopped me wasn't the numbers. It was this: young people who are exposed to negative experiences in sport become more likely to accept poor behaviour as normal.
A child cannot report what they cannot name.
I Went to a School Swimming Carnival and What I Saw Was Alarming
At a recent school swimming carnival in southeast Queensland, I witnessed a troubling reality: many high school students cannot swim 50 metres or run basic distances. While participation was encouraged, the gap in physical literacy among kids is alarming. This raises an urgent question for schools and sporting bodies: how are we building a lasting legacy of movement, safety, and lifelong health in our children?
My Coaching Journey
With 28 years of coaching experience, from kindergym to elite gymnastics and Olympic weightlifting, I’m passionate about guiding the next generation of athletes. I believe that strong fundamentals are the key to success, and when youth athletes are given the right foundation, they have the potential to thrive and achieve great things. Coaching isn't just about teaching skills—it's about shaping the future of sport and empowering young athletes to reach their full potential.