Victoria University names its women in sport ambassadors
Victoria University has named its eight ambassadors – including netballer and ex The Block contestant Bianca Chatfield – to promote its sports research.
The announcement:
Comprising former elite athletes, current entrepreneurs, and leaders in the world of sport business, the eight ambassadors will use their social media platforms to champion the cause of women in sport and promote ground-breaking research as part of VU’s Sport Strategy 2019-2023.
The Women in Sport Ambassadors are not only remarkable individuals in their field, they are also proud Victorian University alumni. From sporting legend Andrew Gaze, champion cricketer Melanie (Mel) Jones, and the founder of Skateistan, Oliver Percovich, the Ambassadors share a unique insight into the world of sport, both locally and globally.
VU’s Professor Clare Hanlon the Susan Alberti Women in Sport Chair says: “We know there are barriers preventing women and girls from leading and participating in sport and physical activity, but we also know how life-changing it can be for individuals, for those around them and for organisations if women and girls are involved. We look forward to collaborating with our Women in Sport Ambassadors to share this exciting new phase.”
Bianca Chatfield, a former elite athlete and now Head Coach of Victoria University Netball Academy, says: “I am thrilled to be part of the Ambassador program. VU and sport have both played a huge role in my life and I am grateful for every lesson elite sport has taught me, both personally and professionally. I’m passionate about giving back to the next generation, sharing my experiences and encouraging girls and women to believe in themselves.”
The Women in Sport Ambassadors will help shape the future of sport by championing the cause of women in sport and supporting Victoria University’s commitment to ensuring that women have the same opportunities as men to participate and lead in sport.
Professor Clare Hanlon has spent more than two decades researching, promoting and creating opportunities for girls and women to not only get involved with sport, but to become sporting leaders. “VU is further advancing its commitment to foster global thought leaders and research that can create organisational change and advance women in sport.”
The 2019 Women in Sport Ambassadors are:
Bianca Chatfield — Head Coach of Victoria University Netball Academy, Bianca also works in sports media and is a leadership consultant.
Carol Fox — President, Women’s Sport Australia, and Executive Coach.
Andrew Gaze AM — Former professional basketball player, retried Head Coach of the National Basketball League’s Sydney Kings, current Ambassador for the non-for-profit organisation The Beehive Foundation.
Melanie (Mel) Jones OAM — Commentator and presenter, professional speaker, emcee and women’s sport advocate.
Oliver Percovich — Founder Skateistan, the first international development initiative to combine skateboarding with educational outcomes.
Andrew Poole — Sales Director, NIKE, North America, former Director South East Asia and Pacific.
Kate Price — National Manager, Commercial, Hall & Wilcox.
Leigh Russell —CEO of Swimming Australia, and Special Advisor to the Male Champions of Change, Sport.
Source: Victoria University media release
