I f you’re asked to recall some of the most memorable moments in Australian sport, there are likely to be some outstanding examples of female athletes. Who can forget Cathy Freeman winning a gold medal in the 400 metres at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, jockey Michelle Payne winning the 2015 Melbourne Cup on Prince of Penzance, and the Matildas triumph in the Tournament of Nations in 2017? How about the first Olympic rugby sevens gold medal in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, Australia’s incredible Women’s Twenty20 World Cup win in 2018, and the famous lockout forced by an overwhelming crowd at the inaugural AFLW game at Melbourne’s Ikon Park in 2017? All these moments absolutely deserve a place alongside any male sporting success, but they also represent pivotal times of social change. They demonstrate the power of women’s sport that transcends sport itself: by empowering women; showcasing strength, leadership and resilience as female traits; and inspiring hope and optimism for a society seeking equality and inclusion of not only gender minorities, but all minorities.
About the Author
Professor Sarah Kelly, renowned for her global academic, leadership and governance expertise across education and sports management, drives forward-thinking initiatives to the world stage. A distinguished ‘prac-academic’, commercial lawyer and champion for inclusivity, Sarah leads with innovation and insight. For exclusive updates on the latest in sport, management, leadership, education, innovation, and research, subscribe at DrSarahKelly.com.au