Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson was recognised with the Oceania IOC Women in Sport award at a ceremony in Buenos Aires on Friday.
IOC: Australian basketball legend Lauren Jackson was recognised with the Oceania IOC Women in Sport award at a ceremony in Buenos Aires on Friday.
The four-time Olympian’s ongoing work to develop, encourage and reinforce women through sport saw her named as one of six global winners.
After an incredible career including three silver and a bronze Olympic medal with the Opals, Jackson has worked to raise awareness of racial and sexual discrimination, assist in athletes’ transition to post-sporting life, and inspires young girls to unleash their potential.
Jackson established the ‘Lauren Jackson Basketball Academy’ to provide young basketball players the opportunity to gain additional skills and experience to help them define their future career and study options. The 37-year-old is also an Ambassador for Basketball Australia’s Junior Development programme ‘Aussie Hoops’.
In 2014, she became a Gender Equality Champion for UN Women Australian and in 2015 was awarded national recognition as an Officer of the Order of Australia for her work in basketball, as well as her off-court work with domestic violence services.
Australian Olympic Committee CEO Matt Carroll said Jackson epitomises the Olympic spirit.
“Leading by example, Lauren was and is a role model for countless young women to aspire to a sporting career, to achieve in other fields or both. Lauren continues to inspire young Australians with her tireless contribution.” Carroll said.
“This award is richly deserved, and again highlights the incredible impact Olympians have on our aspiring youth."
The awards, established by the IOC in 2000, are given to highlight role models and change agents in the pursuit of gender equality.
The ceremony coincides with the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games, with 4000 athletes from 206 countries to kick off the Games at Sunday’s Opening Ceremony.
olympics.com.au