I, Morgan Jones, would like to submit my expression of interest for the role of Para Rep on the Athlete Advisory Commission. I have become aware of this exciting opportunity through my existing role with the Team Wales Athlete Commission. The importance of having strong representation for para-athletes on the Athlete Advisory Commission is clear to me.

Much of my experiences as an athlete, a coach, and now as a professional in the sport sector have been heavily influenced by equality, diversity and inclusion. In para-athletics and disability rugby league I have been lucky enough to represent Wales and experience the pride, togetherness and belonging that comes with competing for your country. I have recently had the pleasure of supporting three junior para-athletes to achieve their goal of competing at the Trinbago Commonwealth Youth Games. The Commonwealth Games epitomises this experience and combines a sense of international community and togetherness like no other games.

Having taken the time to review the AAC goals, I can see myself contributing in various ways to each of the seven goals and five deliverables effectively. I see real opportunity for the successful candidate to have impact in the goal of Nurtureespecially when we consider the recent inclusion of para-athletics in the Commonwealth Youth Games competition programme. This is a new area for fostering a sense of belonging and pride for para-athletes who have competed at a Commonwealth Youth Games. If these young athletes are supported appropriately the likelihood of them continuing along the pathway in para sport will be maximised. It would be a true success to see a para-athlete who has competed at a Youth Games make that step to represent themselves and their nation at a Senior Commonwealth Games. I also have a particular interest in strategic planning and would relish the opportunity to support the process of planning for athlete development and support. This is something that I do have experience in from my work in the sport sector and it would be exciting to support this work across the Commonwealth.

While I have highlighted some specific areas of interest above, I am passionate about ensuring that the voices of para-athletes are heard and equally valued across all of the areas of work within the Athlete Advisory Commission. I believe that from my experience as a Commonwealth athlete, a coach and a professional in the sport sector I can offer value to the Athlete Advisory Commission while being challenged to grow and develop my own skills and knowledge along the way.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my expression of interest.

Cofion gorau/ Kind regards,

Morgan Jones

I am writing to express my nomination for the CGF Athlete Advisory Commission (AAC) Para representative. I have had a long association with Commonwealth Games, attending as an athlete in 2018 and 2022 editions of the games. Along with representing my country of Australia at 5 Paralympic Games over 20 years.

I am passionate about the Commonwealth, its athletes and the growth of the regions Para athletes. I have been a member of the Australian Athlete Advisory Group since 2018, in that time we have enabled the athletes voice to be heard and given our thoughts and opinions on a range of topics to enable a more effective run environment for the athletes collectively.

Since 2019, I have been a member of the CGF Athlete Advisory Commission. We have created more opportunities for Para athletes to participate through the GAPs program and enabling growth in the regions to be heard.

I believe I am a great candidate for this role as I have prior experience in the role and connections to the relevant stakeholders to enable actions to progress.

Biography:

Matt Levy OAM (swimming) became the first male para swimmer to successfully defend his title at the Commonwealth Games when he won the men’s 50m freestyle S7 in Birmingham in 2022. His time was just outside the Games record he set on the Gold Coast four years earlier. Matt made his Australian debut in 2003 after breaking the 200m freestyle world short course record then found his way onto the Athens 2004 Paralympic team although he missed the medals.

He is now a five-time Paralympian, with three gold and seven minor medals to his credit. He also has 13 medals, including three gold, from five world championships. In 2020, Matt was appointed a member of the Athletes Advisory Commission of the Commonwealth Games Federation. He also published Keeping Your Head Above Water: Inspirational Insights from a Champion of Life which featured childhood photos and motivational tips. Along with Going the Distance, a book designed for business and emerging managers.

Matt was born at 25 weeks with cerebral palsy and a vision impairment, and has undergone over 50 operations on his brain, heart, lungs, ears and more. Matt, who has a Bachelor of Business from the Swinburne University of Technology and an MBA from the University of Canberra, announced his retirement from swimming during the Birmingham Games.

I am a 27 year old Logistics and Supply Chain Management professional and a long standing elite boxer in the Botswana national boxing circuit. I am the first female boxer in Botswana to win an international medal of which was won at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games. I have an array of silverware and accolades in local, regional, and continental championships having also achieved great standing in global competition as I have been ranked highly in previous years for performances at international games like the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships. 

My passion and drive for boxing stems from wanting to be more and wanting to do more than the usual. Aspiring to be part of the elite few who have the fortitude to test the limits of their abilities. I wanted to prove to myself that I was and am capable of more.  

My intentions as a committee member are to assist in the growth of sports and the sports industry in my country, the region, and the continent at large. As an athlete, I experienced the low and sometimes lack of resources and attention sports received. This low reception and assistance makes it difficult for athletes to train adequately with reasonable amenities and, grow. I believe that with more attention to sports and the sports industry, we could see a development in it which would ultimately allow athletes in my region to make an honest living from their talents. 

Coupled with improving the sporting landscape in order to make it a viable means of making a living for the athlete, I am keenly interested in aiding with the development of resources for athletes to successfully transition into post competition careers.  I desire to see many more athletes enjoy illustrious sporting careers then retire gracefully with other means of making a living within the sports industry. 

I believe I will be able to connect with athletes, officials, and other stakeholders from across the commonwealth and have meaningful discussions on how to improve the welfare of athletes. The professional development that I would enjoy as part of the committee will also aid in the enhancement of my leadership, communication, as well as governance skills. These skills are transferrable to other industries and sectors and will open doors for future opportunities in sports administration and related fields. As much as becoming an athlete to make a difference in my life, I want to become a member of the committee with the hope of making a meaningful difference in the lives of athletes that will come after me. It is with great hope that I will be able to promote fairness, inclusivity, and athlete welfare within the sporting community. 

I am writing to express my keen interest in joining the Commonwealth Athletes Commission as a member. As a high-level athlete, Rapporteur of the Cameroun Athletes Commission, I am deeply invested in the development and well-being of African athletes in general, and those of Cameroun in particular.

My passion for sport and my commitment to athletic excellence have been constant pillars throughout my career. As the standard bearer of the Cameroun Olympic Team and Captain of the National Athletics Team and of course a member of the Cameroun Athletes Commission, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by athletes at all levels of competition. I am convinced that my experience and perspective could make a significant contribution to the Commonwealth Athletes Commission.

I am particularly enthusiastic about integrating into an organisation dedicated to the promotion of equality, inclusion and integrity in sport. I firmly believe that sport has the power to transcend social and cultural barriers and to bring together the peoples of the Commonwealth in a spirit of camaraderie and fair play.

As a member of the Commonwealth Athletes Commission, I am committed to representing the interests and concerns of athletes with integrity, transparency and dedication. I look forward to contributing to the achievement of the Commission's objectives for the development of sport, support for athletes and the promotion of Olympic and Paralympic values.

Thank you very much for your attention to my application. I am available to further discuss my application during a personal interview. I am convinced that, together, we can continue to advance the mission of the Commonwealth Athletes Commission and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Please accept, the expression of my best regards.

Marcel Richard MAYACK II 

Mr. Moroke Mokhotho epitomizes the essence of a dynamic and accomplished Mosotho athlete, scholar, and leader. His journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements in sports and governance, reflecting a rare blend of athleticism, academic excellence, and astute leadership capabilities. Moroke's sterling reputation precedes him, with his name synonymous with dedication, excellence, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of sports and athlete welfare. As he steps into the spotlight as a candidate for the Athlete Advisory Commission (AAC), Moroke brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, positioning him as a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for positive change within the realm of sports governance.

Moroke's prowess extends beyond the realm of athletics, encompassing a rich tapestry of academic accomplishments and leadership roles. His journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to personal and professional growth, with each milestone serving as a stepping stone towards greater heights of success. Moroke's academic achievements, coupled with his leadership roles within various sports organizations, underscore his multifaceted talents and his ability to navigate complex challenges with finesse and determination. As he embarks on his quest to serve as an AAC member, Moroke's diverse skill set and unparalleled passion for athlete welfare position him as an invaluable asset to the Lesotho Boxing Association (LeBA) and the broader sporting community.

Moroke's candidacy for the AAC is characterized by a profound sense of purpose and a steadfast commitment to effecting meaningful change within the sports landscape. His journey is fueled by a deep-seated desire to champion the interests of athletes and spearhead transformative initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity, equity, and excellence within sports governance. Moroke's vision is one of empowerment and progress, where athletes are afforded the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive both on and off the field of play. As he embarks on this transformative journey, Moroke stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of sports governance and athlete advocacy.

I am delighted to be part of the Advisory committee of CGF Athletes commission as a voice of many African and worldwide Athletes, to be heard and participate in improvement of our strong community of Commonwealth Games Association. This is not new to me because since 2023, I have been elected to represent zone 5 in ANOCA (Association of National Olympic Committee of Africa) Athletes Commission and also chaired Rwanda National Olympic Committee AC for 2 years from 2019 to 2021.

In 2013, I participated in different major competitions in Beach Volleyball such as 2013 & 2019 Men world championships, Warsaw-Poland-under ages and Hamburg-Germany Senior stage respectively, but mostly felt honored when I participated in the recent 2022 Birmingham commonwealth games where I am a semi-finalist of that competition. I have also competed 3 times in All African Games competitions 2015, 2019 and 2024 and got medals and good note.

Beside, my volleyball carrier, I have a bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology and now I am working as an Examination officer, which gave me an experience to interact and deal with different kind of people and retrieve some important information.

Being elected to be among advisory committee of CGF will serve me to liaise my fellow Athletes with the CGA Executive committee through CGA ARBs so that our opinions, as Athletes, can be taken into consideration.

With kind regards,

NTAGENGWA Olivier

Dear Esteemed Members of the CGF AAC Elections Committee, 

I am writing with earnest enthusiasm to declare my candidacy for the Commonwealth Games Federation Athletes’ Advisory Commission (CGF AAC). My passion for positive change within the sporting community, coupled with my dedication as an athlete, motivates me to offer my unique perspective and unwavering commitment to the CGF AC. 

My journey in table tennis has been one defined by determination, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. From humble beginnings in Guyana to becoming the first table tennis player representing Guyana at the Olympics, I have continuously pushed boundaries and sought to inspire others through my achievements. 

Beyond my athletic endeavors, I am deeply committed to advocating for gender equality and community development within the realm of sports. I firmly believe in the unifying power of sports to transcend boundaries and unite people, and I am eager to utilize this platform to drive positive change both on and off the field of play. 

In addition to my athletic accomplishments, I hold a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a Post Graduate Certificate in International Sports Management, which have equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the intricate landscape of international sports governance. Currently serving as the Chair of the Guyana Athletes Commission, I have tirelessly represented the interests of athletes at the national level, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns addressed. 

Having had the honor of representing Guyana at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, I gained invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing athletes from diverse backgrounds. This experience fuels my passion and determination to advocate for the rights and well-being of athletes worldwide through my prospective role in the Commonwealth Games Federation Athletes’ Commission. 

As Chair of the Guyana Athletes Commission, I have spearheaded impactful programs aimed at supporting and empowering athletes across our nation. One such initiative was the recently concluded Social Media Management Workshop, which aimed to educate athletes on the responsible use of social media and empower them to leverage it effectively for personal and professional growth. 

Additionally, the launch of Team592—an athlete-focused online platform—has provided athletes with access to essential information and resources for their holistic development. By fostering a supportive community where athletes can interact, share experiences, and seek advice, Team592 promotes camaraderie and empowers athletes to take control of their development journeys. 

My decision to run for the CGF AAC is underpinned by my belief in the importance of athletes having a voice in shaping the future of the Commonwealth Games movement. If elected, I pledge to prioritize advocating for equitable opportunities, promoting diversity and inclusivity, and enhancing communication and collaboration within the Commonwealth Games community. 

In conclusion, I am wholeheartedly committed to serving as a voice for athletes on the Commonwealth Games Federation Athletes’ Commission. With my passion, integrity, and dedication, I am confident in my ability to make meaningful contributions to the CGF AC and the broader Commonwealth Games movement. 

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to contribute to the continued success and growth of the Commonwealth Games. 

Sincerely, 
Chelsea Edghill, OLY
Chair,
Guyana Athletes Commission 

I am writing to express my strong interest in serving on the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) Athletes Advisory Committee. With a diverse background spanning wrestling, athlete representation, and extensive involvement in athlete education and advocacy, I am passionate about contributing to the well-being of athletes within the Commonwealth Games community.

Throughout my career, I have achieved significant international success, including gold medals at the prestigious Commonwealth Games in 2010 and 2018, and a silver medal in 2022, representing Pakistan with pride. Additionally, I have secured gold medals in the World Beach Wrestling Series and bronze medals in various other international competitions, highlighting my consistent excellence on the global stage. Domestically, I have been a dominant force in Pakistan's wrestling scene, securing gold medals in numerous National Senior Wrestling Championships and National Games.

Beyond my athletic achievements, I have actively engaged in athlete education and advocacy as Chairman of the CGA Pakistan Athletes Commission. I, with my team, have organized forums, workshops, and seminars covering vital topics such as anti-doping, nutrition, harassment and abuse, injury prevention, and athletes' rights, emphasizing holistic athlete well-being.

Academically, I hold a Master's degree in Sports Sciences and an MBA in Human Resource Management, providing a solid foundation in sports management and organizational leadership.

If chosen for the CGF Athletes Advisory Committee, I am committed to advocating for athletes' interests, promoting inclusivity and diversity, and contributing to the ongoing success of the Commonwealth Games.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with fellow athletes and stakeholders to enact positive change within the CGF community.

Muhammad Inam

Dear fellow athletes,

I am Terry Tay from Singapore. Throughout my career in sport, I have balanced life as a student athlete, to full-time working athlete. I believe my life experiences both in and outside sport, and willing attitude to (re)learn will help me add value to this role in the Asia region.

A brief self-introduction:

• 30 years old. Graduated from competitive sport as of March 2024
• 24 years in Gymnastics (Men’s Artistic), 17 years representing Singapore. Competed at:
  • Commonwealth Youth Games (2011). Commonwealth Games (2014, 2022)
  • Asian Games (2014, 2018, 2022)
  • South East Asian Games (2011, 2015, 2019, 2021, 2023)
  • Artistic Gymnastics World Championships (2013, 2014, 2018)
• Serving on Singapore National Olympic Council Athletes’ Commission (Member)
• Recently elected onto Olympic Council of Asia Athletes’ Committee (Member)
• Working at a global organization which provides professional services – I advise global clients on performance improvement, risk mitigation, and thus create value for them

I believe expression is at the heart of every human being. Our athlete voice is powerful – it unites people amidst their differences, and inspires others to face their challenges in life. Sport has helped me find my voice and express myself. It taught me that everyone can make a difference no matter age, gender, life phase.

If elected, my commitment is to ensure athletes voices are heard, and interests represented.

The privilege to serve in various roles has given me a deeper appreciation for what goes on behind the scenes, and has grown my heart to serve athletes. Serving athletes has reaffirmed my belief that sport empowers us to be a better version of ourselves – I hope to share this belief with others, and support you along your sporting journey.

My motivations to serve on the CGF Athletes Advisory Commission:

• Ensure athletes voice are heard, and interests represented
• Engage with athletes by regularly connecting with regional networks
• Topics passionate on: mental health, youth development in sport, student athlete/work athlete life balance, athlete life transition before/after graduation from (professional) sport

If elected, I hope to include my motivations in my discussions, possible initiatives developed with fellow athlete members on the next CGF AAC, and regular engagement with regional networks. Sport has given me much, and I hope to pay this blessing forward.

Thank you for considering my application. I am confident that my experience and willing attitude to (re)learn will help me further give back to sport, and support you in your sporting journey.

Dear CGF Election Panel,

I am writing to express my profound interest in the esteemed position of Caribbean Regional Representative of the Commonwealth Games Federation Athletes' Advisory Commission. With a distinguished career in athletics spanning over two decades, alongside a fervent commitment to athlete advocacy and community empowerment, I am confident in my ability to make a significant impact in promoting an athlete-centric approach to governance.

In my role as a dedicated Physiotherapist at the St Lucia Sports Academy and as the Chairperson of the St Lucia Athletes’ Commission, I have been deeply immersed in creating a nurturing environment for athletes to excel. Through tireless efforts as both a coach and an administrator, I have worked tirelessly to cultivate sporting talent and foster a supportive network for athletes on my island.

Having proudly represented Saint Lucia in athletics, netball and rugby and garnered numerous accolades, including being named St Lucia's Sportswoman of the Year and NCAA Field Athlete of the Year, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to this prestigious position. My leadership roles within various athletic organizations, notably my appointment as Chairperson of the St Lucia Olympic Committee Inc. Athletes’ Commission, underscore my unwavering commitment to advocating for athletes' interests and ensuring their voices are heard in decision-making forums.

Moreover, my participation and outstanding performance in the World Athletics Pilot Mentorship Course, where I graduated with top honors and became a certified World Athletics mentor, underscore my dedication to continuous learning and growth within the athletic sphere. Armed with a plethora of distinguished sports certifications, including World Athletics CECS Level One Mentor/Lecturer and PANAM Sports High-Performance Coach-Level 1, I am adept and knowledgeable in the field of athletics. Furthermore, my recent coaching triumphs at prestigious events such as the Carifta Games, Caribbean Games, and Commonwealth Games serve as testament to my ability to lead and inspire athletes to realize their fullest potential on the international stage.

Additionally, I take great pride in spearheading the creation of the inaugural St Lucia Athletics Association Monthly Digest, an initiative that aims to spotlight the remarkable stories of our athletes, officials, and dedicated sports personnel while championing and elevating track and field in Saint Lucia. This endeavor underscores my vision of utilizing strategic communication to amplify the profiles of our athletes and the sports community at large.

In closing, my profound passion for sports advancement, combined with my skills, experience, and leadership acumen, positions me as a dedicated professional ready to contribute meaningfully to sports development in the region. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to collaborate with your esteemed organization and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sports within our distinct community.

Thank you for considering my application. I eagerly anticipate the prospect of discussing how I can contribute to the continued success of the Commonwealth Games Federation Athletes Advisory Commission.

Warm regards,

Saint Lucia Athletes’ Commission Chairperson

To Whom it May Concern,

Following the recent email opening the application process for the Commonwealth Games Federation Athlete Advisory Commission (AAC), I would like to express my interest for the role of regional representative (Europe).

Having been accepted onto the Commonwealth Games Wales Athlete Commission in April 2023, I have been able to gain an insight into the role of an Athlete Commission; to be a representative voice on matters affecting the athletes; be agents of positive change to policy development for the future; and to nurture belonging and pride in athletes across the Commonwealth.

My academic and sporting experiences have allowed me to develop my interpersonal, communication and organisational skills, which has enabled me to work effectively with colleagues, teammates, and external organisations through project work. Therefore, I feel I possess the skills required for the role of regional representative on the AAC.

I have worked as a Senior Lecturer at Cardiff Metropolitan University in Sport Development and Management for 12 years, been part of a high-performance team environment for 20 years and had the privilege of being Wales Netball captain for 12 years, before retiring from playing. Within these roles I have worked independently, as part of a team, and collaboratively with external groups working on projects in practical settings. I have been responsible for organising meetings, constructing agendas, communicating with others, sharing ideas and presenting information to guide key decisions. All these skills I feel are transferrable to the role on the AAC.

I continue to be ambitious, and I am committed to my professional development. I am currently studying for my Professional Doctorate in the field of sport, which seeks to ensure participants have a positive experience through sport. I am also interested in gaining insight and experience of working with organisational boards, governance and policy and feel the role of regional representative on the AAC would present a fantastic opportunity to further my development in this area.

I am confident I have the necessary experience to represent the region on the AAC and work with the Athlete Advisory Chair to ensure athletes have a voice in the governance and strategic direction of the organisation.

Yours sincerely,

Suzy Drane

Personal Information:  Born in Pieta, Malta on March 18, 1999.

A lifetime Liverpool supporter with a lot of passion for sports and physical education. I graduated with my Advanced Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development in 2017. Furthering my knowledge in badminton coaching I achieved my shuttle time course as well as the BWF (Badminton World Federation) Level 1 + 2 Coaching Certificate. Coaching a lot of different ages and levels for the past 8 years now as well as coaching in Denmark with my club.

I enjoy reading & cooking and always learning new things. Working a lot on my academy the last few years has brought me a lot of satisfaction, mainly working on a lot of new projects, events and meeting new people.

My passion for Sport

Having started playing badminton at a young age I was always very curious about the sport. I followed in my family’s footsteps where most of my family members had played badminton since they were kids. I started practicing with my local club and my journey took off from there. After finishing my diploma in sports, I wanted to give badminton a real try and go full time. That’s when I decided to move to Denmark to pursue being a full-time athlete. For the next 4 years (2017-2021) I was living and breathing badminton everyday and that was my life. Learning so many new things about the sport, making so many new friends from all over the world and getting to grow and mature both in my game and in life. After all that hard work I am very proud to have competed in two of my top goals in my sporting career -the Olympic Games in Tokyo, as well as being part of the Maltese team at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham for the first time. A couple of years ago, I moved back to Malta where I am still training full time and focusing more on tournaments as well as training in different countries. Working on trying to secure another spot for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

The experience

Two and a half years ago, together with my business partner, we opened our badminton academy here in Malta focusing on sports for all, as well as, the development of the sport. This was roughly the same time when I was encouraged to submit my nomination and to be part of the Maltese Athletes’ Commission. It has definitely been a great experience so far, organising our first athletes commission seminar, as well as a team building activity for all the athletes to create a stronger bond between sports and the athletes. I have learned a lot from the Chair of our Athletes’ Commission, her leadership and attention to detail is very inspiring.

The drive & commitment

The reasons behind my nomination are:

• to further increase my knowledge and outlook on different situation/events plus give feedback and own experience from an active athlete’s point of view;
• to share more awareness on athlete’s mental health and wellbeing; and
• to give a voice for athletes from smaller countries and the issues we may face.

I write to passionately pursue nomination for the role of Oceania Representative on the Commonwealth Games Federation's (CGF) Athlete Advisory Commission (AAC), driven by a deep commitment to champion athlete voices and perspectives. As a recently retired athlete with extensive international competition experience, including competing at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, I bring invaluable firsthand knowledge of the challenges and triumphs that athletes encounter in their quest for greatness. This personal journey uniquely equips me to advocate for athletes interests, well-being, and dreams.

Through my athletic career, I have lived the intensity of training, the thrill of competition, and the transition into post-sport life. I am dedicated to ensuring that the athletes of today and tomorrow receive unwavering support and the necessary resources to excel in every aspect of their lives. My journey from athlete to retiree has broadened my perspective, revealing the profound impact of sports on individuals and communities.

As the Deputy General Manager of the Australian Team at Trinbago 2023, I was provided with a profound perspective on the significance and transformative power of the Commonwealth Games within the global sporting landscape. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the Games impact but also highlighted their pivotal role in fostering unity, camaraderie, and excellence among athletes from diverse backgrounds.

Additionally, my current work in remote parts of Australia involves creating opportunities for those less fortunate, particularly focusing on amplifying the voices of our most vulnerable populations. This role has heightened my understanding of the challenges faced by different communities and the transformative power of sports in promoting social inclusion and well-being.

My experiences have made me deeply knowledgeable about athlete welfare and the power of sport in fostering

unity and development. I am committed to leveraging this understanding to shape policies and initiatives that

empower athletes across Oceania and throughout the Commonwealth.

My nomination represents a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in advancing athlete interests and welfare within the Commonwealth Games movement. I am eager to utilise my diverse experiences, insights, and expertise to drive positive change and ensure athletes across Oceania receive the unwavering support they deserve to succeed and shine.

Biography:

Greg Hire, a seasoned basketball player, distinguished himself by earning a silver medal while representing Australia in the inaugural 3x3 Basketball competition at Birmingham 2022.

His illustrious career in professional basketball boasts four championships and over 240 appearances with the Perth Wildcats in the NBL, showcasing his exceptional skill and dedication. Transitioning to 3x3 basketball, Greg continued to shine, contributing significantly to Australia's triumphs at the 2019 and 2022 FIBA Asian Cups. During his tenure in the NBL, Greg served as the National Basketball League’s Player Association Member Delegate from 2015-2019.

Beyond his achievements on the court, Greg is deeply committed to making a positive impact in the community.

As the Founder and CEO of ‘A Stitch in Time’, a non-profit organisation providing vital mental health support to youth, Greg demonstrates his unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of others.

Greg also served on the Board of Binar Sports from 2016-2019, a First Nations Sports Organisation, providing consultancy services to the Perth Wildcats in addition to State Sporting Associations/Organisations. He plays a pivotal role in athlete advocacy and representation, serving as the Co-Chair of the current Commonwealth Games Australia Athlete Advisory Group.

Despite his numerous professional and philanthropic commitments, Greg remains a devoted family man, balancing his responsibilities with raising two children (Sullivan & Finley) and being equally supported by his amazing wife, Ainsleigh.

Through his multifaceted contributions to sports and community welfare, Greg Hire embodies the qualities of leadership, resilience, and compassion, leaving an enduring legacy both on and off the court.

I write to nominate myself for the role of Oceania Representative on the CGFs Athlete Advisory Commission (AAC) with a profound dedication to representing both an athlete and female voice.

As a swimmer, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs of competing at the highest level, and, as a woman, I recognise the importance of advocating for gender diversity and inclusion within sport and its governance.

My motivation for seeking this role stems from a deeply held belief in the power of the athlete voice to drive positive change within the Commonwealth Games movement. I am passionate about ensuring that athletes' perspectives are heard and valued in decision-making processes, particularly those pertaining to athlete welfare, gender equality, and diversity. By serving on the AAC, I aim to amplify the voices of athletes and advocate for policies and initiatives that support their development and well-being.

Having competed in swimming at two previous Commonwealth Games, I will bring a unique perspective to the AAC, on understanding of the nuances of elite competition and the challenges that athletes face. My experiences have instilled in me a strong sense of empathy and a desire to support all athletes in realising their full potential, regardless of gender, ability, or background.

I am eager to contribute my perspectives, experiences, and insights to the AAC’s work and to collaborate in shaping the future of the Commonwealth Games movement.

Biography:

Hailing from Queensland, Shayna Jack is an Australian swimmer renowned for her exceptional talent and dedication in and around the pool.

At the 2022 Commonwealth Games, she secured a full set of medals, including a second consecutive gold in the 4x100m freestyle, along with silver in the 100m freestyle and bronze in the 50m freestyle. At Gold Coast 2018, Shayna clinched gold in the 4x100m freestyle relay, setting a world record, and 4th place in both the 50m and 100m freestyle.

Shayna epitomises not only performance and professionalism in and out of the pool, but also the unwavering commitment to speaking up for what is right.

Following a two-year battle for justice after a doping allegation that was ultimately overturned, Shayna made a triumphant return to competitive swimming in 2021. This paved the way for her stellar performance at the 2022 World Championships in Budapest, where she secured gold in the 4x100m freestyle and silver in the 4x100m medley mixed relay.

Shayna showcased her resilience as a contestant on SAS Australia in 2021, further demonstrating her ability to challenge herself both physically and mentally. These qualities underscore Shayna's enduring commitment to excellence and advocacy, making her a true inspiration both in and out of sport.

To whom it may concern,

My name is Julia Ratcliffe and I am standing for appointment as a member of the CGF Athlete Advisory Commission (AAC). My past involvement as an athlete, alongside my leadership and governance experience make me a good candidate to uphold athlete integrity and wellbeing in collaboration with the CGF.

I have been involved in athletics for over 20 years, and have represented New Zealand at the Commonwealth (2014, 2018, 2022) and Olympic Games (2021). I retired from competition in 2023. I also currently serve on the Board of Athletics Auckland and the Athletics New Zealand Athlete’s Commission, so have experience in several facets of sports governance.

Some of my favourite competition memories are from my Commonwealth Games experiences and I would relish the opportunity to contribute to continuing the legacy of the Games. I know there future of the Games, and upholding the athlete experience at the Games and within there are some challenges around the future of the Games, and supporting athletes as the CGF navigate this uncertainty is extremely important to me.

I have spent a lot of time travelling and competing across Oceania and I’m a passionate advocate for this part of the world. I know the challenges facing athletes in Oceania and would be honoured to have the opportunity to connect with them further and represent them.

In terms of my contribution, I am comfortable communicating to both governing bodies and the group of people whose interests I represent. I can deal with sensitive issues pragmatically and impartially. I respect the viewpoints of others and believe that everybody has a right to be heard. Even since retiring, I still engage with a cross-section of athletes across a range of sports and feel confident that other athletes would be comfortable sharing their feedback and/or concerns with me. I am not afraid to challenge systems where the athlete is not being put first and feel I can do so respectfully without losing impact.

I find my current roles in sports governance very meaningful and I would love the opportunity to add value to the Commonwealth movement via the Athlete Advisory Commission.

Sincerely,

Julia Ratcliffe