Daniel Kowalski, a swimming icon known for his historic Olympic feats, faced silent struggles with deep personal demons and the challenges of living a closeted life. Today, he channels his experiences into helping fellow athletes navigate their post-competition lives, emerging as a beacon of resilience and hope.
Deakin University in collaboration with the Victorian Institute of Sport has researched the role of Performance Lifestyle Advisers (PLAs) and how the profession in holistic athlete wellbeing contributes to high performance outcomes for Australia.
Australian Olympian and judoka, Katharina Haecker, is fresh from a bronze medal win at the 2023 Judo Grand Slam. Yet at the top of her game it’s not always her work ethic, physical strength or commitment that gives her a competitive advantage.
VIS Performance Psychologist, Laura Cosgrove, works with the athletics program to support their mental wellbeing and mental preparation. It is her view that being led off piste by emotions or thoughts is not the core issue its the response to them that causes the distraction.