Cate Campbell to be a candidate for IOC Athletes’ Commission

Olympic champion Cate Campbell is set to stand for membership of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Athletes’ Commission.

The three-time Olympic swimmer will vie for one of four open positions on the Athletes’ Commission, to be voted on by athletes in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Village during next year’s Games.

The four elected athletes will replace members whose eight-year term finish in 2020, including Australian rower James Tomkins.

The Commission, currently comprised of 17 athletes from 17 different nations, advises the IOC Session, IOC Executive Board and President Thomas Bach to ensure the athletes’ viewpoint is integral to the Olympic movement.

Campbell said she was honoured at the opportunity to make a difference for athletes around the world.

“The opportunity to promote athletes’ interests for the global Olympic community is something I’m really passionate about,” Campbell said.

“We all have chances to make the world a better place and I want to take that opportunity to represent Olympians’ interests.

“I’m proud of the work the AOC Athletes’ Commission, particularly around athlete transition. Moving into a post-elite sport life can be extremely daunting, and being able to work with athletes internationally to build a powerful athlete transition program for the entire Olympic family is something I would focus on.

“Equally, improved communication between athletes and organisations is important.

“Competing at three Olympics as an athlete and being part of the AOC Athletes’ Commission since being elected in 2013, I’ve seen first-hand how much passion and effort goes into organising an Olympic Team.

“I believe we can be innovative in improving communication with athletes and that will lead to better outcomes – both for athletes and sporting organisations.

“Being a candidate for this Commission is a big responsibility and not something I take on lightly. I want to take the opportunity now to make a difference for athletes around the world, grow the Olympic movement and promote the Olympic ideals that we hold so dearly.”

AOC President John Coates AC said Cate’s extensive experience of promoting athlete outcomes would make her a perfect candidate for the role.

“Cate has been an invaluable member of the AOC’s Athletes’ Commission for more than six years after being elected to that role by her peers” Mr Coates said.

“Cate brings the same drive, determination and passion that has seen her become one of the world’s best swimmers, with five Olympic medals across three Games, to her role as an athlete advocate.

“She has used her position to work hard for athletes, throughout their Olympic experience, their ongoing athletic endeavours and in the vital transition to post-athletic career.

“I strongly support Cate’s candidacy for the IOC Athletes’ Commission and believe her experience, both in competition and out, will make her a valuable asset for athletes around the world.”

Candidates elected to the IOC Athletes’ Commission have their membership submitted to the IOC Session for approval for full membership of the IOC, served concurrently over the following eight years.