REBECCA WARDELL
“At the end of the day you want to be remembered for being a decent and kind person, regardless of what is on your CV”
Meet Rebecca, an Olympian who represented New Zealand in Beijing 2008. She went on to work at the New Zealand Olympic Committee before joining the International Olympic Committee – IOC in 2014. In 2018/19, Rebecca cycled from Switzerland to New Zealand to raise money for charity and connect with school children and Olympians along the way.
WORKING IN THE SPORT INDUSTRY
"You don't necessarily have to have studied sport or have been an athlete in order to work in sport. If you're passionate about sport and the benefits it can have in society, then any transferable skills can be applied in the sport industry. A great place to start off to boost your CV and show your enthusiasm for sport is to volunteer at a sporting event. It doesn't have to be a big one; even just a local 10km race is such a great experience!"
THE OLYMPIC GAMES
“I recently had dinner with a group of people in Paris and there was a 7 year old girl there who was so excited about the Olympic Games this summer. She had so many questions about the sport and the athletes and it reminded me of how the Games had also captured my imagination at the same age. Seeing her enthusiasm reminded me that it’s a privilege to work on the Olympic Games as a project - a project that helps to inspire young people and provides them a positive experience with good role models.”
SPEAK UP IF YOU NEED HELP
“Many athletes are now much more vocal about their mental health struggles which has helped to bring mental health issues to the forefront, not just for athletes but for the population at large. Coaches play a big role in supporting the mental health of athletes - as they spend more time with the athlete than most they can be the first to see any changes in moods and can help to facilitate a discussion with the athlete and/or seek professional help. Don't be afraid to speak up and let someone know how you feel. It's ok to say you're not ok!”
FAMILY SUPPORT
“My family and friends have been pivotal in my journey in sport, both as an athlete and as a professional. Regardless of whether I have been successful or not in achieving my goals they have been unconditional in supporting me, and also keeping me grounded to remember what is important - at the end of the day you want to be remembered for being a decent and kind person, regardless of what is on your CV!”
