“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.

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!”