Women shifting the sporting landscape in NSW have been honoured at the first ever Her Sport Her Way Awards gala dinner in Sydney.
Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee said six winners were announced across four categories with NRL Women’s Elite Program general manager Tiffany Slater receiving the highest accolade, the Her Sport Her Way Champion award.
“Tiffany has been the driving force behind the success of women’s rugby league and is a role model who exemplifies all the qualities of a true champion,” Mr Lee said.
“Tiffany can be proud of the continued rapid growth of women’s elite rugby league in NSW and indeed across the country.”
The Her Sport Her Way Champion award recognises outstanding achievements and commitment to furthering opportunities for women and girls to participate in sport.
“It’s a great moment for the NSW Government to recognise Tiffany’s achievements because they are having a direct impact on grassroots rugby league, as girls continue to take-up the sport and aspire to be elite athletes,” Mr Lee said.
Under Slater’s leadership, women are now being paid more to play rugby league and women’s rugby league matches were the most watched women’s sports programs in 2019.
“I feel privileged to be able to play a role in shaping the future of women’s rugby league and contributing to the growth of women’s sport and gender equality more broadly,” Ms Slater said.
“I am honoured to receive this award which represents the hard work of many people over a number of years that has brought women’s rugby league to where it is today.”
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said she was delighted to see women leading the way in sport and getting the recognition they deserve.
“These awards are another example of the fantastic ways we are acknowledging the incredible achievements of women and young girls during NSW Women's Week. These awesome athletes are not only wonderful role models but genuine heroes to a
new generation of fans.“
Her Sport Her Way is the NSW Government's vision for the future of women in sport. It features 29 initiatives that aim to increase participation, fund female-friendly facilities, maximise investment and increase the number of women in leadership.
Her Sport Her Way Award winners
CHAMPION: Tiffany Slater, NRL Women's Elite Program, General Manager
Recognises a woman for her outstanding achievements and their commitment to furthering opportunities for women and girls to participate in sport.
TRAILBLAZERS:
- Alex Blackwell, cricket pioneer and LGBTQI advocate
- Carolyn Campbell, CEO Netball NSW
- Dr Johanna Adriaanse, UTS academic, International Women’s Group on Women and Sport
Recognises up to three women whose exceptional long-term efforts have advanced the opportunities
for women and girls in sport. These women have left a legacy for their sport and may have retired.
YOUNG ACHIEVER: Claudia Bell - NSW Rugby Union Development Officer
Recognises an individual under 25 who has made a significant contribution to the advancement of women or girls in sport.
OUTSTANDING ORGANISATION: Northern NSW Football
Recognises an organisation’s significant contribution to the advancement of women’s sport.
For more information: www.sport.nsw.gov.au/her-sport-her-way-awards