O’Loughlin joins NSW Hall of Fame
Former Sydney Swan and AIS/AFL Head Coach Michael O’Loughlin has become a member of a highly distinguished group of athletes following his induction into the NSW Hall of Champions at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre.
O’Loughlin was inducted alongside Layne Beachley (Surfing), Brad McGee OAM (Cycling), Rex Johnston OAM (Lawn Bowls) and Andrew Johns (Rugby League).
The Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham Annesley, said it’s a great recognition of their contribution to their respective sports.
“It’s my privilege to honour these five outstanding sports people who thoroughly deserve their place amongst the nation’s best,” Annesley said.
“These athletes have excelled in competition but more importantly continue to be great ambassadors for our State, country and the sport they represent.
“Today’s honourees will be joining other great Australian sporting legends like Dawn Fraser, Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Jack Brabham, Evonne Goolagong-Cawley and the legendary Dally Messenger.
“Like the inductees who preceded them, I’m sure today’s athletes will also be enduring role models for other aspiring athletes, sports enthusiasts and the wider community.”
As the State’s premier sporting hall of fame and museum, the NSW Hall of Champions pays tribute to the outstanding achievements of sportsmen and women.
The NSW Hall of Champions was established in 1978 and honours sports people dating back to 1876, with 336 athletes representing 50 different sports recognised in this prestigious hall of champions.
Exhibitions showcasing the museum’s significant collection of memorabilia also help to bring the state’s rich sporting heritage to life.
“It is fitting recognition of Michael’s contribution and more broadly the impact the Sydney Swans have had over time. Michael was an outstanding player and is developing as a tremendous coach and mentor. He has come from an outstanding environment at the Swans,” David Matthews, AFL General Manager – National & International Development said.
The Sydney Swans’ games record-holder was appointed in 2010 as the AFL high performance coach of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) AFL Academy and in 2009 establish the Goodes-O’Loughlin Foundation with Sydney Swans co Captain Adam Goodes which aims to help Indigenous Australians set and achieve life goals.
