Congratulations to Dawn Baira – Aspire to be Deadly Hockey Coach selected to participate in the Australian Olympic Indigenous Coaching Scholarship (AOICS) Program.November 14, 2023

Dawn Baira has been integral in the advancement and support of hockey through Tagai State College and Migi Kokan Deadly 5’s Program for over 10 years. Part of the Aspire Empower Me Program, Dawn has supported and been actively involved in local and regional hockey program development across the Torres Strait Island Region.

Dawn works with Wes Ferns to ensure hockey skill development, pathways and competition opportunity remains a priority across the Torres Strait Island region and is the hockey coach on Badu Island.

Dawn has coordinated and managed the Badu Island Teams competing in the Migi Kokan Deadly 5’s hockey carnival each year on Horns Island, has assisted in the talent identification programs and is committed to being part of pathway programs from Torres Strait Islands to Peninsula School Sport whenever the opportunity presents.

Dawn is travelling to Northern Territory this week for workshops supporting the Australian Olympic Indigenous Coaching Scholarship (AOICS). The aim of the AOICS program is to provide high-level professional development, education, and formal training to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Olympic sport coaches. Who upon completion, will be accredited to deliver ongoing coach development courses and pass on their knowledge in Indigenous communities across Australia.

Thanks to Hockey Australia for offering this opportunity. It is made possible as a result of a MOU signed between Hockey Australia and Aspire Cairns Community Limited ACCL/Aspire earlier this year.

Hockey Australia are proud to continue to collaborate and support ACCL/Aspire with multiple opportunities and events in 2023. We thank ACCL/Aspire for their ongoing contribution to our RAP Working Group and specific support and advice around engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth. Melissa Gmeiner Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Manager |  Hockey Australia