Hackett to help Green reach goals
GOLD Coast kayaker Tom Green says his sporting dreams are a step closer after joining forces with Olympic great Grant Hackett.
As part of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame 2020 Scholarship and Mentoring Program, five of Australia’s most promising athletes have been allocated to pair with some of the nation’s greats for the next 14 months.
The selected athletes will also receive extra funding.
Green will have three-time Olympic gold medallist Hackett in his corner as the highly rated 20-year-old powers towards his own Games legacy.
“Being mentored by Grant Hackett, a sporting great, is a privilege that will help make my sporting dreams a reality,” under-23 world kayak champion Green said.
“The opportunity to learn from someone who has been there and who has experienced the ups and downs of elite competition and can share their lessons learned with me is simply priceless.
“I look forward to making the most out of this opportunity and I thank everyone involved for their consideration.
“I hope to one day be able to mentor others to help them chase their dreams no matter how big.”
Hackett said he was “very grateful” for the opportunity.
“Providing perspective through experience allows any athlete a greater chance of reaching their full potential,” the 39-year-old said.
Paddle Australia CEO Phil Jones called Green’s nod “well deserved”.
Boxer Jack Denahy, 20, will be mentored by squash great Sarah Fitz-Gerald, water skier Sade Ferguson, 16, is with surf lifesaver Kristy Munroe, cyclist Luke Plapp, 18, teams with swimmer Libby Trickett, and skateboarder Hayley Wilson will be helped by AFL legend Kevin Sheedy.