Athletics NSW appoints Para Liaison Coordinator thanks to partnership with Maple Services

Athletics NSW (ANSW) is proud to announce its newest appointment Matt Rawlings as Para-Liaison Coordinator reinforcing our commitment to promoting inclusivity in Para Athletics. 

This role made possible through ANSW's Health and Wellbeing partner Maple Services, represents a significant leap forward in a shared mission to empower athletes of all abilities. 

Rawlings, a former junior high-performance, Australian track and field athlete and an accredited level two coach is no stranger to the world of athletics, his journey spanning nearly a quarter of a century as a volunteer athletics coach at the Hills Athletics Club earning him a reputation as a dedicated mentor and an asset to the sport. 

Working closely with the NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS) and as a team coach of National and International teams, consistently demonstrating a passion for nurturing high-performance athletes. His coaching has guided many athletes to achieve world rankings. 

As an advocate for para-sports, Rawlings has dedicated his time and skills to the Australian Paralympic Committee during Talent search days and in 2012 led the ANSW Target Talent Program for athletes with disabilities an acknowledgment of his ability to understand and nurture athletes.

ANSW Chief Executive Christian Renford has welcomed the appointment stating, "Athletics NSW firmly believes that Rawlings's wealth of experience and dedication will have a lasting impact.”

“The appointment of Matt is just another step forward as we, together with Maple Services, continue to create a more inclusive sport and ensure athletes of all abilities receive the support and opportunities they rightfully deserve.”

To further its commitment to inclusivity, Athletics NSW will now establish a Para-Advisory Committee. The purpose of the Para-Advisory Committee will be to serve as a platform to enhance inclusivity, representation, and development of para-athletics as well as facilitate collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the comprehensive growth of para-athletics programs and initiatives in NSW. To express your interest, please click here.