Griffith University is proud to announce a new partnership with the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), naming the Queensland education institution an "Australian Olympic Pathway University" recognising its longstanding commitment to supporting elite athletes combining academic and sporting pursuits.
The partnership will result in increased financial and academic support for student athletes including significant scholarships worth up to $40,000 along with offering credit and pathways into many degrees at Griffith.
Griffith has a distinguished history of athlete support, having produced more Olympians than any other Australian university across the past three Olympic Games.
This partnership formally recognises the University's exceptional and flexible support systems that enable Olympians and aspiring Olympians to compete at the highest level while successfully undertaking their studies.
Griffith left an indelible mark on the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games setting a new benchmark for university sports achievements on the global stage.
With 50 athletes comprising students, alumni, and swimming squad members competing, the University contributed 36 medals including 12 gold, 11 silver and 13 bronze.
The partnership, which will run until 2027, will further strengthen Griffith's role as a leader in dual career pathways, ensuring athletes are well-equipped for success during and beyond their sporting careers.
Griffith University Vice Chancellor and President Professor Carolyn Evans said the collaboration reflects our deep commitment to helping elite athletes thrive both in their sport and in the classroom.
"We're proud to continue providing the tailored support that allows them to pursue excellence in every aspect of their journey."
Australian Olympic Committee CEO, Mark Arbib, said this is a landmark University partnership that places athlete education, wellbeing, career development, and future success at its core.
"Griffith is putting dollars on the table to help our athletes. This agreement ensures more Olympians will have the opportunity to gain scholarships at Griffith and recognises the University's outstanding sporting and training facilities, and flexible study schedules."
Additionally, all Olympians potentially will be eligible for recognised prior learning (RPL) credit towards a range of Griffith degrees, acknowledging the valuable skills and experiences gained through their sporting careers.
This initiative not only honours their achievements but also provides a more flexible and supportive pathway into higher education.
Griffith Sports College Director Naomi McCarthy OAM said this recognition reflects the high-level competencies Olympians develop through years of training and competition.
"We offer a system that values their unique experiences and helps them transition into academic life with confidence."
QUOTES FROM CURRENT GRIFFITH SPORTS COLLEGE STUDENTS
Shayna Jack Swimming Gold Medal Olympian Paris 2024 and B Criminology and Criminal Justice student:
"Griffith has been an incredible pillar of support throughout my swimming career, offering guidance, resources, and even scholarship assistance that has allowed me to chase my sporting dreams while pursuing my education. Their belief in me has made it possible to excel in the pool and the classroom, and I'm grateful for the balance they've helped me maintain."
Zac Stubblety-Cook - Swimming Gold Medallist and dual Olympian 2020 and 2024, B Business student:
"One of my beliefs is that you are a person before you are an athlete. With the support of Griffith Sports College, I can facilitate this philosophy. The Sports College has given me the ability to study whilst competing or training on the other side of the world, allowing me to pursue a sporting career whilst also preparing for a future after swimming."
Charlize Andrews Water Polo Silver Medallist and Paris 2024 Olympian, B Nursing student:
"As an athlete balancing study, work and training can be very challenging. Fortunately, Griffith University has an amazing sport college that is very supportive to its elite athletes. During my Olympic preparation and campaign Griffith was extremely flexible with my study commitments and provided fantastic support during a stressful period."
