Sporting heroes Layne Beachley, Cathy Freeman and Steve Waugh paid a special visit to the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Indigenous Sports Program (ISP) surfing project in Jan Juc, Victoria in February.

The Australian athletes were joined by American all-round water superstar Robby Naish, and legendary UK decathlete Daley Thompson.

Children from the Wathaurong community took to the Jan Juc beach with the five sporting heroes. Beach activities included traditional Indigenous games, lessons on surfing techniques, and advice on water safety and ocean awareness.

All five of the visiting sport superstars are members of the Laureus World Sports Academy. Laureus’ Sport for Good Foundation is a key supporter of the ASC’s ISP, which works to increase the number of Indigenous people participating in sport at all levels.

During the visit, it was announced that Laureus would double their current contribution to the ISP, which has also been extended for three years.

Director of the ASC’s Community Sport division Judy Flanagan said that the extra funding ‘means more opportunities for Indigenous people to play, coach and organise sport.’

‘This funding will be used wisely and will assist the many organisations and communities that the ASC works with,’ said Flanagan.

Laureus supports ISP initiatives by providing funding for additional coaching/officiating training opportunities, purchasing necessary sports equipment and improving the opportunities for enabling Indigenous Australians from regional and remote communities to maintain long-term involvement in sport.

All Laureus World Sports Academy members use their services to promote the use of sport as a tool for social change.

2001 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Cathy Freeman said that ‘the Indigenous Sports Program is something very close to my heart and I am delighted that so many people are here to support our work to help the Indigenous community. This really can make a difference to these young people.’