Australian Institute of Sport seeks 2026 athlete ambassadors

Current and retired athletes are encouraged to put their name forward for two community programs kicking off in early 2026.  

The first is the AIS Mental Fitness Program (MFP) which sees athletes deliver crucial talks to thousands of students around the country.  

Paralympic archer and 2025 ambassador Ameera Lee said there is real power in sharing the struggles and sacrifices all athletes face.  

“Don’t underestimate the weight that your voice, journey and story carries,” Lee said. 

A sentiment Australian alpine skier Sammie Gaul agrees with following her trip to Townsville.   

“It’s given me the chance to use my story in a way that has an impact beyond sport. Being able to inspire and empower others in the community also gives me strength and motivation in return.” 

Athletes undertake training with the Black Dog Institute, opens in a new tab before delivering eight sessions tailored around their schedules.  

“Although I have competed overseas on four separate occasions this year, I have still found managing the commitments of this program relatively simple and I would 100% do it again,” Australian gymnast Aiden Frick said.  

Applications have also opened for the AIS Problem Solvers Program which sees athletes present primary school students with a real-world sporting challenge that encourages outside-the-box thinking.  

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to visit schools and speak with future problem solvers about how we can create meaningful change, not just in sport and their given problem, but in their own lives as well,” Olympic kayaker Yale Steinepreis said. 

Australian Rower and World Cup medallist Lucy Coleman said the program- which is available online or in person- is also an opportunity for students to learn about a career in sport.  

“Growing up, making a career of your sporting passion was never really spoken about and so I think it’s great that we can normalise the conversation through this program.”  

Applications close November 11, and take it from the athletes, don’t wait… 

“Absolutely do it! You’ll learn so much about yourself, you’ll build skills that will stay with you long after your sporting career, and you’ll be part of something that genuinely makes a difference,” Gaul says. “It doesn’t feel like a job; it’s rewarding, fun, and something you’ll truly look forward to being part of.’  

Apply now: Athlete Engagement Programs | Australian Sports Commission 

The AIS Problem Solvers Program is proudly supported by HART Sport, Australia’s leading supplier of sporting equipment and training aids.