Sports

From Olympic Coach & Glory to Greater Things

By this time, the “Australian Olympic Committee” (AOC) were starting to take note of Lawrie’s corporate motivational speaking activities. I had suggested he was becoming an unofficial Ambassador for the Olympic movement in Australia. No other person identified with the Olympics had enjoyed so much time in front of Corporate Australia as Lawrie. Companies employing his services were often past or present Olympic games team sponsors and / or potential sponsors. Corporate Australia liked what he did and how he went about it, and the AOC was getting positive feedback.

They had plans for Lawrie; they recognised his special ability to motivate people. In1996 the AOC announced his appointment as an Australian Olympic Team liaison officer ( the first ever) for the  Barcelona Olympics.

Ever since, he has carried out this role (others have also been appointed, due to its value in the eyes of the athletes) at every Olympic games.You’ve no doubt seen him on TV during some of the events. He seems to be everywhere. Athletes of all ages see him as approachable. A person who combines his experience and expert knowledge with a positive attitude to help them be, the best they can be.
                                                                                                                                                        
Of course, not everyone can be a winner. After years of gut wrenching work and personal sacrifice, the disappointment felt by some athletes can be quite overwhelming. As correctly identified by the AOC, these are times when an experienced Liaison Officer can play an important role in helping an athlete through a rough emotional period.

Every member of the Australian team knows they can depend on Lawrie being there for them. Reassuring them while picking up the pieces, focusing on the positives, re-igniting the spirit, always looking forward with words of support and encouragement.

Many years ago I wrote a letter of recommendation to the Queensland “Father of the Year Committee” when nominations were invited. A few months later, Lawrie was honoured as the State’s “Father of the Year.” Through his Olympic work he has become something of a father figure while away to many of our finest athletes, not just the swimmers. They appreciate his sense of fun and his larrikin approach to life. Australians particularly remember Sydney 2000 and Lawrie with his loud hailer. He seemed to be everywhere, cheering the athletes on with the rallying cry, Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oy, Oy, Oy.That’s Lawrie Lawrence, smack bang in his element and living his dream.                                                                                                                                                       

One day I asked Jocelyn Lawrence about Lawrie’s special ability to relate to young people. With a knowing smile she replied, “Oh that’s easy, John. He’s never grown up. Lawrie’s just a big kid at heart.” 

Today, Lawrie Lawrence, devoted husband, father, and water safety guru, is the most sought after motivational speaker in the country. Year after year he continues to work hard to limit infant deaths by drowning and his “Kids Alive Do the Five” program is still alive and well in every Australian State.
                                                                                                                          
During my dealings with Lawrie Lawrence he came to appreciate the power and value of planning, organization and management outside swimming. It adds credence to his message to aspiring champions.“That talent alone, will not win the Gold.”

Lawrie’s travelled many a road since making that career changing decision in 1988. He rolled the dice of Life and came up trumps. With Jocelyn by his side lending wise and loving support, he continues to follow his dream. 

A reminder to us all –  That fortune indeed, favours the brave!

© Copyright John Hay
Brisbane Queensland Australia
All rights reserved

email: john@tellingthoughts.com

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