The Aussie Athlete Fund (AAF) recently concluded its 2024 $1 Million Challenge, an initiative aimed at alleviating financial barriers for athletes through education, fundraising support, and business partnerships. The challenge, powered by Ampol, has helped athletes build financially sustainable careers on and off the field, rewarding the top fundraisers for their efforts. The winners were announced yesterday during a Playa Power workshop taking place at Meta’s offices in Sydney.
Five athletes were honoured for their exceptional contributions, each receiving a $5,000 donation and an opportunity to join the Elevate 20 Program, furthering their financial literacy and growth.
Josh Bell: Biggest Fundraiser
NSW Olympian Josh Bell raised $25,964.76, making him the largest fundraiser of the challenge. The funds, which contributed towards his training and travel, highlighted the growing financial pressures on athletes competing at elite levels. Bell’s fundraising success was a result of his personal outreach and the ongoing support from his network, as well as the example set by Swiss tennis legend Roger Federer, whom he admires for his humanitarian efforts.
Josh Wood: Most Innovative Fundraiser
At just 17, blind golfer Josh Wood, from Brisbane, raised over $20,000 with an inventive campaign that included a golf day event, QR code-labelled chocolates, and thank-you cards in braille. The campaign’s success was driven by strong community involvement, including Pacific Golf Club, which helped promote the event and encourage donations. Wood’s initiative was not only financially successful but also highlighted the power of telling a compelling personal story to engage supporters.
Emelia Surch: Best News Media Campaign
21-year-old heptathlete Emelia Surch leveraged media exposure through major outlets like Code Sports and the Gold Coast Bulletin to raise over $12,000. The coverage helped her connect with donors, including a Sydney-based benefactor who pledged $1,000 and expressed interest in future support. Surch’s use of media shows the importance of strategic press outreach in driving both awareness and contributions.
Alexandra Haydon: Best Social Media Campaign
Squash player Alexandra Haydon’s engaging social media presence helped her raise over $4,500. By leveraging platforms like Instagram and Facebook, Haydon promoted the $1 Million Challenge and her personal journey, partnering with other athletes and brands. Her campaign demonstrated the value of creating interactive and collaborative content, essential for growing an athlete’s personal brand and fundraising success.
Aislin Jones: Ampol All Rounder
Olympic shooter Aislin Jones from Shepparton, Victoria, was recognised for her overall contribution to the challenge. Raising nearly $20,000 and excelling across all fundraising platforms, Jones demonstrated versatility and commitment to her personal and professional growth. Her success reflects the broader benefits of the $1 Million Challenge, as it provided athletes like Jones with not just financial support, but a broader network and enhanced media presence.
The $1 Million Challenge has proven to be more than a fundraising initiative. It’s a critical tool for athletes seeking to navigate the financial realities of elite sport, while also strengthening their personal brands and networks. With its continued success, the program plays an essential role in developing a more sustainable athlete economy in Australia.
As the initiative progresses, the AAF continues to foster connections between athletes and businesses, helping to turn the dream of financial stability into a reality for more athletes across various sports.
Congratulations to all the winners!
