Four sailors have been selected for the latest round of the Australian Institute of Sport’s (AIS) Athlete Education Scholarship (AES). Delivered in partnership with the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation – the philanthropic organisation founded by former Australian Sports Commission Chair John Wylie AC – the AES will support 65 athletes this year, the highest number to date. 

Since 2020, the AES has provided more than $719,000 to 230 athletes pursuing higher education. This year, sailors Brin Liddell, Jamie Randall, Jarrod Jones, and Niamh Meehan will benefit from the scholarship as they balance their academic pursuits with elite competition. 

Brin Liddell, who is studying a Bachelor of Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Newcastle, shared how the scholarship supports his Olympic ambitions: “Receiving financial support allows me to focus entirely on winning an Olympic medal, giving me the flexibility to optimise my training, recovery, and competition schedule without the added stress of having to work.”  

The Paris 2024 Olympian added, “It also ensures that I can fully engage with my studies, gaining the business knowledge and skills necessary to build a career after sport.” 

The AES compliments the $20.8 million in direct financial support (dAIS) and a range of other programs available to athletes thanks to the Australian Government investment in high performance sport. 

“Supporting athletes is not just about investing in their performance, but also their wellbeing, education and future beyond sport,” ASC Executive General Manager of AIS Performance Matti Clements said.   

“We’re proud to partner with the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation and deliver the Athlete Education Scholarship program, which supports the holistic development of athletes.   

“It’s incredibly encouraging to see a record number of recipients this year, including more Para-athletes than ever before.”  

Director of the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation, John Wylie AC said:  “High perormance athletes dedicate so much of themselves in the pursuit of sporting excellence. It's an incredible commitment, but one that often comes with personal and financial sacrifices along the way.   

“The Athlete Education Scholarship program is a way to give back, helping athletes prepare for life beyond sport through investment in their education.   

“Myriam and I are proud to support this year’s recipients and encourage others to contribute however they can, to build a stronger future for athletes beyond their competitive careers.”  

The Australian Sailing Team thanks the AIS for its continued support in helping athletes manage the demands of elite sport while preparing for careers beyond competition. 

Find out more about the Athlete Education Scholarship and ways you can support Australian athletes.  

Australian Sailing Athlete Education Scholarship recipients: