Local ski coach recognised at 2023 Victorian Sport Awards

Docklands-based ski coach at the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia (OWIA), Peter McNeil, was among the winners at the 2023 Victoria Sport Awards (VSA) held on June 12.

The event celebrates and acknowledges the accomplishments of local sports heroes across Victoria, honouring individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to the Victorian sports industry as athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, volunteers, media, and clubs with the annual ceremony.

Peter McNeil was awarded this year’s Leasexpress Coach of the Year Award, which recognises coaches in Victoria who have achieved outstanding results with Victorian athletes or teams during the year.

As the coach of the mogul skiing program at the OWIA, Peter guided athletes Matt Graham and Jakara Anthony to a remarkable 13 World Cup medals in 2023, including a notable double-gold medal win at the FIS World Cup.

Matt also individually secured two medals, becoming only the second Australian to do so, while Jakara finished the season ranked number one globally, earning her third Crystal Globe trophy.

“It’s always nice to get a little bit of recognition. It’s not my reason for coaching and it’s not my priority, but it is nice to be recognised for the effort that you put in to helping people achieve their big goals, and hopefully helping athletes produce inspirational and aspirational performances that have an impact on the greater community,” Peter told Docklands News.

In addition to his coaching duties, Peter plays a crucial role in developing future coaching talent and organising training camps and events within the mogul skiing pathway.

“I really enjoy the process of going on a journey with an athlete and helping them be the best that they can be,” he said.

Two years on from coaching my first athlete, I’m sitting here coaching the Australian national team – it’s pretty exciting.

At the awards ceremony, Jakara also received the prestigious Kitty McEwan Award, honouring her outstanding achievements in the female category on national and international stages.

“For me, the awards are additional recognition that they’re having an impact in the sport and that they’re working towards achieving their goals. I’m proud of being a part of that journey,” Peter said.

“I’m grateful for being nominated, and for the ongoing recognition of athletes who are out there twelve months of the year, doing their best to become great and to inspire young Australians to do the same.” •