Adelaide University Sport Celebrates National Recognition at 2025 Pride in Sport Awards
Published Wed 09 Apr 2025
We’re proud to share that Adelaide University Sport and Fitness has been named a finalist in two national categories at the 2025 Australian Pride in Sport Awards.
These awards recognise the incredible efforts of individuals, clubs and organisations across Australia who are leading the way in creating safer and more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ people in sport. For us, it’s recognition that inclusion isn't just a box to tick, it's something we work on every day across programs, events, and culture.
Daniel Lawlor – Finalist: Executive Leadership Award
One of those driving forces is Daniel Lawlor, our Manager of Sport Development, who’s a finalist for the Executive Leadership Award.
Dan’s leadership has helped embed LGBTQ+ inclusion into the core of what we do - whether it’s supporting clubs to be more inclusive, helping our team upskill, or simply encouraging conversation around belonging in sport.
His impact is visible in the way we show up for our community, and this is a well-deserved recognition to the leadership, energy, and care he brings to the role every day. We're so proud to see him recognised on a national stage.
Play with Pride Brunch – Finalist: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Innovation Award
We’re also excited to see our inaugural Play with Pride Brunch shortlisted for the LGBTQ+ Inclusive Innovation Award.
The idea started and was conceived by Dan Lawlor, around a conversation about visibility and celebration - and became a flagship event with a turnaround of just 12 weeks. Held on June 27, 2024, at SkyCity Adelaide, the brunch was designed to connect students, athletes, allies and community leaders around a shared goal: to make sport more inclusive for all.
With Jarrod Walsh as MC, a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and honest, insightful discussions, the event quickly became more than a brunch - it was a moment of reflection, connection, and momentum.
It also marked the start of what will become an annual event that grows with our community. The feedback was clear: this is something people want and need, and we’re committed to building on it.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Pride in Sport Awards will be held on Wednesday 16 April at CENTREPIECE in Melbourne, celebrating achievements in LGBTQ+ inclusion across all levels of Australian sport.
Team members from AUSF will be there to support Dan (and our event) and enjoy the evening. No matter the outcome, we’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved - not just by Dan and the brunch working party, but by every student, staff member, volunteer and partner who continues to make inclusion a lived value in our sporting community. Stay tuned for further updates!
*Photo credit: Pride in Sport AustraliaWe look forward to announcing our 2025 Play with Pride event date soon!
