Hockey Wales are pleased to announce Sarah Jones’ appointment to the Team Wales Athletes Commission for the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games Cycle.
13 athletes across 11 sports have been selected as part of the new Athletes Commission (AC). The group will work closely with the Commonwealth Games Board members to give advice and provide feedback on a variety of athlete centred topics.
The successful AC members were appointed following nominations from their National Governing Bodies and selection by the CGW board
Sarah has competed in the past three Commonwealth Games where this summer the side finished 8th to equal their best ever Commonwealth Standing.
The AC will consider matters that impact on athletes, canvass opinion and guide solutions to ensure the CGW board are fully informed on the services required to support athletes before and during games. They will also AC will actively review and support the work of CGW on all relevant matters relating to CGW Games planning and policy as requested by the board, such as, anti doping, social media, team events, code of conduct, clothing and village experience.
Speaking on her appointment Sarah said:
“‘’Having represented Wales in three Commonwealth Games, I am thrilled to now have the opportunity to shape what Victoria 2026 will look like for Team Wales athletes. The feeling of representing Team Wales is unrivalled and I am always so proud of the atmosphere that the Athletes Commission helps cultivate. Looking ahead, I’m looking forward to working alongside a brilliant group of athletes from a variety of sports and using our experience to create a memorable and successful Commonwealth Games for Wales.’’
Cathy Williams, CGW Head of Engagement who is the executive lead for the AC added:
‘’The make up of athletes we have within the Athletes Commission is key for us. Within the multi sport environment we delve into every aspect of the athlete life experience from the journey to get selected, right through to village life during the competition and post Games. The AC will help empower the athlete voice in the decision making process. During the Birmingham cycle we were fortunate to have such a hands on and motivated group of athletes, and looking at the names this time round, I’m confident we can replicate the success of ensuring the athletes voice is heard.’’
Hockey Wales’ Performance Director Kevin Johnson stated:
“It was extremely pleasing to be informed of Sarah Jones’ appointment onto the Team Wales Athletes commission for this next Commonwealth Games cycle. As a player who has represented Team Wales in the last 3 Commonwealth Games editions alongside being a Bronze medalist with GB in the last Olympic Games, she has a huge amount to offer and I have no doubt that she will conduct herself in this role with the same level of passion, professionalism and commitment that we have enjoyed seeing on the pitch.”
All at Hockey Wales wish Sarah the best in her new appointment and look forward to seeing what she can accomplish in the role.