Women in sport aren’t smiling fitness models, they are gladiators says Bronte Campbell

Australia’s top athletes have thrown their weight behind a new award aiming to change the face, perception and image of women in sport

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Australia’s top athletes have thrown their weight behind a new award aiming to change the face, perception and image of women in sport.

The strength, skill, fitness, grit and concentration of women athletes will be the focus of the new Women in Sport Photo Action Awards (WISPAA) .

Australia’s top athletes - including Jessica Fox, Sam Kerr, Alyssa Healey, Caitlin Bassett, Bronte Campbell, Jenna O’Hea, Ellia Green, Katie Brennan and Kim Brennan - have all backed the initiative aiming to increase the visibility of their sports and an accurate portrayal of sportswomen.

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“There is a need to showcase the strength, skill and athleticism of our amazing Australian sportswomen to create strong, body positive role models for young women to show what is possible,’’ said Brennan, captain of AFLW premiership winning Western Bulldogs.

Sam Kerr playing for Perth Glory.

Diamonds captain Caitlin Bassett.

“The beauty of female athletes is they come in all shapes and sizes depending on their sport. This shows young women that no matter how you are made up, you are beautiful, strong and powerful. We should continue to empower women with the message that strong is beautiful.’’

Women Sport Australia (WSA), the national advocacy body for women in sport, has launched WISPAA to celebrating athleticism, strength and skill of women in sport.

There will be two award categories - one for professional photographers and one for amateur photographers - who can submit up to three photos of Australian sportswomen over the age of 18 in action.

Jessica Fox is one of our top athletes supporting the awards.

“Women in sport aren’t smiling fitness models, they are gladiators,” said triple world swim champion Campbell.

Opals captain Jenna O’Hea said it is crucial there are strong role models for women.

“You can’t be what you can’t see. It’s important, especially for young girls in particular, to have role models and to see them in action, playing and excelling at their chosen sport,’’ she said.

Alyssa Healey hitting winning runs.

Katie Brennan in action.

“The choices and opportunities for girls and women in sport continue to grow, but there is still a drop-off at a certain age and this is a barrier we need to break down. Showing our elite level female athletes as tough, fit and active participants will help encourage younger athletes to continue working hard and aiming to reach their goals.”

For further details and to enter go to WSA’s dedicated #WISPAA website: ww.wispaa.com.au to win prizes supplied by Nikon.