Danni Roche taking positives from unsuccessful AOC presidential challenge

SHE might have been beaten by John Coates, but Danni Roche says here challenge for the AOC presidency has opened up a conversation about the future direction of Australian sport.

A defiant Danni Roche fronts the media after the AOC presidential vote count.

VANQUISHED but far from crushed, Danni Roche has taken solace in Australian Olympic Committee presidential defeat.

Roche faced the media in the wake of a 58-35 loss to incumbent John Coates, who is shaping to secure his preferred ticket with the re-election of deputies Helen Brownlee and Ian Chesterman.

RE-CAP: HOW COATES BEAT ROCHE

TOUGH GIG: THE MAMMOTH CHALLENGE FACING COATES

Congratulations to John Coates on his re-election as AOC President. I wish the entire @AUSOlympicTeam every success in the future #AOCvotes

— Danni Roche OAM (@danniroche1) May 6, 2017

“We have started a much-needed conversation about the future direction of Australian sport and the responsibility the Australian Olympic committee has in supporting its member sports and their athletes,” Roche said.

The first challenger to Coates in his 27-year reign is far from bowed.

A defiant Danni Roche fronts the media after the AOC presidential vote count.

“A record number of candidates for executive board positions is proof that the sports feel empowered to make their voice heard in discussions that are critical to their future, and the future of their movement,” Roche said.

“There is clearly a strong desire for change.

“There is a desire for the AOC to place a greater focus on providing for sports and athletes, and for it to have a more collaborative relationship with its national federations and the Australian Sports Commission.

AOC result: Absolute majority. 93 votes cast, 58 for Coates; 35 for Roche

— Leo Schlink (@LeoSchlink) May 6, 2017

“The national federations have a stronger voice than they have had in decades.

“The AOC is their Olympic committee, and I encourage them to continue to advocate for what is important to them

“I’d thank the board of Hockey Australia, and its President Mel Woosnam, for nominating me.

“Their’s was the first nomination for an alternative President in 27 years.

“It took a tremendous amount of courage and it paved the way for a record number of nominations for Executive Board positions.

John Coates fought off Roche’s challenge to win another term as AOC president. Picture: Getty Images

“I have received an overwhelming amount of support from sports, athletes and my peer Olympians.

“I would like to thank all of those involved in the administration and boards of Australia’s Olympic sports, for giving me the opportunity and the time to present my vision.

“There are so many talented and dedicated people who are committed to delivering the best for their athletes.

“Their passion and dedication is inspiring, and it will inspire me to continue to contribute to Australian sport into the future.”

Originally published as Danni Roche taking positives from unsuccessful AOC presidential challenge