Geelong athletics coach Anula Costa has been recognised with one of Australian sports' highest honours, receiving the Humanitarian Award from Athletics Australia for her outstanding community work and dedication to supporting refugees through sport.
Transformative Community Leadership
Anula Costa, who coaches at the Geelong Region Athletics club, was presented with the award during Athletics Australia's annual ceremony in Melbourne. The prestigious recognition celebrates her remarkable efforts in using athletics as a vehicle for social change and community integration.
The Sri Lankan-born coach has become a cornerstone of Geelong's sporting community, particularly known for her work with newly arrived refugees and migrants. Her programs have helped countless individuals find their footing in a new country through the universal language of sport.
Building Bridges Through Sport
Costa's coaching philosophy extends far beyond track and field performance. She has developed innovative programs that address social isolation, promote cultural understanding, and provide safe spaces for people from diverse backgrounds to connect.
"What Anula has achieved in our community is nothing short of extraordinary," said a representative from Athletics Australia. "She doesn't just coach athletes; she builds confidence, creates belonging, and transforms lives through her compassionate approach to sport."
Her work includes:
- Establishing free athletics programs for refugee families
- Creating cultural exchange events through sports days
- Mentoring young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds
- Developing inclusive coaching methods that accommodate language barriers
Recognition and Impact
The Humanitarian Award represents national acknowledgment of Costa's decade-long commitment to community development through athletics. Her programs have engaged hundreds of participants across the Geelong region, with many former participants now returning as volunteer coaches and mentors.
"This award isn't just for me—it's for everyone who has believed in the power of sport to bring people together," Costa said after receiving the honour. "When we welcome someone to the track, we're not just teaching them how to run; we're showing them they belong here."
The recognition from Athletics Australia highlights the growing importance of community engagement and social responsibility within Australian sports organisations. Costa's work serves as a model for how athletic clubs can play a vital role in addressing social issues and building stronger, more inclusive communities.
As Costa continues her work in Geelong, she hopes her recognition will inspire other coaches and sporting organisations to look beyond competition results and consider how they can make meaningful differences in their communities.
