The AOC has congratulated four-time Olympic softballer Tanya Harding and basketball coach Adrian Hurley on their induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (SAHOF).
Tanya and Adrian were announced yesterday as two of the nine SAHOF inductees for 2022, which honours Australia’s greatest sporting achievements.
Tanya is an Australian softball icon, competing and medalling at four consecutive Olympics from Atlanta 1996 to Beijing 2008.
An outstanding pitcher who thrived under pressure, Tanya’s one silver and three bronze medals puts her in rare air, as one of only four softballers in the world to medal in four Olympic Games.
Adrian was a key part of three Australian Olympic basketball campaigns, as Boomers head coach in 1988 and 1992 and assistant coach in 1984. Adrian made history as the first head coach to take the Boomers to the medal playoffs at an Olympic Games, finishing fourth in Seoul 1988.
AOC President Ian Chesterman applauded Tanya and Adrian on their achievements.
“Congratulations to Tanya and Adrian on their induction to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame,” Mr Chesterman said.
“This is a fantastic recognition of the outstanding contribution they have made to the Australian sporting landscape over decades of competing and coaching.
“To make one Olympic Team is an amazing achievement, but to compete and medal at four consecutive Games is a truly rare feat. Tanya not only proved she was in the top echelon of world softballers, but inspired so many young Australians to chase their own dreams on the softball field.
“With decades coaching basketball at all levels, including at three Olympics, Adrian has had an immense impact on the sport in this country.
“Congratulations again to Tanya and Adrian, to their families, friends and teammates, and the Australian softball and basketball communities who will be joining in celebrating this achievement.”
