Ella lives by one mantra: do the things inlife that make you sparkle. From the track to the beach, from coaching tocommentating, she pours passion and energy into everything she does. A sprinter specialising in the 400m, Ella’s dedication to athletics goes beyond competition, she’s building a career around sport, coaching, media, and governance, aiming to drive positive change and inclusivity in the sporting world.
Passion and Inspiration
Growing up in a family of elite athletes, Ella’s love for sport is in grained. “Sport and particularly the athletic trackis my safe place,” she shares. “Training is my favourite part of the day. It teaches discipline, resilience, and confidence, trusting my abilities, my decisions, and who I am as a person.”
Standout Moments
Ella recalls special moments on and off the track: beating her dad in a split 400m session, and racing at Zatopek 2023 in the women’s 4x400m Victorian State Championships alongside her mentor Morgan Mitchell and her sister Honour. “Crossing the line and embracing my sister still gives me goosebumps,” she says. These experiences highlight her competitive drive, dedication, and love for teamwork.
Leadership in Action
Though she doesn’t hold formal leadership titles, Ella sees herself as a role model for young athletes she coaches and peers around her. “It’s more about how I deal with challenges and setbacks, and showing others how to rise above them,” she explains. She has learned to balance her energy and enthusiasm with awareness of how her approach impactsthose around her.
Empowered to Lead Program
Ella joined the Empowered to Leadprogram seeking personal and professional growth. “I signed up blindly andthought, why not?” she says. The experience exceeded expectations, providing acommunity of women who were open, vulnerable, and committed to change. Sheapplies lessons daily, including operating above and below the line to manage emotional responses and expectations during setbacks.
Looking Ahead
Ella wants to continue inspiring others while exploring opportunities in sport media, governance, and leadership. “It’s about showing up, putting my best foot forward, and hopefully inspiring others to dothe same,” she says. She believes spotlighting female leaders and athletes iskey to creating role models for the next generation.
What Playing Like a Girl Means
“To play like a girl is showing up unapologetically as yourself, fierce, ferocious, and deeply committed to thegrind. It’s about leading with heart, loving the process as much as the outcome, and knowing you belong,” Ella says. Her philosophy embodies grit, passion, and community, inspiring others to embrace their own strength and potential.
Acknowledging Our Partners
Ella expresses gratitude to corporate partners supporting women’s leadership in sport: “Receiving a fully funded opportunitylike this has given me the space to invest in myself as an athlete, leader, and person. Your support doesn’t just open doors, it empowers women to believe in themselves and take up space.”
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