On Sunday, 18 May, Triathlon WA proudly hosted its first-ever Community Circle – a brand-new initiative designed to bring together the heart of our sport: our Coaches, Technical Officials, and Club committee members.
The goal? To foster connection, promote shared learning, and strengthen our community by listening, learning, and leading together.
The day kicked off with an exploration of the participant’s individual Athlete Assessments DISC profile, a powerful online tool designed to enhance self-awareness and personal leadership. These profiles help sports professionals better understand their behaviour, communication styles, and work preferences. Guided by renowned performance psychologist Dr Sandy Gordon of Performance Perspectives International, participants delved into their individual reports, uncovering valuable insights into their behaviours, motivations, strengths, and growth areas.
Dr Gordon also introduced the SOAR feedback model – focusing on Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, and Results. In the lead-up to the forum, participants were encouraged to reflect on and interview peers about their TWA experiences using appreciative inquiry, which encourages focus on the positive present and possible future. This reflective approach set the tone for rich conversations about how we can collectively support the future Triathlon WA operations and growth.
After a delicious lunch participants connected and engaged in discussions about the TWA Pathway Program and Coach Development Plans for 2025/26. Presented by Janine Kaye, Triathlon WA Athlete and Coach Development Manager. This session highlighted key challenges and future opportunities, which called upon on the collective wisdom and experience in the room to help shape solutions. The flexible layout of the day was designed to accommodate our volunteers’ diverse schedules, allowing guests to come and go as needed. We recognise that many in our community juggle multiple commitments and may not be available for the entire day.
To close out the day, we swapped strategy for fun with a hilarious and high-energy round of Archery Skirmish. Two teams battled it out in three rounds of friendly competition, filled with laughter, banter, and team spirit. It was the perfect way to end a day focused on connection, fun, and community.
This productive forum could not have happened without the support for the Department of Local Government, Sport & Cultural Industries, Coaching and Officiating Grant.
Our first Community Circle event was an overwhelming success, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part. Your openness, time, and honest feedback were invaluable. We deeply appreciate your commitment to triathlon in WA, and we’re excited to build on this momentum. More opportunities for members of our Community Circle to connect, share, learn and have fun together are already in the pipeline for next season and beyond.