The AOC says it received over 900 entries to the 2021 Australia Olympic Change-Maker programme ©AOC

The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has revealed that over 900 submissions were made to the organisation’s 2021 Australia Olympic Change-Maker programme.

The programme seeks to recognise students who demonstrate the Olympic spirit.

The students can be recognised for friendship, sportsmanship and pursuit of excellence.

This can be demonstrated on or off the field of play, with students able to have demonstrated leadership and efforts to achieve positive changes in their school or local community.

The AOC said there had been an "overwhelming" response to this year’s initiative, with more than 900 submissions.

Schools were permitted to nominate up to two students from years 10 to 12 who are creating positive change.

The AOC said this year’s submissions underline the work being done by students through sport, with judges now set to review videos.

The AOC hosted a virtual forum last month for participants ©AOC
The AOC hosted a virtual forum last month for participants ©AOC

An announcement will shortly be made on which students will attend a National Change Maker Summit, which is planned to take place next month.

The AOC last month staged a state-wide virtual Olympic Forum, hosted by Olympic medallist, swimmer Brooke Hanson.

Students collaborated with other leaders on areas where sport can bring communities together.

This includes promoting equality and diversity, sustainability, regional engagement and empowering the voice of young Australians.

The programme is now in its third year, with the AOC claiming previous editions have allowed the organisation to promote major projects and small acts of positivity to highlight the impact young people can have on their communities.

The students involved have volunteered at their local sporting clubs, supported elderly members of the community, coached junior athletes and organised school activities to promote health and well-being.