After 25 years since her historic Olympic victory in Sydney, Australian taekwondo champion Lauren Burns embarks on a new journey within the sport that propelled her to fame. Rather than coaching athletes in techniques like blocking or delivering powerful kicks, Burns is taking on a role focused on their wellbeing as the newly appointed Wellbeing and Engagement Manager at CombatAUS. Her responsibilities will extend beyond taekwondo to include judo and wrestling.
Burns made history at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, becoming the first Australian to win a gold medal in taekwondo, joining fellow gold medalists Cathy Freeman and Susie O’Neill as three women champions from Australia. In the years since her triumph, Burns has inspired many through her corporate speaking engagements, with a primary focus on “elevating potential.” She also holds a PhD in athlete lifestyle and mindset and has balanced her career with raising a family.
In her new position based in Melbourne, Burns aims to support athletes as they prepare for upcoming events, particularly the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympics. “It’s about helping athletes navigate their lives both in and out of sport while supporting them in developing a comprehensive plan that encompasses their goals,” Burns explained in an interview. Her approach involves assisting athletes in understanding their personal values and aspirations beyond their sporting careers.
Burns fondly recalls her own experiences as an athlete, expressing gratitude for the guidance she received during her training, particularly from mentors at the Victorian Institute of Sport. “Having that balance outside of sport was crucial,” she reflected, noting that it helped shape her identity and career after retirement.
At the Sydney Olympics, Burns captured gold by defeating Cuban competitor Urbia Melendez Rodriguez in the under-49-kilogram category. Following this pivotal moment, she pursued and completed a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy), which she feels greatly contributed to her knowledge base.
With her wealth of experience, both in athletics and health, Burns is poised to make a significant impact in her new role. CombatAUS chief executive Alex Vallentine expressed enthusiasm regarding her appointment, highlighting how Burns’ unique combination of athletic achievement and professional qualifications will guide aspiring athletes in Australian combat sports towards their careers.
This new chapter signifies Burns’ commitment to fostering the next generation of champions, not only through physical prowess but also by equipping them with the necessary tools for personal and career development.