Shaun Barnett, the valued President of Perth Scorpions Volleyball Club, stands as a finalist for the Executive Leadership Award at the upcoming 2024 Australian Pride in Sport Awards. His nomination underscores his unwavering dedication to fostering LGBTQIA+ inclusion within the realm of Australian sports. Upon learning about his selection Shaun said, “It’s an absolute honour to have been nominated for and selected as a finalist for this award. I set out to lead the Scorpions to excellence and continue to provide inclusive opportunities to everyone. We continue to grow and develop as a club, offering more pathways and opportunities in Volleyball.”
Shaun’s journey within the volleyball community is a testament to his tireless advocacy and commitment to creating an environment of acceptance and support. As the leader of the LGBTQIA+ Volleyball Club within Western Australia’s volleyball landscape, Shaun has been instrumental in cultivating a culture of inclusivity within the Perth Scorpions Volleyball Club (PSVC) and setting a standard for others to follow.
Beyond his role as President, Shaun’s impact extends far beyond PSCV. Serving as a Level 2 State Referee, his dedication to excellence and fairness on the court is unmatched. His involvement in various committees, including the VWA Referee Committee, VWA Places to Play Working Group, and Volleyball Australia’s Gender Diversity & Inclusion Working Group, highlights his commitment to shaping policies and initiatives that promote diversity and equality in sports. Shaun’s multifaceted contributions have significantly enriched the landscape of the volleyball community, earning him recognition as the recipient of SportWest’s Community Sport Volunteer Award. Shaun humbly acknowledges the award, recognizing the importance of the work and the impact it has, “These kinds of awards don’t drive what I or the team do, however, they are an excellent milestone and reminder that what we do is important and making an impact. I could not have done anything without the amazing team at Perth Scorpions Volleyball Club and Volleyball WA.”
As we anticipate the upcoming Australian Pride in Sport Awards ceremony in Melbourne on 23 April, Shaun Barnett’s journey symbolises more than just individual recognition—it’s a celebration of inclusivity, diversity, and the transformative power of sports. Shaun’s unwavering dedication serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the profound impact we can make when we strive for equality and acceptance in every facet of life, both on and off the field. His journey exemplifies the importance of championing inclusivity in Australian sports, paving the way for a more equitable and accepting sporting landscape for future generations.