Matthew Dawson, a three‑time Olympian who once wore the green and gold of the Kookaburras, has swapped the roar of the stadium for the corridors of Catholic schools across New South Wales. After hanging up his stick, Dawson has embarked on a teaching role within the Diocese of Broken Bay, where he now guides the next generation of hockey talent.
A lasting impact
His involvement extends beyond the classroom. Through the Catholic Schools NSW Sport program, Dawson shares not only technical expertise but also the values of teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship that defined his own career. The program, which partners with schools and community clubs, offers students a structured pathway to develop both athletic skill and personal character.
In May, Dawson took charge of the Polding Boys Hockey team for the NSW Primary School Sports Association Championships held in Bathurst. Under his direction, the squad displayed the discipline and cohesion he champions, finishing with a commendable performance that highlighted the potential of young players.
A subsequent trip to Newcastle saw Dawson at the helm of the NSW All Schools Hockey Championships, where he conducted a specialist skills session and served as team manager for the NSWCCC Opens Boys and Opens Girls sides. The Opens Girls team, guided by his strategic insights, captured the championship title, a testament to the effectiveness of his coaching approach.
Dawson was not alone in this endeavour. He worked alongside former Kookaburra Mark Paterson, who took charge of the NSWCCC Opens Boys team. Paterson’s complementary experience enriched the coaching staff, creating a collaborative environment that emphasized player development over mere competition.
The month concluded at the NSWCCC Hockey Championships in Taree, where Dawson led a series of coaching clinics, offered mentorship to fellow coaches, and even stepped in as an umpire. His hands‑on involvement underscored a commitment to nurturing talent at every level of the sport.
Reflecting on his journey, Dawson says there is profound satisfaction in giving back to the pathway that shaped him. He believes that facing different regions and schools fosters friendships, builds teamwork and cultivates resilience — qualities he hopes will stay with his students long after they leave the field.