The man who helped make the Matildas a global phenomenon has been awarded Bond University’s most prestigious accolade, the annual Alumni Medal.
The former CEO of Football Australia James Johnson is now off to revolutionise Canada’s football industry as the CEO of Canadian Soccer Business.
The appointment was announced in Canada last night as Mr Johnson accepted his award from Vice Chancellor and President Professor Tim Brailsford here on the Gold Coast.
Mr Johnson said he was excited about the opportunities awaiting him in Canada, as the nation prepares to host the men’s World Cup in 2026.
“They have a fantastic men’s team and the Canadian women’s team won gold at the Paris Olympics,” he said.
“This is a big opportunity for Canadian soccer. We’ve seen what these big tournaments can do for local football with the success of the women’s World Cup here in 2023 and the Matildas.
“These tournaments are so much more than a month of great competition, they’re an opportunity to leverage and promote growth (in the sport).”
During his time as CEO, Mr Johnson led Football Australia’s bid for the 2023 event, and experienced one of his proudest career moments when the Matildas’ semifinal match against England became the most-watched television program in Australia – ever.
He’ll be hoping for similar success in Canada, playing a key role on the commercial side, leveraging the opportunities that come with hosting a World Cup as he did here with the Matildas.
Mr Johnson attended the ceremony with his wife Jess, also a Bond Alumna, and said it was great to be back on campus.
“I had a pretty intense two years here (undertaking a Juris Doctor) and it brings back a lot of good memories, and to receive this award is so exciting,” he said.
Red Cross leader Yvette Zegenhagen was named the Community Award winner for her incredible achievements in international humanitarian law.
“It feels like I have come full circle,” she said.
“It was here at Bond where I started thinking deeply about the world around me and the impact I could have, then I went off out into the world and did things.
“To be back here to be recognised for that work is really lovely.”
The Young Alumni Award was won by Nikhil Dwivedi for his advocacy for student and junior doctors and his work with Indigenous communities on dermatology in the world’s skin cancer capital.
He said it was ‘humbling’ and ‘an honour’ to be selected.
“It’s such a great feeling coming back to Bond,” he said.
“There’s been so much change, but it still brings back so many memories.”
The Alumni Awards are the highlight of Bond’s annual Homecoming event, when alumni from across the globe make their way back to the Gold Coast campus for a series of celebrations and events.
The annual tradition unites generations of Bondies in a celebration of legacy, community and lifelong connection.