Elite Experience, Student Focus - Inside the Work of Our High Performance Program Coordinator
Published Tue 13 May 2025
At Adelaide University Sport and Fitness (AUSF), we’re proud to have a team shaped by lived experience - and few know the world of elite sport like Christopher McHugh, our High Performance Program Coordinator.
A decorated international beach volleyball athlete, his career has spanned two Commonwealth Games, four Olympic qualification campaigns, and countless lessons both on and off the sand. With two decades of experience at the top level, he brings a deep understanding of what it takes to balance performance, study, and life and now supports the next generation of student-athletes to do the same.
His journey began in primary school, when he swapped clarinet lessons for SpikeZone volleyball with friends. That early decision sparked a lifelong love for the game - and unknowingly set him on the path to representing Australia on the world stage.
Growing up near the beach, the natural appeal of beach volleyball quickly took hold. The sport’s physical demands, strategic play, and absence of in-game coaching matched his strengths and personality. After early success at the state level, McHugh entered the SASI talent pathway, which led to national junior selection and his first trip overseas – competing at the U19 World Championships as a 17-year-old. Watching Sydney 2000 as a child had planted a dream. That tournament solidified it.
Qualifying for the Olympic Games proved to be a lesson in resilience across four Olympic cycles. After narrowly missing selection for London 2012 and being sidelined by injury ahead of Rio 2016, McHugh finally achieved his Olympic dream at the Tokyo 2021 Games. Unfortunately, Paris 2024 didn’t work out, but the journey across those cycles has been one of determination, growth, and perspective.
“Missing out in 2012 was tough,” he reflects. “But I don’t think I would’ve learned as much or pushed myself as hard if we had won that match.”
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One of the crowning moments of his playing career came at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, where he stood atop the podium with a gold medal. He went on to claim another gold at the Birmingham 2022 Games - a particularly special moment, as his wife was able to attend and share in the experience after COVID restrictions kept loved ones away from Tokyo.
In this phase of his professional journey, McHugh draws on his lived experience to guide and support student-athletes at the University of Adelaide as they navigate the demands of elite sport alongside their studies.
His role at AUSF is grounded in a commitment to giving back, using the insights gained from two decades at the top level to help shape and mentor the next generation of high-performance athletes.
“I want to ease the pressure on athletes at this level,” he says. “Especially when they’re juggling major life decisions like leaving school, starting university, and continuing to compete.”
He believes universities play a vital role in nurturing athletic talent, offering structure, flexibility, and support at a time when many athletes are forced to make sacrifices. While top-tier competitions like the Olympics often capture the spotlight, most elite athletes are not highly paid, and balancing education and future career planning is essential.
“Elite athletes bring pride and energy to a campus. Investing in them has a ripple effect – inspiring future generations and strengthening the university’s identity on the national stage.”
In his role, McHugh is committed to building a safe and supportive environment that recognises both wins and setbacks. Having experienced the isolating lows and the euphoric highs of elite competition, he understands the importance of a strong network, especially when things aren’t going to plan.
“Success is only part of the story,” he says. “Sometimes the most meaningful support is just knowing someone’s in your corner when it’s hard.”
He also sees immense value in the peer networks created through programs like the Elite Athlete Program, where students can connect with others navigating similar challenges. Scholarship support, tailored academic flexibility, and access to travel grants are all part of what makes UoA a supportive place for high-performance sport.
As athletes gear up for Brisbane 2032, McHugh hopes to see University of Adelaide athletes representing Australia at a home Games – a vision he’s excited to work toward.
“I’ll never stand on the court representing my country again, but now I get to stand behind others as they chase that same dream. That’s a privilege I take seriously.”
McHugh's impact is already being felt, with a renewed focus on student well-being, long-term development, and an inclusive culture across the university’s high-performance sporting programs.
Adelaide University Sport and Fitness is proud to have Christopher McHugh on the team, as he helps to bring the drive, insight, and leadership to elevate our high-performance program and inspire the next generation of student-athletes.
Adelaide University Sport & Fitness is looking to host a SpeakGood Workshop with Jarrod Walsh -and all AU Sport Clubs are invited.
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This engaging session is designed to help athletes and leaders build confidence in communication and presentation, both on and off the field.
📅 Tentative Date: July 28, 6pm
🎤 Facilitator: Jarrod Walsh With enough interest, we’ll look at hosting and subsidising the event, so register your interest early and don’t miss out on this valuable development opportunity.
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For further information about this opportunity, please contact Chris McHugh
