Goorjian unveiled as Wollongong's Australia Day ambassador

Illawarra Hawks coach Brian Goorjian, the man who lead the Australian Boomers to their first-ever Olympic medal in Tokyo last year, has been named as Wollongong’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2022.

Goorjian is a well-known professional basketball coach who is continuing to carve a notable career in the Australian and New Zealand National Basketball League (NBL).

With six championships under his belt, he has proven to be one of the most successful coaches in the league’s history.

Currently in his second NBL season with local team Illawarra Hawks, Goorjian has also made history on the international stage, leading the Australian men’s basketball team, the Boomers, to their first-ever Olympic medal in Tokyo last year.

Wollongong City lord mayor councillor Gordon Bradbery hails Goorjian’s long-standing contribution to Australian sport and welcomes him as Wollongong's Australia Day ambassador.

“I am pleased to welcome Brian as this year’s Australia Day Ambassador. Born in the United States, Brian became an Australian citizen having taken the pledge back in 1998," Bradbery said.

“Since landing on our shores in 1985 as a player with Melbourne Tigers, Brian has fast become a much-loved sporting figure, leading our homegrown talents to many amazing achievements – including that coveted Olympic medal.

"It goes without saying, we’ve loved having Brian in Wollongong for the last two years making our coastal city his home with the Illawarra Hawks.”

Goorjian will be involved in the Australia Day Awards.

“I am truly honoured to be involved in the presentation of this year’s Australia Day Awards," Goorjian said.

"These awards celebrate the generosity and greatness of individuals from this city and to play a part in recognising some true community heroes and to a part of that is really a great privilege.

“Before I came to Australia, I had the experience of playing against an Australian team that were touring America playing against college teams.

"I don’t think they won a single game but the comradery and the amount of fun they were having really stood out to me.

"When the opportunity came up to play in this great country back in 1977, I embraced it and I have never looked back.

"The culture, the landscape and the vibe of this place is truly special.

"Australia prides itself on the fact that, if you are hard-working and you adopt the Aussie lifestyle, you will be welcomed with open arms, no matter what your background. 

"I could think of nothing more humbling than being given the chance to celebrate just a few of the hardworking and dedicated Australian citizens of this great country."

Goorjian and his Hawks return to the court on Saturday, when they host the Wildcats at the WIN Entertainment Centre, with tickets available via Ticketmaster.