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Verona, Italy – Australian Olympic medallists Danielle Scott and Cooper Woods have been selected to carry the Australian flag at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Verona on Monday morning (AEDT). The honour comes after a record-breaking Games for the Australian team, with both athletes playing a pivotal role in the nation’s success. This selection recognizes not only their athletic achievements but also their embodiment of the spirit of the Australian team.
Scott and Woods’ selection was announced by Australian Chef de Mission Alisa Camplin, who praised their performances and character. “We have had so many phenomenal performances here at the Games and Cooper and Dani were no exception,” Camplin said. “They were fully themselves, they can show Australia that they can be authentic to who they are and be champions.” The pair’s success has contributed to what is being hailed as Australia’s most successful Winter Olympics to date, marking a significant moment for winter sports in the country.
The closing ceremony is expected to be a unifying event, bringing together the entire Australian team from various locations across the northern Italian Alps at the Verona Olympic Arena. Camplin emphasized the importance of this gathering, stating, “It will be the first big chance since the start of the Games that we’ve been able to galvanise as a team.” The ceremony will serve as a celebration of the athletes’ accomplishments and a symbol of national pride.
Scott’s Silver and a Fourth Olympic Games
Danielle Scott secured a silver medal in the women’s aerials competition, a remarkable achievement in her fourth Olympic appearance. Her performance showcased years of dedication and skill, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the sport. Scott expressed her joy and gratitude, saying, “To have the most successful team ever for Australia at the Winter Olympics is huge. To be able to contribute to that too, my dreams are coming true and these Games are even more special now being named the flag bearer.”
Woods’ Golden Moment and a First for Australia
Cooper Woods delivered a stunning performance to win gold in the men’s moguls, securing Australia’s first medal of the Games. His victory was particularly noteworthy as he overcame challenges to achieve the top spot on the podium. Woods shared his excitement, stating, “To have the most successful team ever for Australia at the Winter Olympics is huge. To be able to contribute to that too, my dreams are coming true and these Games are even more special now being named the flag bearer.”
A Team United and a Legacy Forged
The success of Scott and Woods is emblematic of the broader achievements of the Australian team at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The team’s collective performance has set a novel benchmark for Australian winter sports, inspiring future generations of athletes. Scott highlighted the strength of the team, saying, “This Australian team is so special. The athletes that will march out behind us, have got everything going for them right now… We’re fierce competitors, and we’ve shown the world that.”
As the Games draw to a close, the selection of Scott and Woods as flag bearers represents a fitting tribute to their accomplishments and the overall success of the Australian team. Their leadership during the closing ceremony will symbolize the unity, determination, and spirit of Australian athletes on the world stage. The team’s performance in Verona will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, encouraging continued investment and participation in winter sports across Australia.
The closing ceremony promises to be a memorable occasion, celebrating the achievements of all athletes and marking the end of a successful chapter in Australian Winter Olympic history. The focus now shifts to building on this momentum and preparing for future competitions.
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