A Record-Breaking Career
Jacqui Cooper’s career stands as one of the most remarkable in Australian sport. Spotted at just 16 years old on a trampoline in Melbourne, she was recruited into the demanding world of aerial skiing. With a decade-long vision to become a world champion, Jacqui achieved that dream and went on to dominate the sport for more than twenty years. Competing in 139 World Cup events, nine World Championships, and representing Australia in five Winter Olympic Games, she became the first Australian woman, across both Summer and Winter Games, to achieve this milestone.
Her record is extraordinary: five world titles, 39 World Cup medals, 24 World Cup wins, and three major World Championship medals. These achievements cemented her status as the greatest aerial skier of all time, admired not just for her victories but for her pioneering spirit and relentless determination.
Resilience Against All Odds
Jacqui’s journey was defined as much by adversity as by success. Aerial skiing is one of the most punishing sports, and her career came with a series of severe injuries, multiple reconstructions to her knee, elbow, shoulder, and hip. In 2001, she broke her back attempting to win her third world title and won it anyway. Just a year later, at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, she shattered her knee and broke her leg two days before competing, ending years of preparation.
In 2010, after a grueling year of hip and knee rehabilitation, Jacqui made an astonishing comeback at the Vancouver Olympics. Having spent months in a wheelchair, she defied medical expectations to finish fifth, the best Olympic result of her career. Her perseverance became a symbol of resilience, earning admiration from fellow athletes and the nation alike.
Leadership Beyond the Podium
Beyond her athletic achievements, Jacqui has been a dedicated advocate for her sport and fellow athletes. Over two decades, she served on several key committees, including the Australian Olympic Committee Board, the Ski and Snowboard Australia Board, and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Athlete’s Committee. Her leadership and voice have shaped policies, improved athlete welfare, and inspired a new generation of sports professionals.
Her commitment to integrity, excellence, and fair play has been recognised with numerous honours, including the Victorian Young Australian of the Year for Sport, Victorian Sports Woman of the Year, and multiple Ski and Snowboard Athlete of the Year awards. In 2008, she received the prestigious Governor’s Award, and in 2025, she was presented with the Snow Australia Medal, a lifetime achievement honour acknowledging her impact, longevity, and legacy in the sport.
From Athlete to Inspirational Speaker
Since retiring, Jacqui has built an impressive career as a keynote speaker, MC, and workshop facilitator, addressing audiences across Australia and abroad. Her story, woven with triumph, defeat, and rebirth, captures the essence of human perseverance. Through authentic and energising storytelling, she connects deeply with her audience, reminding them that “success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”
Jacqui’s speaking engagements span schools, corporate events, and global conferences. She shares powerful lessons on resilience, leadership, teamwork, and mental strength, offering practical tools to overcome setbacks and thrive under pressure. Her honesty and humour make her sessions both moving and memorable.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Jacqui’s passion for education and wellbeing has seen her dedicate much of her post-sport career to inspiring young people. She speaks to students about the value of healthy living, goal setting, positive mindset, and the importance of being role models in their own communities. Her ability to connect with audiences of all ages reflects her authenticity and her belief in the power of perseverance and self-belief.
Book Jacqui Cooper for your event
Jacqui Cooper’s extraordinary life story, marked by world titles, shattered bones, and unbreakable spirit, continues to inspire audiences worldwide. Whether she’s addressing corporate leaders, educators, or students, Jacqui brings energy, vulnerability, and wisdom to every stage. Her journey reminds us that greatness is not defined by victory alone, but by the courage to rise after every fall.