When the Minerva Network expanded to Western Australia in 2020, it did so with a clear vision: to create a powerful community that connects high performance sportswomen with experienced business and professional leaders from all industries, providing mentorship, guidance and opportunity in and beyond sport.
At the heart of that vision in WA was Christina Matthews AM. Christina’s leadership as WA Chapter Lead over the past six years has been instrumental in building a vibrant Minerva community in the state and beyond.
Minerva WA’s official launch in February 2020 at the WACA Ground brought together business leaders and sportswomen ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup match between England and South Africa. The event marked the beginning of a new era for Minerva in WA, with a shared commitment in supporting the next generation of elite female athletes through mentorship and professional development.
From the outset, Christina Matthews brought not only her experience as one of Australia’s most respected cricket leaders and administrators, but also a deep understanding of the challenges elite sportswomen face throughout their careers. As a former Australian international cricketer and long-serving CEO of WA Cricket, Christina had spent decades championing women in sports and creating pathways for future generations.
Under her leadership, the Minerva WA community has flourished.
Since beginning with 15 athletes and seven mentors six years ago, Minerva WA has grown to include more than 110 women, with 71 athletes and 43 mentors, representing a wide range of sports and professional backgrounds. This thriving network exemplifies Christina’s commitment to building genuine relationships and creating a supportive environment where athletes can access advice, mentorship and connections that help shape their futures during and beyond competition.
Christina’s approach to leadership has always been grounded in purpose. When the Minerva Network was first introduced to the local WA sporting and business community in late 2019, Christina helped establish the tone that continues to define the chapter today: purposeful, collaborative and focused on creating genuine opportunities for athletes. She brought her tremendous energy and commitment to the Minerva National Council. Christina contributed significantly to Minerva’s achievements over many years, including the milestone of supporting 1000 athletes nationally that was celebrated in 2025.
Her ability to bring together leaders from both the sporting and business worlds has been a defining feature. Over the past six years, Minerva’s longest serving Chapter Lead has strengthened partnerships and built a community where athletes feel supported and mentors feel inspired to contribute their time and experience.
At an event celebrating Christina’s achievements generously hosted by Norton Rose Fulbright in Perth, Minerva Chair Christine McLoughlin AM reinforced the gratitude of the whole Minerva community for Christina’s tremendous contribution.
“Christina leaves an incredible legacy in Western Australia and the entire country, with a strong, connected community of women supporting women.”
Christina will be retiring as WA Chapter lead but will continue to be active on the Minerva Finance and Funding Committee. WA Chapter Co-Lead Suzanne Ardagh AM will continue to lead the chapter and carry forward the strong culture Christina Matthews has established. A new WA Chapter Co-Lead will be announced next week.
On behalf of the entire Minerva Network, our athletes, mentors and partners, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Christina Matthews AM for her outstanding leadership, generosity and commitment.
Her influence in growing Minerva’s impact in Western Australia, and on the many athletes whose journeys she has supported, will endure for many years to come.
