Graham Winter
Outstanding Alumni Contribution to Sport Award recipient 2024
Bachelor of Arts 1977, Diploma of Applied Psychology 1979
Graham Winter is a performance psychologist and bestselling author whose career has centred on helping people unlock their potential, whether they’re Olympic athletes or senior executives. Serving as Chief Psychologist to three Australian Olympic teams and the Australian Test Cricket Team, and as a trusted advisor to top leadership teams in industry, government, and universities, Graham has guided people to build the mindset, skills, and resilience needed to perform at their best.
His background in professional cricket—including membership in Sheffield Shield and One Day Cup-winning teams—inspired his approach to high-performance psychology. His Think One Team book, a bestseller now in third edition, is one of many publications that have shaped high-performing teams around the world. In 2020, he was awarded a Fellowship with the Australian Psychological Society, recognising his contributions to the field.
“Nobody makes it to the top – no one succeeds – by themselves.”
“Cricket was definitely my sport of choice as a kid,” says Graham. “I loved it. I wanted to play first-class cricket.” Alongside his sporting ambitions, he pursued his passion for psychology at the University of Adelaide, earning a Diploma of Applied Psychology (1979) after completing his Bachelor of Arts (1977). During this time, he also advanced as a cricketer, captaining Adelaide University Cricket Club and learning leadership and team skills that laid the foundation for his future work with both elite athletes and senior executives around the world.
Graham credits his wife, Carol, and sons, Mark and Ben, as his greatest inspirations, alongside the clients he feels privileged to support. “There’s nothing more stimulating than working with people striving to unlock their potential… I love helping them solve complex challenges—not only for their own growth but for the impact it has on everyone around them.”
Graham encourages aspiring high-performers to build strong connections and support networks. “Nobody makes it to the top—no one succeeds—by themselves.” His personal success, he says, is defined by a simple measure: “To be relevant and trusted”.
Receiving the Distinguished Alumni Contribution to Sport award, Graham reflects, is “a moment of pride, a chance to look back on a career, and a recognition of what it’s been like to be part of such a great institution.”