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University honour for sports star Cavallo

Tim DorninAAP
Flinders University has awarded Adelaide United football star Josh Cavallo an honorary doctorate.
Camera IconFlinders University has awarded Adelaide United football star Josh Cavallo an honorary doctorate. Credit: AAP

Adelaide United footballer Josh Cavallo has been recognised for his contributions as a role model in elite men's sport and as a champion for equality in the broader community, with an honorary doctorate from Flinders University.

The 21-year-old last year made global headlines when he came out as the only openly gay male player in a top-flight men's professional soccer league anywhere in the world.

University Chancellor Stephen Gerlach said Cavallo became an inspiration to millions of young people around the world by choosing to speak out and showed the community that being your true self should always be a priority.

'I speak on behalf of Flinders University when I say that Josh Cavallo has our everlasting respect and gratitude for being a reminder to us all that visibility and representation matters," Mr Gerlach said.

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"Josh's courage and strength have paved the way for future generations."

Also presented with an honorary doctorate was Darwin Aboriginal elder Richard Fejo for his work in cross-cultural education and improving outcomes for Aboriginal people.

The Larrakia elder had also played a key role in the university's reconciliation action plan, advocating on behalf of students in the Northern Territory.

"Uncle Richie plays a pivotal role in educating Northern Territory staff and students about culture and the importance of understanding and committing to holistic solutions for health in his role as an elder on campus," Mr Gerlach said.

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