People remember good people

Decent people doing good things stick in people's minds more than brash "children in adult's bodies" who expect success to fall into their laps, according to a survey on Australia's most popular athletes.

The results speak more about the appreciation for simple, old fashioned good manners rather than an affinity with stars of yesteryear, although the fact that the top 6 athletes on the list have retired from their sports gives weight to the latter argument. Top of the list is Pat Rafter, Glenn McGrath comes in second, Cathy Freeman is third, then Ricky Ponting, Ian Thorpe and Steve Waugh round out the top 6.

5 of the top 6 athletes, (according to a survey of 7000 people, listed in the Sweeney Sports and Entertainment report) are as well known for being decent human beings as much as for their passion in representing Australia on the world stage, and their captivating ability in their chosen sport. Pat Rafter used to call out "sorry mate" if he tossed the ball in the air but didn't follow through with his serve. Glenn McGrath is a bloke from Narromine who has taken over 500 test wickets, bought a farm for his family and supported his wife with courage, strength and dignity as she battled breast cancer. Cathy Freeman won a gold medal for Australia at the Sydney Olympics, but now wants to "go bush" and spend time with her family:

"I just wanted to show I am proud of who I am and where I come from. I would love to one day go out to the bush and spend time with the elders of my culture, and get back to my roots" Freeman said after the Sydney Olympics.

With 5 gold medals, Ian Thorpe is Australia's most successful Olympian, but in many ways he defies the stereotype of Australian sportspeople. He is quiet, mild-mannered, thoughtful, and articulate. Former Australian cricket captain Steve Waugh supports 310 Indian children with leprosy in Udayan in India, and is associated with the Calcutta Girl's Foundation.

The results of this survey highlight the difference between being a larrikin and being a peanut - people remember larrikin, but nobody remembers a peanut.

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Australia's most popular athletes
(according to Sweeney Sports and Entertainment report)

1. Pat Rafter

2. Glenn McGrath

3. Cathy Freeman

4. Ricky Ponting

5. Ian Thorpe

6. Steve Waugh

7. Casey Stoner

8. Leisel Jones

9. Michael Clarke

10. Cadel Evans

AUTHORS NOTE:

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