Academy Principal
Niamh Champion T.C.R.G

Niamh Champion is a passionate advocate for Australian Irish dancers, dedicated to nurturing talent and showcasing the incredible impact Australian dancers have on the global stage.

Born in Sydney to Irish parents, Niamh grew up surrounded by the rich traditions of Irish music and dance. Inspired by her older siblings, she began dancing at four years old under the tuition of SDCRG Jan Berne (Walton Studio). Over the years, she became a decorated competitor, holding multiple Australian Championship and NSW State Championship titles in both Solo and Ceili competitions. For a decade, Niamh consistently ranked among the top two Irish dancers in Australia for her age.

Her professional career began at 15 while still at school, performing at prestigious venues like the Sydney Opera House, State Theatre, and with Sydney Dance Company. And by 18, she was the youngest Australian female dancer recruited for Riverdance, touring internationally with the Liffey and later, Moy Company. Prior to joining Riverdance, Niamh was also an original member of Gaelforce Dance.

Beyond the stage, Niamh’s experience in dance extended her into acting, media and journalism. She holds a double bachelor’s degree in creative arts (Music & Theatre) and Journalism, with experience in TV advertisements, film, television presenting, theatre, print, and broadcast journalism. Her career has included roles as a TV presenter and journalist, with notable positions at WIN News (Wollongong) and the Illawarra Mercury. For eight years, she was also the Australian/NZ columnist for Irish Dancing Magazine, penning Dancing Down Under with Niamh Champion covering Australian and New Zealand Irish Dancing news.

Now living in Perth, Niamh is the driving force behind Champion Academy, where she shares her lifelong passion for Irish dancing and performance. She believes that Irish dance is more than just a sport or an art form—it’s an experience that enriches every child, parent, and adult who embraces it. While competition success is always rewarding, Niamh knows that the greatest victories come from the friendships, discipline, confidence, and resilience that Irish dance instils.

As a mother of two, Niamh also has a special interest in the connection between music, movement, and young neurodiverse minds. She is dedicated to creating a fun, inclusive and enriching environment where every individual dancer is seen and can thrive.