Seven-time world surfing champion Layne Beachley has been appointed an athlete liaison officer for the Australian team for the 2012 London Olympics, the Australian Olympic Committee said on Friday. Beachley, who ranks as the most successful female surfer of all time, joins other appointees  basketballer Andrew Gaze, rugby footballer John Eales.

And cricketer Steve Waugh  accompanying the Australian Olympic team to London. The AOC said the liaison officers' task was to help the Australian athletes maintain focus and maximise performance with the assistance of the head coaches and team managers.

"I am looking forward to being able to share my wealth of experience with the Olympians who have the dream of succeeding in their sport," Beachley said in a statement. "One of my strengths throughout my career was my mental aptitude and I want to share some of my knowledge on how to approach pressure situations and thrive in them."