Victoria University hosted the Careers for Young Women in Sport event at the Footscray Park campus, attracting 213 girls from years 10, 11 and 12 across the state.
The event aimed to inspire and educate young women about the various career opportunities in the sports industry.
The day began with a warm welcome and acknowledgment of the Country by the university’s deputy vice-chancellor of external relations and partnerships, Wade Noonan, followed by an opening address from Professor Clare Hanlon.
Keynote speaker Bianca Chatfield, a former professional netballer and current media presenter, shared her experiences and insights into the sports industry.
Ms Chatfield, who is also a director of the MCG Trust and The Ready Foundation, inspired the students with her journey from being one of the youngest netballers to play for Australia to becoming a Commonwealth Games Gold and Silver Medallist and World Champion.
The event featured a panel discussion on the barriers and enablers for women in sport, followed by morning tea and networking sessions. A series of masterclasses covered topics such as sports coaching, injury and rehabilitation, data analytics, strength and performance, sports facility management, public relations, sponsorship, and community engagement.
The panelists included businesswoman and advocate for girls in sport Susan Albert AC, Hall & Wilcox head of markets Kate Price, and a Victoria university graduate in sports management/business Elizabeth Gilmore.
Prof. Hanlon emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers and increasing opportunities for women and girls in sports.
“We were thrilled to have over 230 young women from year 11 and 12 and their teachers, from throughout Victoria, attend a jam-packed fun-filled day,” she said.
“As well as our keynote presentation and guest panel, students were treated to a series of interactive Masterclasses led by women graduates in sport now working in the industry.
“Feedback was warmly received by students on how new knowledge was gained on the opportunities that exist to have a career in sport, awareness was raised on roles they did not know existed, and a sense of confidence knowing what Vic Uni has to offer to kick-start their career.”
