The event kicked of the VIS Performance Lifestyle team’s activities to celebrate National Careers Week (15-21 May) and is part of the team’s commitment to supporting VIS athletes in planning for their future.
The event provided athletes and their parents the opportunity to meet with elite athlete coordinators and representatives from various education institutions to discuss applications, enrolments, elite athlete support and studying in 2023 and beyond.
The athletes had a unique opportunity to gather information, ask questions, and get guidance on how they can balance their athletic career with further education.
Most of the athletes that attended were accompanied by their parents. A mother of one of the VIS squash athletes thought it was a great experience for her son as it opened his eyes to what is available as an elite athlete.
“We were able to come away with some 'next steps', which included a plan to attend some Open Days," she said.
"The format of the night was very relaxed and not intimidating at all for a young student, they could have something to eat and ask the many experts about their options."
On the night there were seven elite athlete coordinators, representing Melbourne University, ACU, Deakin, VU, Monash University, La Trobe University and Holmesglen. These institutions are all part of the AIS’ Elite Athlete Education Network (EAEN).
Jamie Gamble, Elite Athlete and Performer Program Coordinator at ACU praised the VIS Performance Lifestyle team for leading the way in athlete career education.
“The team is proactive in the way they integrate into the broader support team and network to provide opportunities for the VIS athletes,” he said.
“It was a great event, there was a lot of engaged athletes and parents who had really informed questions regarding their future study options. The VIS team is innovative in their engagement of industry and providing opportunities for their athletes."
The EAEN provides a network of AIS endorsed providers in the areas of higher education where athletes can learn and equip themselves with qualifications, knowledge, and skills for future careers beyond their sport.
