A new collaboration between the Illawarra Academy of Sport and TAFE NSW is set to support career pathways for emerging athletes.
The Illawarra Academy of Sport has strengthened its commitment to the holistic development of local talented athletes through a new pilot project with TAFE NSW, with athletes undertaking the Statement of Attainment in High Performance Athletic Development (Strength and Conditioning).
The nationally recognised course has officially commenced at TAFE NSW Shellharbour, providing Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes with valuable education and practical experience in strength and conditioning, fitness testing, nutrition principles and program development. The skills will support athletes in both their sporting performance and future career pathways.
Illawarra Academy of Sport basketball athlete Lily Wildner said the first week of the course has been highly rewarding.
“I have learned so much already in the first week,” Wildner said.
“Over the last few days we have been doing exercise testing and it has been a great experience, learning how to demonstrate and explain exercises thoroughly.
“I am hoping to learn about writing programs, so later I can help younger athletes get to where they want to be. The course will help me with my career as well.”
Illawarra Academy of Sport mountain bike alumni athlete Alex Jovanovski echoed the positive early experiences.
“I have really enjoyed the week and it is exciting to begin the course,” Jovanovski said.
“I have learned how to train people in the gym, conduct fitness tests and complete the required documentation.
“The course will be really good for my future if I want to become a personal trainer and it will open up a lot of pathways for me.”
Delivery of the course is a combination of face-to-face practical workshops at TAFE NSW Shellharbour, alongside online pre-reading and formal assessments.
Illawarra Academy of Sport CEO Salv Carmusciano said it is an exciting times for the athletes.
“The Illawarra Academy of Sport is delighted to have officially kicked off this new training and education program with TAFE NSW in support of talented young athletes within our region,” Carmusciano said.
“We are confident the athletes engaged in this opportunity will leave with life-long skills that will serve them well. We extend our thanks to the NSW State Government via the Office of Sport for their support of this initiative.”
Kristen Cantrill, TAFE NSW Shellharbour Head Teacher of Sport and Recreation, said the course will provide athletes with skills for their future careers.
“TAFE NSW is proud to be working with the Illawarra Academy of Sport, helping young athletes build essential skills for their future careers within the fitness industry,” Cantrill said.
“Through this program, students will finish with units of competency, which may give them credit towards several qualifications in the fitness, sport, health and community services industries, giving athletes more choice and broader pathways as they plan their futures.”
This collaboration reinforces the Illawarra Academy of Sport’s commitment to supporting athletes not only in their sporting pursuits, but also in developing education, skills and career pathways beyond competition.
The Illawarra Academy of Sport would like to thank TAFE NSW for their support through this pilot project and we look forward to seeing our athletes grow in confidence as they develop and master new skills.
