Illawarra Academy of Sport athletes with TAFE NSW Shellharbour staff. Photo: Joel Martelli.
The Illawarra Academy of Sport has teamed up with TAFE NSW to deliver a pilot training and education program to its young stars.
The Statement of Attainment in High Performance Athletic Development (strength and conditioning) will provide athletes with education and practical experience in strength and conditioning, fitness testing, nutrition principles and program development.
The academy prides itself on supporting athletes not only in their sporting pursuits, but also in developing education, skills and career pathways beyond competition.
Illawarra Academy of Sport CEO Salv Carmusciano said it was an exciting time 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,” he said.
“We are confident the athletes engaged in this opportunity will leave with lifelong skills that will serve them well.”
Basketballer Lily Wildner said the first week of the course was highly rewarding.
“I have learned so much already in the first week,” she 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 Lily’s enthusiasm for the course.
“I have learned how to train people in the gym, conduct fitness tests and complete the required documentation,” he said.
“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.”
The course is a combination of face-to-face practical workshops at TAFE NSW Shellharbour, alongside online pre-reading and formal assessments.
Sport and Recreation head teacher Kristen Cantrill said the course would 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,” she 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.”
