Gemma and Maddi get career starts with Holmesglen Saints sports course

Gemma Sammut and Maddison Southam

Gemma Sammut and Maddison Southam were motivated to study Holmesglen’s dual sport/event management course for its hands-on experience and direct connection to employment opportunities.

“The course ticked all the boxes,” says Maddison, who was inspired to enrol after attending an Open Day session.

Delivered with the support of the St Kilda Football Club, the dual diploma lets students step into a real-world professional sporting organisation while they study.

The course prepares them for future roles as a high-performance coach, sport development manager, sport event manager, and other associated jobs.

Both Gemma and Maddison have used their qualifications to start promising sports careers (see below) and say the course provided the foundations for their success.

“You get so much experience and an opportunity to learn on-the-job in industry,” says Gemma.

What jobs can I get in the sports industry

The sports industry is diverse and spans both local and international employment opportunities.

These job areas can include sport development, sport events, coaching, and even sports media and sport business. The SIS50321 Diploma of Sport with Diploma of Event Management SIT50322 prepares students to work in various coaching, events and administrative roles.

Gemma Sammut

Property Assistant – St Kilda Football Club

Gemma used the sport/event management course’s practical learning opportunities to secure employment with St Kilda Football Club.

A Saints fan, Gemma is immersed in her dream role and pivotal to the team’s day-to-day work.

Her main roles and responsibilities include preparing the equipment on training days and packing the players’ uniforms on game days.

During the AFL season, Gemma helped the team during interstate trips to Sydney and Perth.

“Being there on game day, particularly after a win, and seeing the team sing the song, makes everything worth it. All your hard work has helped.”

In the future, she would love to continue to work with the Saints and move into the operational and logistical side of sport.

Maddison Southam

Game Development Officer – AFL Victoria

Through the course’s connections, Maddison moved into a Game Development Officer role after completing her course.

In her current job, Maddison delivers Auskick and football programs to schools and also assists with weekend Auskick programs.

“Being able to get kids to feel included and comfortable is rewarding.”

Maddison credits study experiences, such as a trip to the award-winning Holmesglen at Eildon, for giving her the skills to run sporting events and coaching sessions.

“The sport industry world opened up for me. There were so many different avenues and even things I didn’t know existed before doing the course.

“I want to empower women and grow grassroot sport, and also support the mental health side of sport.”

How can I get started in sport and event management?

The dual SIS50321 Diploma of Sport with Diploma of Event Management SIT50322 course is a full-time, one-year program delivered with the St Kilda Football Club, which gives students a pathway into both industries.

“The course taught me so much about both fields. You get to learn so much about two industries, sport and event management – it helps add to your skills,” says Gemma.

The course has intakes in February and July and is delivered at our Moorabbin campus, also including practical learning opportunities at St Kilda Football Club’s facilities.

Graduates may also continue further study with a Bachelor of Sport Business or Bachelor of Sports Media.

Find out more about our Holmesglen-Saints sports program and how to apply.

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