Trainee Responsibilities and Frisbee Ambitions
From her early days at Mount Lilydale Mercy College, Trainee Olivia Gardeniers was always really involved in the outdoor education and sports department. Reflecting on her six years at the school;
I was always down here doing stuff, wanting to do as much as I could. Seeing the other trainees throughout the years was inspiring. I thought, ‘Oh, I could do something like that.’ So, I applied for it.
Olivia credits Dani Webb (Director of Sport and mentor), “Webby”, for promoting the role and providing invaluable support.
Webby does a great job promoting it all, so it’s good knowing that there are people who believe you’d be good for this.
Talking to past trainees like Michaela and Cheyenne gave me insider info.
By year 10, I knew I wanted to pursue this.
Olivia’s passion for teaching and her involvement in health, PE and outdoor education have been a perfect match. She described her daily tasks as a blend of organising excursions and camps, preparing resources and equipment for PE classes and promoting physical activity through weekly sports competitions.
We’re starting a new organised weekly sport competition for the senior and junior levels, where each week they can play different sports for house points!
Being the Outdoor education Trainee has its challenges, especially when transitioning from student to Staff. Olivia admitted she thought it would be difficult and awkward, but the support of new staff members and respectful students made it easier.
The kids have been great. They listen and respect me. The older ones understand I am now a staff member, and the younger ones just see me as Staff.
Olivia’s journey is not just limited to studying for her Certificate IV in Sport Development and working at MLMC. She’s also an ultimate frisbee enthusiast, gearing up for international competition.
I fly out to Scotland in July for a two-week holiday with my family, then head to Birmingham for two weeks with the team.
We have one week to acclimatise and then the tournament the following week.
I pretty much come home and go on a school snow camp the next morning. It’s going to be a whirlwind!
When asked about the frisbee training camps, Olivia explained;
Training is pretty intense. We have seven-hour sessions to make the most of it. Our last camp involved skill sessions, working on different throws and playing against local clubs. It’s like a mix of footy, touch and netball, which is why so many people love it.
The frisbee community is incredibly accepting and supportive.
The competition will be fierce, with teams from England, Germany, America, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, and more. Despite the challenge, Olivia remains optimistic.
The sport is still emerging in Australia and we’ve had to self-fund our campaign. But the love for the game keeps us going.
As Olivia juggles her Trainee responsibilities and frisbee ambitions,
she remains grounded and focused on her goals.
[Photo with fellow Trainee Lexie Shaw]
Olivia’s journey so far is a great example of the power of passion and perseverance. Whether she’s organising a PE class or perfecting her frisbee throw.
She’s always aiming high and catching every opportunity that comes her way.
With Olivia’s determination, it’s clear she’s destined to make every throw count and avoid any flops.
In Olivia’s world, every day is a new spin on challenges and triumphs. She always ensures she’s throwing herself into every task.
So, let’s toss her some support and watch her soar to new heights!
Mount Lilydale Mercy College is a long-time partner with AFL SportsReady. Together we’ve been shaping the futures of Trainees and making a lasting impact for over 20 years.
With over 29 years of experience providing quality job opportunities and launching the careers of thousands of young Australians. AFL SportsReady offers diverse and thrilling opportunities that could take your career to the next level.
If you’re starting in your career or looking to take it in a new direction. AFL SportsReady has something to offer, with a commitment to quality training and support. You can be sure that you’ll gain the tools you need to succeed.
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