A Gap Year in Footy
Mia Miller’s journey into the AFL industry wasn’t part of her original plan. Growing up in a family of passionate footy fans—particularly Carlton and Essendon—Mia proudly identifies as a big Carlton supporter.
However, it wasn’t until she began playing footy herself in 2019 that her love for the game was truly ignited.
Before that, I was always sporty, but I didn’t have a real passion for footy.
Before completing her traineeship in Administration at AFL Queensland in Yeronga. Mia hadn’t initially considered a career in the AFL, but her interest grew when she discovered the traineeship opportunity at AFLQ.
I didn’t know much about working in the AFL, but when I saw the traineeship opening.
I thought, ‘Why not give it a shot?’!
Mia discovered the traineeship through her high school Careers Counselor. At that time, she knew she wanted to take a gap year after finishing school.
I wanted a break after school and the timing just worked out perfectly.
I had my interview for the role while I was away at Schoolies,
which was nerve-wracking, but it was definitely worth it.
Initially, Mia applied for a Game Development traineeship but didn’t land that role. Instead, AFLQ offered her the chance to apply for an Administration position and she embraced the opportunity.
It was a sliding door moment.
Not getting the first role opened the door to this one, which turned out to be the perfect fit. Everything worked out for the best.
Studying for a Certificate III in Business as part of her traineeship, Mia found her experience incredibly fulfilling.
What surprised Mia the most about her role was its dynamic nature.
I thought working in admin meant sitting at a desk from 9 to 5, but that’s not the case at all. Just the other day, I was handing out flyers, inducting people and filming—there’s so much variety in what I do.
The diversity of her work has been a pleasant revelation.
You’re never boxed into one area; you get to work across the entire business, which has been amazing. I even had the chance to help out the Communications Team.
Mia has also had ample opportunities to network within the organisation.
I’ve been surprised by how much I’ve grown in my networking abilities and my capacity to create opportunities for myself.
Attending notable events like the Footy Hall of Fame has been a highlight, further deepening her connection to the industry.
Experiences like that make me incredibly grateful to be part of this world.
The team at AFLQ has played a crucial role in motivating her.
Everyone here is a go-getter, especially in the participation team, who have targets to meet and the employment team, who work hard to make things happen. Their passion for footy and the industry is infectious and I’m surrounded by the best people possible.
Mia’s experience has been great and she encourages others to take a chance on themselves.
What’s the worst that can happen? You get a no.
But if you don’t try, you’ll never know. Be open to everything and don’t sell yourself short—you’d be surprised by how many opportunities are out there.
Her traineeship has reshaped her career perspective.
In Year 12, I was considering all sorts of career paths—acting, social media, communications and even the army.
This traineeship hasn’t changed my passions, but it has definitely shifted my perception of where I want to go.
It’s reinforced what I was already interested in.
Mia’s advice for those starting their traineeship is straightforward: be proactive and take ownership.
From the beginning, I wanted everyone to know I was serious about this traineeship. If I can help out or take on a task, I do it—especially if it helps my team.
After her experience at AFLQ, Mia is considering a long-term career in the sports industry. Currently, she is working at AFLQ in a Women and Girls Coordinator role.
I never thought I’d want to work in sport, but now, after these experiences, I’m hooked.
Mia’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, the best opportunities come from simply saying yes and stepping outside your comfort zone.
All it takes is the courage to give it a go.
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