Connect with Community Through a Traineeship
For proud Barkindji woman, Chantelle Mitchell (Channy) football has always been more than a game. It’s been a passion, a way to connect with community and now, through her Game Development Traineeship at SANFL with Woodville West Torrens Football Club, it’s also her career.
I landed my dream job.
It combines my passions of playing footy and working with kids. But it’s also a really meaningful job. It’s so rewarding.
This is Channy’s first full-time role. Having previously worked in retail, she admits she wasn’t sure what to expect stepping into a traineeship. But she quickly found her stride, loving the variety her position brings.
No two days are the same. Some days I’ll be at a school from 9am to 3pm running clinics with kids and promoting programs. The next day might be an office day, replying to emails, sitting in meetings or printing resources. I really enjoy the mix of admin and hands-on work.
Alongside her team leader, Channy oversees two zones, Glenelg and Eagle, which collectively cover around 30 schools. With so many clinics, programs and community events, the role keeps her busy but always inspires her.
One of her favourite moments has been working at AFL and SANFL games.
Getting to be out on the oval for half time is so exciting. Watching the kids have that once-in-a-lifetime experience that never gets old. Seeing their faces, making sure they have fun, it’s the best part of the job.
Another highlight has been travelling to the APY Lands (Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara), something Channy had always dreamed of doing.
I’ve been up twice since starting with SANFL.
It was an amazing experience heading out somewhere so remote.
The kids love their footy up there. Being able to run sessions with both the girls and the boys was really special. I had so much fun and it was incredible to connect with community in that way.
As a proud First Nations woman, those connections hold deep meaning. Channy travelled alongside fellow SANFL staff member Bailey Gaskin and she says the opportunity to be part of that work was invaluable.
Her traineeship has also been supported by AFL SportsReady’s First Nations Mentor, Anzac, who has played a huge role in her journey.
Anzac’s support has been incredible. He’s helped me with my work, study, but also with career and life advice. He even sends me job opportunities and teaches me skills to think about my next steps. Moving from Mildura to Adelaide for footy was a big change and having that kind of wraparound support has made all the difference.
Channy is currently completing a Certificate IV in Sport Development alongside her traineeship and she’s already thinking ahead.
My goal is to secure a full-time role after I finish this traineeship. I want to keep pushing myself and taking every opportunity that comes my way.
Looking back on her journey so far, Channy is grateful.
Everyone around me has made this possible. My footy club, SANFL, AFL SportsReady and my community. I feel really lucky.
From the footy oval to the classroom, Channy is proving that a traineeship can open doors to incredible experiences, lifelong connections and meaningful career pathways.
For her, this is just the beginning.
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