A Practical Way to Learn

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After finishing Year 12, Thomas Queenan wasn’t sure what direction to take. University didn’t feel like the right fit and he was looking for practical work that connected to his love of footy. That’s when he started his AFL SportsReady traineeship back in 2019.

I started as a development officer and then saw a reception role at AFL House, Sydney. I was sitting on the reception desk, but it gave me a chance to meet people across the business and learn how it all ran.

During COVID, Tom moved between departments, gaining experience in community football, umpiring, administration and social media.

It was a bit chaotic jumping from a reception role to hands-on roles across different areas, but it gave me insight into how the organisation operates and what’s needed to keep things running.

Today, Tom is the Facilities and Grants Administration Coordinator for NSW and ACT, overseeing both community and elite venues. One of the standout projects he’s been involved in is the $20 million upgrade of Henson Park in Sydney’s Inner West. Stage 1, including new changerooms, a gym, community spaces and an extension of the historic grandstand, is due to be completed ahead of the NAB AFLW Premiership season.

The work isn’t just about buildings, it’s about giving people better opportunities to play and enjoy footy.

Even on tough days, it’s satisfying knowing the work benefits the community.

Reflecting on his traineeship, Tom says it was invaluable.

Coming straight out of school, it gave me exposure to different parts of the business and taught me how a professional environment operates. Being in reception meant I met everyone and got a broad view of the organisation, which really helped me figure out what I wanted to do.

For anyone considering a traineeship, Tom’s advice is simple:

It’s a practical way to learn on the job and see how the industry works.

You can take what you learn anywhere and the chance to move across departments gives you a real sense of how the business functions.

Tom still umpires football when he can and remains focused on growing participation in the sport.

Sydney’s population is growing and our team at AFL NSW/ACT is committed to making AFL accessible to more people. It’s exciting to be part of that.

From the reception desk to coordinating facilities and grants, Tom shows how a traineeship can give real-world experience early in a career.