Former trainee makes his comeback in sports

AFL SportsReady alumni, Stephen Camp has reconnected with his former employer, taking on a new role at the AFL as ACT North Development Coordinator. So how did he get his foot in the door? A traineeship of course!

‘I knew it was the perfect opportunity to get into this industry. Coming straight out of high school and working in a highly regarded organisation like the AFL, you really can’t go wrong,’ Stephen said.

Starting his traineeship fresh out of high school at the age of 18 as a Development Officer at AFL NSW/ACT, Stephen was quick to get involved and became a much-loved member of the team.

‘I loved every minute of my traineeship and everything the role entailed. I was responsible for helping to promote and grow AFL within the region and it was awesome.’

During his traineeship Stephen studied two VET qualifications, a Certificate IV in Sport and Recreation and a Certificate III in Business Administration.

‘It was a huge bonus that the traineeship also offered qualifications to study. It gave me a basic understanding of the industry and provided me with the knowledge that helped to prepare me not only for my role at the time but also for my future.’

‘After I graduated, I then worked for the Australian Sports Foundation and then the Government. They were two amazing roles and I applied many of the things I learned throughout my traineeship experience.’

Stephen remained keen to reconnect with the AFL so when the Development Coordinator position was advertised, he seized the opportunity.

‘It was an incredible feeling to be working back in the industry I love.’

In his current role as ACT North Development Coordinator, Stephen works closely with schools and local footy clubs, building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders and working with GWS Giants Football Club to increase brand awareness in the ACT.

Stephen believes his traineeship was instrumental in helping him get started and feels that having experience along with strong networks is absolutely vital.

‘It’s all about the connections you make, I can’t stress it enough. It’s the only way you are going to get into an industry like the AFL or any other big sporting organisations.

 Doing a traineeship can give you those networks, it will throw you right in the deep end and allow you to get your name out there! It’s how I did it, it’s how anyone can do it.’

To find out more about the diverse range of rewarding careers available through vocational education and training, and watch the real skills for real careers video, visit www.myskills.gov.au

#realskillsforrealcareers

DATE: 15th of May 2018

AUTHOR: Marissa Pagliarello

IMAGE: Stephen Camp