How Nick Got a Job at The Bombers
Hard work pays off is the motto of Nicholas (Nick) Loschiavo who completed AFL SportsReady’s Sport Leadership program back in 2017. Three years on, Nick is now working at his favourite football club, the Essendon Bombers and he owes it to AFL SportsReady.
Nick has always been a sports-nut and a go-getter so when he saw an opportunity to get involved in a program that gives you a qualification and a chance to work in sports, he said it was a no brainer.
“The sports leadership program is a two-year gig. In the first year I studied a Certificate IV in Business and Sport Development and completed my work placement with the National Sports Museum. In the second year of the program I studied a Diploma of Business and a Diploma of Sport Development and worked at Essendon Football Club, which was a dream come true.
Both organisations were fantastic in my placement year. I was welcomed warmly and consistently given many exciting tasks to complete whilst forming friendships I still hold to this day.”
Being a passionate supporter, Nick was determined to keep excelling in his placement with Essendon so he could secure an ongoing role.
“ At the club, I was given many great opportunities in my role as Community Engagement Officer including running community programs, working at club functions and assisting the property team at a preseason training session. I gave my 110% in every area of my job”
At the end of the placement Nick’s dream came true and he was offered ongoing employment with the club. It wasn’t long after when he was promoted to Sales Assistant.
“I learnt that if you always say yes when asked to do something and work hard then opportunities will consistently present themselves. Your employer will recognise your willingness to learn and achieve and this can be rewarded so it’s important to keep a positive mindset and bust down the door to your dreams no matter what.”
Nick was recently offered another promotion to be the Team Manager of the Essendon FC Wheelchair team.
In five years’ time he sees himself fully immersed in the sporting industry whether it be at Essendon, another club or a an entirely different sporting body altogether.
His final advice to a young person thinking about getting involved with the AFL SportsReady program.
“Just do it. Like me, you might have grown up always wanting to work for the club or sport that you love.
Life is too short. Find a way in. There are always roles being created and if you’re willing to be flexible, say yes and work hard then you will find your way in like I did. AFL SportsReady is the perfect place to get your start. You will be one foot in the door of the industry plus you will have many networking opportunities. You won’t be sorry!”
If you are keen to get your start in sports, just like Nick, check out our AFL Executive Courses here.
DATE: 12th of March 2020
AUTHOR: Marissa Pagliarello
IMAGE: Nick Loschiavo
