Traineeships driving Tamara’s future in sports

Former trainee Tamara Joy fast tracked her career in the sporting industry with AFL SportsReady and is now working as the Human Resources Manager at Confederation of Australian Motor Sport.

‘Participating in the traineeship allowed me to confirm my interest and passion for sport, health and fitness, which I have continued to pursue,’ said Tamara.
‘It gave me a great foundation and starting point for my career,’ she added.

Tamara began her AFL SportsReady journey at the Melbourne Fitness Club working as a Sports Administration trainee. After her traineeship, she gained full-time employment with the club which ignited the beginning of her career in the sporting industry.

‘I wasn’t ready to commit to full-time study after just completing year 12. I wanted to work and gain real experience and that’s what the traineeship offered.’

‘I was working 3 days a week at the Melbourne Fitness Club and the other two days were participating in compulsory face to face/classroom education, for 12 months,’ she explained.

‘I did everything from working on reception, welcoming members to the club, handling membership enquiries, sitting in on fitness assessments and working with fitness instructors to write up programs. I got a real taste of the sporting industry and loved it.’

To build on the skills and knowledge she gained through her traineeship, Tamara also completed a Masters of Human Resources.

As her career progressed Tamara worked in lead roles at various other organisations including the Melbourne Racing Club where she was General Manager of Human Resources before landing the gig at Confederation of Australian Motor Sport.

‘In my view traineeships are a great opportunity to grain work experience and a formal education, allowing you to be ‘work ready’ quicker,’ Tamara said.

‘It allows you to test your areas of interest and work in an industry you are passionate about. It will help you to develop your skills and expand your networks and if you are willing to work hard and prove yourself, you’ll go very very far!’

DATE: 1st February 2017 

AUTHOR: Marissa Pagliarello

IMAGE: Tamara Joy