Richmond has joined forces with Swinburne University of Technology to establish the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership.
This unique program is aimed at developing the next generation of leaders within the sports industry and combines a Diploma of Sport Development with a Diploma of Leadership and Management.
The Institute is located in the heart of Richmond, on Swan Street, and students will have access to a fully-equipped gymnasium with state-of-the-art equipment, a running track, altitude room and aquatic recovery area.
Richmond will embed its high performance and administration expertise throughout the course – along with that of other elite sporting organisations and people – to provide a unique insight and learning opportunity for students.
The Club is also in the unique position of being able to provide students demonstrating excellence, with potential employment opportunities not only at the Richmond Football Club, but also at Aligned Leisure.
Aligned Leisure is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Richmond Football Club that recently successfully tendered to run eight major aquatic and recreation facilities in the Shire of Cardinia and currently employs almost 200 staff members.
“The establishment of the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership is a bold and innovative step for our football club and aligns with one of the key strategic priorities of the Board which is to diversify our revenue streams,” Richmond president Peggy O’Neal said.
“We are thrilled to be in a position to deliver this opportunity in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology, one of the country’s most respected educational institutions.”
Swinburne Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Professor Jennelle Kyd, says the partnership with Richmond Football Club would enable more athletes to gain tertiary qualifications.
“We’re excited to be working with a professional sporting club to deliver high-quality training programs,” Professor Kyd said.
“Swinburne is a world-ranked university leading the way in innovation, industry engagement and social inclusion.
“This new endeavour with the Richmond Football Club will create opportunities for individuals looking to pursue careers in the sport industry.”
In addition to potential employment outcomes with Aligned Leisure and the Richmond Football Club, students from the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership will be guaranteed entry into any Swinburne University undergraduate business course, after successful completion of the double diploma.
The Institute is holding a series of open days for prospective students to experience what the program is about.
The open days will be held at the Richmond Football Club, Punt Road Oval on Friday, September 23 and Thursday, September 29. There are two sessions available each day at 10:30am and 2pm. To register interest or find out more about the program, click here.
