Over the course of 2026, the Sydney Swans and the International Sport College Australia (ISCA) have hosted the inaugural cohort of the newly formed Diploma of Sports Management (High Performance) at the Sellers & Colless Centre, Sydney Swans HQ.
The collaboration between the Swans and ISCA was set out to provide a unique opportunity for students to learn in a high-performance environment and gain insights that will set them apart in their future endeavours in the sports industry.
The initial cohort that began with just nine students has doubled over the course of the year as the diploma looks to grow even further heading into 2027.
“We’ve genuinely loved having the diploma students studying with us and getting involved with the club this year,” Commercial Manager Robbie Thomas said.
“We’re incredibly proud of how they’ve embraced the program and the opportunities that have come with it. It’s been great getting to know them and seeing their confidence grow throughout the year.
“We’re really excited to keep building the diploma in 2027 and welcoming the next group of students to the club.”
The inaugural running of the diploma has seen students learn topics such as sport management, economics, social-cultural, sport psychology and media and marketing whilst gaining weekly insight and hands-on experience from Sydney Swans staff members.
“Our staff have enjoyed getting involved as guest lecturers, sharing their experiences and giving students an insight into the different roles and career pathways that exist within a sporting organisation,” Thomas said.
With work experience intertwined into the course, students have been exposed to the many components that go into the operations and running of both AFL and AFLW home match days. Students have assisted in a variety of roles that have allowed them to gain a taste for the industry and learn what areas interest them moving forward.
“It's been a really good opportunity here. I've really enjoyed the classes,” current ISCA student Jackson Kelly said.
Students are now entering their third and final trimester of the year-long course, with some having earned opportunities within the club after excelling both inside and outside the classroom.
“Placement-wise, it's been a really good opportunity,” Kelly said
“I've got that strong passion behind me, so any small role, like doing membership redemptions, I enjoyed it because I am helping promote the club I've supported for such a long time.”
Over the coming weeks, we will be shining a spotlight on three students who have undertaken the course and are continuing with the club after the completion of their diploma. With the aim of sharing their unique journeys that led to the diploma and how they intend to use their newfound skills in their positions around the club.
CLICK HERE for more information about the course and enrolment for next year’s cohort or email diploma@sydneyswans.com.au
