Athletics Australia – News -Raise the Bar

As part of its Athletics for the Outback program, Athletics Australia will team with the University of Melbourne to host its inaugural Raise the Bar Academy on the university’s campus from 19 – 22 January 2015.

The Academy will aim to support Indigenous Australian secondary school students who are interested in pursuing tertiary education and a career in the sports industry.

The Academy is open to Indigenous Australian secondary school students who are entering Year 10, 11 or 12 in 2015. 

Athletics Australia’s Indigenous Participation Coordinator Bridgid Junot said the Academy was aimed at helping Indigenous Australians to turn their love of sport into a career as well as encouraging them to both complete secondary school and pursue tertiary studies.

“This is a new initiative on behalf of Athletics Australia’s Athletics for the Outback program and we hope it will become an annual event that Indigenous students can look forward to every year, ” said Junot. “It will be a great way for kids to get on track to start the school year right, be inspired by peers just like themselves, meet new friends and learn from some of Australia’s best athletes who are excelling in all areas of their lives, not just in the sports arena.

“The Academy participants will have the chance to explore their leadership potential and discover how to pursue a university education at Australia’s leading academic and research Institution,” Junot said.

The free program consists of a four-day summer residence camp at the University of Melbourne. Participants will develop new skills in athletics coaching, sports media training and community sports events management as well as having the opportunity to connect directly with sports industry professionals and some of Australia’s best athletes.

Up to 30 participants will be selected by Athletics Australia to attend the Raise the Bar Academy.  Applications are now open and more information is available by clicking here.