130 plus students inspired by female leaders in the sports industry

More than 130 Year 10 to 12 students explored the possibilities of a career in sport at Victoria University’s (VU) annual Careers for Young Women in Sport Day.

The students from 15 schools across Melbourne’s west, Geelong and Melbourne’s eastern suburbs spoke to female leaders in the industry, including VU alum and AFL Executive General Manager of Football Laura Kane (class of 2013).

Ms Kane spoke candidly about her life, including her burning desire to play football from a young age, her transition from high school into VU’s Law program, plus furthering her studies overseas. 

Ms Kane also reflected fondly on her time spent playing football at Melbourne University’s Women’s Football Club, her career as a solicitor and her transition into Women’s Football and Talent Pathways Manager, Head of Football Operations and then the General Manager Strategy and Football Operations at the North Melbourne Football Club, prior to her joining the AFL in 2021.

Ms Kane said it was a “real thrill” to be back at VU and was equally delighted that her own high school, The University High School, were in attendance. She spoke to the students about ‘what their legacy would be’ and how now is the time to act and stand up and be counted. 

She also discussed how careers in sport extend way beyond the field and can be anything from science through to business, medical, coaching and that with passion, drive and determination “anything is possible”.

An engaging all-female panel followed, chaired by Professor Clare Hanlon, Susan Alberti Women in Sport Chair at VU, and included advocate for driving girls and women in sport, Dr Susan Alberti AC, VU Alumni and General Manager of Suncorp Super Netball League and Events, Casey Price, and Bachelor of Sport Science and Psychology student, Olivia Bomford. 

I’m thrilled to participate in the discussion and get an enormous amount of satisfaction from events such as this with such enthusiastic and engaging young women present,” Dr Alberti said.

Following the panel, students broke off into masterclasses to work with current VU Student Ambassadors looking at various areas in sport, including management, coaching, rehabilitation, technology, sponsorship, event management, participation, diversity and inclusion, all whilst learning about the significant breadth and depth of the courses, programs and opportunities available at VU. 

Current University High School student Sophia Glass, who welcomed Ms Kane and other guests in the event said that she found the day inspirational and informative.

It was a super interesting panel which gave a great insight into the world of sports for women. Laura was engaging and made us feel like we could give anything a go and that anything is possible.”