Located just three kilometres apart, exists a partnership aligned in a pursuit of excellence in sport and education. The Sydney Swans and University of New South Wales are combining elite sports and a world-class education to focus on educational excellence, fostering student communities and support for elite athletes.
Students are engaged in valuable industry placement as part of coursework, connected with sporting experiences with 500 students attending the annual Sydney Swans Pride Match, and equipping athletes with skills for their post football careers.
The university supports 13 Sydney Swans AFL and AFLW players in their studies, including 2023 Bob Skilton Medal winner, Errol Gulden, Co-Captains Dane Rampe and Callum Mills, as well as the AFLW 2022 number 1 draft pick, Montana Ham. Players taking part in the UNSW Elite Athlete Program have access to the support and resources they need to succeed academically, while allowing them to stay focused on their sporting ambitions.
Sydney Swans AFLW star Montana Ham is studying Applied Exercise Science / Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology at UNSW, aiming for a role in physiotherapy at a sporting club in Australia, or abroad.
The 19-year-old is encouraging any athletes considering study to enrol and foster a future beyond life on the field.
“I think it's extremely important to undertake some kind of study,” said Ham.
“You don’t know how long your career is going to span, you could retire for a number of reasons, be it injury or you’ve played out your career. It’s invaluable to have options outside of life on the field, because footy is not forever.”
“It also allows for you to have a focus outside of the club. When you’re at University you’re just focused on the study, which is a nice break from constantly thinking about footy.”
Originally from Melbourne, Ham admits the social aspect to studying has helped her build connections outside of footy, while the Elite Athlete Program has allowed her to juggle the demands of footy and study.
“I’ve made so many friends at UNSW which is really important for someone like me who is an interstate player to make those connections,” said Ham.
“UNSW has been incredible with their Elite Athlete Program. It allows me to have flexibility with my timetables. If I have missed assignments or exams, they reschedule them for you. It’s also really helpful to be able to contact your course convener, if you are absent for sport or you’re travelling and need to push back some study, they are really useful.”
Sydney Swans CEO, and former AFL player, Tom Harley has experienced the importance securing an academic future while juggling the demands of AFL.
"Sporting careers are inherently uncertain, and it's crucial that we support our athletes in planning for their future beyond the game," said Harley.
"Education is a powerful tool in achieving that goal, and UNSW has been instrumental in providing our players with a solid academic foundation."
Vice-Chancellor & President Professor Attila Brungs, highlighted the importance of providing talented athletes with an environment that allows them to excel in both domains.
"These student athletes are not only exceptional on the field, but they are also dedicated students who bring a unique perspective to our university community," said Professor Brungs.
"It's our responsibility to provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed academically while nurturing their sporting ambitions.”
“We're proud of the success of our Elite Athlete Program. It's a testament to our commitment to providing athletes with a world-class education and the necessary tools to succeed in their sporting endeavours."
Professor Brungs emphasized that these efforts are not just about supporting the players but also about fostering a sense of community and pride among UNSW students.
"We want our students to feel a strong connection to the Sydney Swans and take pride in the achievements of their fellow students who are representing the Swans on the field.”
