Golf WA has moved to bolster services to Western Australia’s future elite golfers by announcing an exclusive education partnership with Curtin University. This marks the first time in Golf WA’s history that tertiary education advice and opportunities have been officially available to current, future and aspiring golf stars.
The innovative partnership arrangement will also incorporate student placements for real life work experience for Curtin University students amongst the network of Golf WA members, progress a long term scientific research agenda and support regionally based elite athletes making the transition from regional areas to tertiary education.
Whilst there had been internal discussion in the past at GolfWA of the possible benefits of an education category partnership, it was not until this year that the concept gathered momentum. Golf WA Chief Executive Officer, Gary Thomas was delighted to secure the agreement stating that the range of benefits and opportunities for the golfing fraternity will have long term benefits for golf, golfers and golf clubs in WA.
“Having access to new technologies, cutting edge research, experienced academics and passionate young students will provide GolfWA with benefits that were not previously achievable within our available resources, Mr Thomas said”
“We are proud to partner with Curtin and this collaboration is based on our joint desire to provide the highest quality possible educational experience with a clear pathway for our golfers to become qualified in a professional vocation – as well as great golfers”
The Head of Sport and Recreation at Curtin University, Mr David Russell commented that he was looking forward to seeing some of WA’s aspiring young golfers represent Curtin at University sporting events nationally and internationally. “Our Elite Athlete Support Program has been outstandingly successful in assisting students’ progress a dual career, combining elite level sport and attaining University qualifications to support their long term aspirations.”
Integral to the partnership will be a pilot program to place students in the areas of marketing, social media management, business, accounting, physiotherapy and sport science with Golf WA member clubs. “In conjunction with GolfWA, we will discuss student opportunities with a small number of pilot clubs with specific requirements before rolling out a broader “Work Integrated Learning’ program to other clubs in the near future” stated Mr Russell.
“Curtin has had exceptional success with student placements in current sport related partnerships including Hockey Australia and the Fremantle Football club. We would like to continue the provision of high level placements in professional environments for our students”
Representatives of Curtin University will soon begin speaking with our elite and developing athletes around how the partnership can best work for them.
For more information on the agreement please contact Gary Thomas on garyt@golfwa.org.au or 9367 2490.
