In 2017, Troy Jones chose to enrol in the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership to undertake a dual diploma focussing on sports management and leadership. Troy recently reflected in his decision and the unique experiential and practical learning environment.

I chose to enrol in the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership (RISL) after completing my Bachelor of Psychological Studies. I had decided I did not want to continue with my study to become a sport psychologist and ultimately it boiled down to me making a decision between the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership program and a Masters of Sport Management. After gathering further information, I decided to undertake this course as it provided the opportunity for work placement in an elite sporting environment. Other courses did not.

This course has gone beyond my expectations and delivered everything it promised. During the year, I’ve had experience working across various departments at the football club. I have helped the membership team on game days, I’ve worked with the Korin Gamadji Institute program participants at the Dreamtime at the G match, run warm-down session for the Lagunta’s team and helped organise a day of the Bachar Houli Cup among other things.

I have learnt a lot about myself, the type of person I am, and what I can do to improve myself. I have also found the course extremely interesting from a coaching perspective. I had never coached before but I quickly learned many techniques for effective coaching from elite coaches and sporting superstars. I have also enjoyed the course as I have become better physically through the gym work we undertake as part of the program.

Throughout the course, I have met and learnt from the likes of Madi Robinson, Jordan Berry, Lydia Lassila, Brendon Gale and Lisa Alexander. I have also toured many different sporting facilities, including those of other elite sports teams. These were all unique opportunities.

By the end of the course I will have gained a Diploma in Leadership and Management and a Diploma in Sports Development. I believe I can use these to further myself in the sporting industry and work my way towards a full-time role in a sporting organisation. I have already been offered a position as a Membership Sales Officer at the Richmond Football Club on a casual basis. Importantly, I will have also made many lifelong friends that I will continue to spend time with after we have finished.

I believe this course is fantastic and if you have any doubt, come along to an Open Day and it won’t disappoint you.

To find out more about the Richmond Institute of Sports Leadership and to register you interest go to http://www.richmondinstitute.com.au/