ECU and Eagles launch groundbreaking Academy of Sport Business

First published by Edith Cowan University

This innovative collaboration offers students a unique and invaluable opportunity to immerse themselves in the Eagles' high-performance environment while completing the ECU Diploma in Sport Business at club headquarters, Mineral Resources Park in Lathlain.

As part of this exciting new program, students will engage in up to 100 hours of hands-on learning directly with the West Coast Eagles Football Club and across all areas of the club.

Over two semesters, students will complete their contact hours on-site, gaining real-world experience and insights into the highly competitive sports industry. Additionally, there is the potential for two graduates each year to secure full-time roles with the Eagles.

This partnership reflects ECU's commitment to industry-connected learning, offering students rare educational opportunities that blend academic study with practical, on-the-job training. The West Coast Eagles Academy of Sport Business equips students with the skills, knowledge and experience needed to succeed in the dynamic sports industry while highlighting how an elite AFL club operates.

Expressions of interest for entry into ECU's Diploma in Sport Business, offered through the West Coast Eagles Academy of Sport Business, are now open. An Information Session to provide prospective students with more information about this exciting new course will be held ahead of the West Coast Eagles' first AFLW match on Friday, 30 August at Mineral Resources Park. The inaugural cohort of students will commence study in February 2025.

West Coast Eagles CEO Don Pyke shared his enthusiasm for the new collaboration, stating, "We are excited to expand our long-standing partnership with ECU through this innovative Diploma in Sport Business. This program not only creates a new pathway into the sports industry but also allows us to engage with and mentor the sports leaders of the future through work-integrated learning."

ECU's School of Business and Law Executive Dean, Professor Maryam Omari, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of industry-connected education.

"We are thrilled that our students will gain valuable insights into the tasks that are directly relevant to the sports industry," Professor Omari said.

By partnering with the West Coast Eagles Academy of Sport Business, our students will build the skills and confidence necessary to pursue rewarding careers in sport, learning from some of the best in Australian football.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in ECU's mission to provide students with cutting-edge educational experiences that prepare them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

For more information, please email westcoasteagles@westcoasteagles.com.au or visit the website: www.eaglesasb.com.au.