Aspiring sports coaches will have the opportunity to work alongside some of Western Australia’s sporting greats in a new program launched today (August 5, 2009) by Training Minister Peter Collier and Sport and Recreation Minister Terry Waldron.
Central TAFE’s Athlete Development Centre is the first of its kind in WA, where a TAFE college has teamed up with premier sporting organisations to offer a training program at the highest level.
“Central TAFE, West Coast Eagles, WA Football Commission, Football West and Rugby WA will combine academic qualifications with specialised training from players and coaches,” Mr Collier said.
“Students are enrolled in Central TAFE’s Certificate IV in Sport Development, which provides them with the practical skills and knowledge to develop coordinate, coach and officiate in a wide range of sports.”
Mr Waldron said they would develop skills in sports science, sport psychology, nutrition and planning, while also conducting training programs.
“Students will be exposed to the great range of careers in the sporting world - from coaching and sports management to physiotherapy, nutrition, sports science, umpiring and sports first aid,” he said.
“In addition to the academic program, students have a chance to hone their skills and receive coaching from professionals at the highest level.”
Mr Collier also announced a new Athlete Development Centre Student of the Year Award for the student who shows the greatest commitment in combining academic achievement with sporting excellence.
“This will be presented at the end of Term 3 to the student who has shown commitment and achievement with sporting excellence,” the Minister said.
Mr Collier said the Government was committed to ensuring Western Australians had access to a world-class training system that was innovative and flexible.
He said the Government had introduced a raft of initiatives to boost training throughout the State
“Training WA: Planning for the future 2009-2018, outlines a series of targeted initiatives to ensure the skills needs of industry are met as well as providing greater access to training,” the Minister said.
“A $47.4million added investment over the next three years in training was also announced in the May Budget.”