In a continuation of efforts to provide career and educational advice and opportunities for all players involved with the club, the Sharks held a ‘CareerWise’ information evening this week with a variety of industry representatives and special guests in attendance.
Presented for an intimate gathering of parents and players from the Sharks NYC and Junior Academy system, the night focused on alerting them to the possibility of combining work and study with top-level rugby league.
Organised by Sharks Career Coach Rebecca Potter, the night brought together representatives from the University of Wollongong and the University of Western Sydney, from the Australian College of Physical Education, TAFE NSW and the Housing Industry Association.
Also on hand was John Hutchinson from the NRL’s Trade Up Program, which is a support program for Rugby League Apprentices. NRL/Sharks apprentice mentors Corey Hughes, Adam Peek and Colin Best, as well as senior NRL squad members John Morris, Jeff Robson and Daniel Holdsworth also attended on the night.
All three of the current squad members are actively pursuing further education while playing and training with the Sharks NRL side.
Potter afterwards expressed her thanks to those who attended and was confident the night was a beneficial experience for all concerned.
“I want to say a huge thank you and also give recognition to the guys who gave up their time to join us at our Career and Education evening,” she began.
“John and his crew of Corey, Colin and Adam spent time mingling with the group and chatting to the parents of young players looking at doing a trade after high school. They were not only professional in every way but were engaging advocates for completing a trade whilst playing footy.
“Adrian Whitney from HIA was also in attendance and the parents were impressed with the great connection that we have with such a professional organisation.” Potter added.
Potter went on to praise Morris, Robson and Holdsworth for being excellent ambassadors for the club, with the trio mingling and chatting to those present. Morris also shared his story of playing 300 NRL games while also finding time to complete a PE Teaching Degree, a Masters Degree in Elite Coaching as well as other tertiary qualifications.
“It was great to have the guys there to display their commitment and strong belief in the educational support programs we have here at the Club. All three networked and spoke to young players and parents about the importance of education whilst playing footy,” Potter said.
Jane Lowder from the NRL also supported the evening, as did Sharks Board Members Dane Sorensen, Darren McConnell and Dino Mezzatesta.
“Each player and parent assured me they all got a great deal of information from the night and a few said they now feel a sense of relief and less confusion about the career and education pathways,” Potter added.
With Potter as Career Coach at the helm, the Sharks follow CareerWise, a program with a vision to make all players coming through the club better men for having been part of the great game of rugby league.
