From next year, Hunter and Central Coast Academies of Sport athletes who are intending to or are currently studying at the University of Newcastle will have access to more support to balance study and sport after the two academies became partners of the University’s new Sport Scholar Program.
The Sport Scholar Program will provide academic support, flexible study options, access to world class facilities at NUsport and networking opportunities to students in the program, with the core objective of ensuring that athletes can balance their sporting and study commitments.
Through a dedicated Sports Concierge service, students will also receive personalised assistance to navigate university and guidance on areas like course selection, scheduling, and access to academic support resources, tailored to the individual needs of each athlete.
Brett O’Farrell, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Hunter and Central Coast Academies of Sport said he was pleased to be able to offer the program to student athletes from the two academies.
“We are thrilled to partner with the University of Newcastle for the Sport Scholar Program. This initiative represents an impressive opportunity for the talented athletes in our region to pursue their sporting and academic dreams simultaneously,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“It reinforced our commitment to nurturing the next generation of champions, both on and off the field.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Global, Professor Kent Anderson said the Sport Scholar Program will broaden access to higher education for student athletes in our region.
“Our priority is to support students from a range of competitive sporting groups like the Hunter and Central Coast Academies of Sport to achieve their best. We want to create an environment where athletes excel both on and off the field, court, or track,” Professor Anderson said.
“We are proud to support these students as they pursue their sporting passions while earning a degree at the University of Newcastle and this program will allow talented local athletes to stay and study in our region.”
Under the Sport Scholar Program starting next year, any athlete who is a member of the Hunter Academy of Sport or the Central Coast Academy of Sport and studying at the University of Newcastle can apply.
Key Program Highlights:
- ATAR Point Boost: Athletes participating in the Sport Scholar Program can earn up to 12 ATAR points, opening doors to a wider range of undergraduate programs at the University of Newcastle.
- Academic Support: A dedicated Sports Concierge will be available to provide ongoing academic support, ensuring that athletes can excel in their studies while pursuing their sporting goals.
- Flexible Study Options: The University of Newcastle offers flexible study options that accommodate the training and competition schedules of student athletes.
- Access to World-Class Facilities: Athletes will have access to state-of-the-art sports facilities and resources, enhancing their training and performance.
- Networking Opportunities: The program fosters a community of like-minded individuals, creating opportunities for networking and mentorship among student-athletes.
For more information, please contact Hagan Butler on hagan.butler@theoforum.org.au or 02 4985 4177
