Five University of Newcastle Central Coast campus exercise and sports science students will obtain vital experience working with elite athletes thanks to an industry placement program with the Central Coast Mariners Football Club.
The second and third year Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science students are taking part in industry placements throughout the Hyundai A-League 2010-11 season.
“The relationship between the University and the Central Coast Mariners is important and mutually beneficial,” said Robert Lockie, Exercise and Sports Science lecturer at the University of Newcastle Central Coast campus.
“Our students are offered industry placements that provide them with real-world experience in professional sport. They complete cadetships and help provide sport science support to the Mariners throughout their season.”
Head of Sports Science at the Central Coast Mariners, Andrew Clark, said science had an important role to play in helping an elite athlete achieve their best.
“The students are familiar with the latest techniques used in elite sport to improve performance, which help our players better understand how their bodies work, and their weaknesses and strengths.”
The University’s degree programs are designed with a career-ready focus. Many of the programs offer students the opportunity to gain hand-on experience as parts of their studies.
Three of the five exercise and sports science students working with the Mariners are women, who are keen to get their start in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Second year student Erin Markwick, moved from Dubbo to study the Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science.
“Completing the work placement as part of my degree not only gives me first-hand experience in the workplaces it also has confirmed that this is the career I want.”
Photo opportunity: Mariners’ players and coaching staff, and University of Newcastle exercise and sports science students will be available for photograph and interview at Club Tuggerah, 1 Bryant Drive, Tuggerah, on Wednesday 3 November at noon. Alternatively, contact Leonie Brann, Media and Public Relations Officer, on 4921 6856 or 0448 898 813.
