Deakin is the #1 sport science school in the world for three years running. We're committed to shaping the future of the sport industry – including raising the profile of women in sport.
Our teaching staff, students and alumni are passionate about driving participation and celebrating the achievements of women in sport. Whether it's your dream to become a coach, mentor, trainer, teacher, athlete, manager, sports researcher or health promoter, it's our mission to get you there.
Associate Professor Natalie Saunders, named as one of Exercise and Sports Science Australia’s 2022 Female Leaders in Exercise and Sport Science, wants to empower the next generation of women sport professionals. ‘We need to be a voice and role model for these young girls and women.’
Dr Samantha Hoffman, a lecturer in applied exercise and sport science, emphasises the importance of increasing the representation of women in the sporting industry.
‘A large percentage of girls drop out of sport entirely during their teenage years. There are many different reasons for this, but having greater access to role models may help to break down barriers and change both men’s and women’s perceptions of sport participation for women and girls.’
Embodying this kind of role model is Olivia Knowles, a PhD student in exercise science and High Performance Manager for Hawthorn Football Club’s AFLW team. Olivia is determined to pave the way for women following in her footsteps.
‘I think it’s important that the status quo continues to be challenged and that people, regardless of gender, feel empowered to work in this industry,’ she says.
I’d like to be known for building genuine, authentic relationships with my athletes and staff, and leave a legacy that women can be exceptional leaders in sport.
Olivia Knowles
AFLW High Performance Manager, Hawthorn Football Club
Research assistant, casual academic and PhD student Monica Kelly feels fortunate to be involved in a formative time in women’s sport.
‘Women’s sport is expanding at such a rapid rate. To ensure the longevity of this growth, investment in women’s sport from grassroots to elite levels is needed to develop the next generation.’
She says Deakin is the ‘ideal place’ to begin a career in sport.
Olivia agrees, ‘Deakin has elite learning facilities, but more importantly has exceptional people who encourage curiosity and innovative thinking – I think this has led to its success.’
Dr Danielle Trowell, associate lecturer at Deakin and biomechanics practitioner at the Victorian Institute of Sport, agrees that the dedicated staff are what makes Deakin stand out, helping to secure the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences’ #1 world ranking for the third year running.
‘The people who work at Deakin are incredibly passionate, they're incredibly hardworking and they're there to support the students. And I think that's what's helped set us apart.’
Danielle advice is to follow your passion. ‘If you’re working in a field you’re passionate about, you’ll work hard and be rewarded for that hard work.’
Ready to find your own path in sport? Browse our sport courses today.