Crows launch First Nations scholarship in sports management

Jarred Cross Published December 5, 2025 at 4.20pm (AWST)

sport

The Crows cover the costs for one Indigenous student. Image: Richard Mainwright (AAP).

The Adelaide Crows are offering a scholarship for an Indigenous student to study sports management - and possibly land themselves a career - at the club.

Following a pilot program this year, the club launched the Kuwarna First Nations Scholarship for one student to complete a one-year diploma.

The full $22,000 cost is covered with the scholarship, with the course balancing practical and theory learning, without a ANTAR required to nab the spot.

Delivered by the Crows new Institute of Sports Business, 120 placement hours with the club, including match days, is blended with academic elements from the University of Adelaide.

Crows First Nations programs manager and Reconciliation SA co-chair Jeremy Johncock told National Indigenous Times the scholarship "reflects our commitment to reconciliation and our vision to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by creating genuine pathways into the sport industry".

"Through the power of sport, we aim to strengthen opportunities, celebrate culture, and support First Nations talent both on and off the field," he said.

"It offers an exciting opportunity for First Nations peoples who aspire to build a career in sport management - providing the foundations, and industry experience needed to grow and lead across elite sporting environments and the broader sporting community.

"We encourage all eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to apply. Our focus is on fostering equitable access, supporting meaningful participation, and creating long-term pathways within our Club and the wider sports industry."

Johncock added the scholarship reflects the club's commitment to reconciliation and "vision to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by creating genuine pathways into the sport industry".

*Crows First Nations programs manager Jeremy Johncock. (Image: supplied)*

Applicants for the Kuwarna scholarship are first required to apply for the club's broader diploma.

Two full-time roles are on offer for the broader diploma graduates, including the First Nations scholarship holder, on completion.

2025 pilot cohort participants Imogen and Zack said being based at the club was a huge plus, as was the classroom environment, guest speakers, engagement in the Crows' women's program and working on match day.

Applications are open through to December 21.