First Nations youngster Beau Robinson hopes one day to be an AFL coach.
A proud Indigenous man from the Muruwari, Kullili and Kooma tribes, he is on track to fulfil that dream through the Gold Coast College of Sport and Business program at TAFE Queensland's Academy of Sport.
While studying the Diploma of Sport/Diploma of Leadership and Management, Beau gets to learn the intricacies of the AFL industry by spending time with coaches from the Gold Coast Suns.
And the best part of the TAFE course is, it's free.
"The facilities and how people conduct themselves here are so professional, and it feels like I'm part of a small community," Beau said.
"My skills and confidence have improved dramatically, and I'm currently coaching community AFL in Toowoomba with the Under 14s University Cougars in the Darling Downs AFL.
"Studying with TAFE Queensland has also allowed me to meet new people and gain industry skills and knowledge while building my confidence.
"The theory has also helped me delve deeper into topics we may not focus on while training in the workplace."
The 18-year-old commutes to the Gold Coast from Toowoomba each week for study and hopes to bring the coaching skills he has learnt back to his home town to help develop young players.
"I use my newfound coaching skills to help kids enjoy training and winning games and build a social network through coaching with the families and the community," he said.
"I love seeing the players I'm coaching grow and improve.
"I began playing AFL in prep through an Auskick program, which saw me joining a local AFL club, and since then, I've always played AFL.
"Having previously studied with TAFE at Schools, I had confidence that this course would help me develop my career in athlete development."
TAFE Queensland Brisbane general manager, Brent Kinnane, said he was delighted the Academy of Sport connects students like Beau with elite sports clubs.
He said the academy helps students understand the professional realities of the sporting industry as they learn in world-class facilities.
"Through our Academy of Sports partnerships, like the Gold Coast College of Sport and Business program, students are exposed to a professional environment to build their skills," he said.
"This program has allowed Beau to build his skills alongside professional players, coaches, and administrators. As a result of his commitment to study and hard work, he's now on his way to a fulfilling coaching career, and we wish him all the best.
"Vocational Education and Training plays a crucial role in equipping individuals with practical skills and preparing them for the ever-evolving workforce."
