Georgia Calderwood’s journey from student to a full-time role at Netball NSW highlights how the Netball NSW Sport & Business Program can turn a passion for sport into a career.
The program offers students access to an elite sporting environment while completing a dual diploma in sport and business, combining classroom learning with real-world industry experience. For Georgia, this meant gaining hands-on exposure to event operations and game-day management, building practical skills and insight that proved invaluable as she progressed into the workforce.
Her first connection with Netball NSW came during a multicultural event, where she impressed staff and was offered work experience. This quickly evolved into a Development Officer role, giving her opportunities to coach, assist in programs, and build confidence in a professional sporting environment.
Her initiative and commitment were recognised when a full-time position became available; encouraged to apply, Georgia stepped into the role while still completing her Sport & Business Program studies.
“The program gave me the chance to really see what working in sport is like,” Georgia reflects.
“Being able to get hands-on experience while still studying made all the difference. I felt like I was learning, growing, and contributing at the same time.”
Balancing work and study was challenging, but with strong support from her teacher and Netball NSW, she successfully graduated with not only qualifications, but also meaningful, ongoing employment. Mentorship played a central role throughout her journey, helping her navigate both the academic and professional expectations of a rapidly evolving program.
Now a valued member of Netball NSW, Georgia regularly engages with current Sport & Business Program students, offering guidance and encouragement drawn from her own experience. Having stood in their shoes just a year earlier, she understands the impact of early exposure, hands-on learning, and supportive mentorship.
Her story underscores the strength of the model underpinning the Sport & Business Program: combining education with direct industry engagement to create genuine pathways into sport careers. Through the partnership with Netball NSW, students not only learn about the sport industry but actively contribute to it, building skills, networks, and confidence along the way.
For Georgia, what began as uncertainty about life after school has become a thriving career, shaped by opportunity, experience, and the ability to step into the industry ahead of her peers. Her journey serves as an inspiring example for future students, showing that a passion for sport, combined with the right pathway, can quickly turn into a rewarding profession.
For more information on how to get involved in 2027 click here
Netball NSW works in collaboration with SEDA Group RTO: 22503 on marketing and promotional services relating to the recruitment of prospective students for this program. SEDA Group is responsible for training, assessment and issuance of AQF certification documentation. Program consists of SIS50321 Diploma of Sport and BSB50120 Diploma of Business. RTO does not guarantee employment.
