Luke's Journey: From Passionate Supporter to Future Sport Industry Professional
Carlton College of Sport students have achieved so much across their time at the Carlton Football Club. Hear from one of our current students who has taken full advantage of the opportunities presented to them.
Few students arrive at Carlton College of Sport with a stronger connection to football than Luke.
Having played football and supported Carlton his entire life, Luke's passion for the game naturally evolved into an ambition to work within the industry.
"Sport has taught me commitment, teamwork, preparation and leadership."
Luke first discovered CCoS through Carlton's social media channels and testimonials from former students.
"What attracted me was the opportunity to study while being surrounded by like-minded people and working within a professional club environment."
One subject that particularly stood out was Principles and Practices of Marketing, which has helped provide greater context for how the world of sport operates.
"I've always been interested in how organisations attract customers and build relationships through marketing. Learning about consumer behaviour and promotional strategies was really appealing."
Luke believes the balance between study and practical experience has been one of the biggest strengths of the program.
"We learn the theory and then immediately get opportunities to apply it through placements, game days and industry activities."
Alongside his study and placement, Luke completed the Football Development Program, a high-performance experience offering designed to allow students to develop as an athlete and footballer under the tutelage of Carlton Football Club coaching and high-performance staff while they study.
Managing study alongside football, work and personal commitments initially proved challenging.
"I've become more organised, planned my weeks in advance and made sure I prioritise both my studies and placement opportunities."
Those placement experiences that initially appealed to Luke have proven to be a major highlight. He has worked across a variety of gameday roles, including the President's Club, mascot operations, fan activations and Junior ‘Baggers clinics.
"I love the responsibility and preparation involved. Being on the ground during mascot placements and helping create memorable experiences for fans has been incredible."
Through those opportunities, Luke has developed a much greater appreciation for the work that happens in the background to operationalise sporting events.
"Working in sport isn't just about what happens on the field. It's about planning, problem-solving, communication and teamwork."
His long-term goal is to secure a career within a football club, particularly in operations, administration or event management.
"Placements have helped me discover a real interest in the behind-the-scenes side of running a club."
Beyond his studies, Luke has already begun building industry experience through his work with Spark Event Group, assisting across major sporting events and event operations.
Looking back on his journey so far, Luke believes the experience has given him the foundations to pursue his ambitions with confidence.
"CCoS has turned my passion for sport into purpose, giving me the experience and connections to start building a career behind the game I love."
His three words to describe his time at CCoS?
“Engaging. Growth. Eye-opening.”
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