Naomi’s Journey: From Netball Courts to the Heart of Carlton Football Club
For Naomi, sport has never just been a pastime - it’s been a way of life. From her earliest days on the netball court to her current role at one of Australia’s most iconic sporting institutions, Naomi’s career is a story of passion, persistence, and purpose.
Her journey began at just 15 years old, when she took on her first job umpiring netball for Rowville Netball Club at the Mountain District Netball Association. Even then, it was clear that Naomi wasn’t just participating in sport - she was building a future in it.
After completing high school at Rowville Secondary College in 2020, Naomi pursued her passion academically, earning Certificates III and IV in Sport and Recreation. In 2021, she enrolled in the Sport Coaching and Development Diploma at Carlton College of Sport (CCoS), a decision that would prove pivotal in shaping her career.
“The best thing about my time at Carlton College was all the connections I was able to make,” Naomi recalls. “I did multiple placements across different departments and was able to network across the business. That helped me secure my graduate role.”
Her favourite placements were on match days, working in function rooms and fan activations, experiences that gave her a taste of the energy and excitement of professional sport from behind the scenes.
Breaking into the Industry
That graduate role came quickly after her studies, when Naomi joined the Carlton Football Club as a Retail Services Officer. It was her first full-time position in the industry, and it offered a crash course in everything from customer service and merchandising to membership sales and internal communications.
“I loved my job and worked hard,” she says. “I was fortunate to be offered an ongoing position as the Retail Services Coordinator in 2023, and I stayed in that role for two years.”
Naomi’s dedication and versatility didn’t go unnoticed. After three years in the merchandise team, she was offered a new opportunity within the club, this time with Carlton IN Business (CIB), the Club’s corporate networking arm.
A New Chapter: Carlton IN Business
Today, Naomi serves as the Sales and Administration Coordinator for Carlton IN Business, a role that sees her leading marketing initiatives, managing digital content, processing memberships, assisting in event preparations and supporting business development
“I love that I get to be involved in so many areas of the business,” Naomi says. “It keeps things exciting and gives me the chance to keep learning.”
Carlton IN Business is the largest corporate network in the Australian sporting landscape, proudly supported by Penfolds and Virgin Australia. It connects over 160 member organisations across industries like finance, construction, logistics, and hospitality. With a focus on connection, premium experiences, and development, CIB hosts high-profile events, facilitates strategic introductions, and helps businesses grow through meaningful relationships.
Naomi’s transition into the CIB team was made possible by the relationships she had built across the Club. Encouraged by her general manager and supported by colleagues, she embraced the opportunity to grow her skills in a new space.
Looking Ahead
Now in her fourth year in the sports industry, Naomi is focused on continuing to learn and evolve within the Carlton Football Club. Her advice to others hoping to follow a similar path is simple but powerful:
“Make connections and put yourself out there. If you work hard and make a good impression, people will support you. Always be willing to help and say yes to opportunities.”
Naomi’s journey is far from over—but it’s already a shining example of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance in the world of sport.
