The Partnership

La Trobe University proudly stands as the exclusive Higher Education partner of Carlton Football Club. This partnership is a dynamic blend of education, research, and community engagement, creating a fertile ground for innovation and growth. United by their connection to Melbourne’s North and a commitment to excellence in sport, La Trobe and Carlton are working together to enhance education and community outcomes for the region and beyond.

Carlton College of Sport: A Unique Educational Offering

One of the standout aspects of this partnership is the Carlton College of Sport (CCoS). This unique tertiary education program allows students to combine their first year of study as La Trobe University students with immersive experiences at Carlton Football Club. The program offers a wide range of industry experiences, guest lectures, networking opportunities, and more. Students study at IKON Park in classrooms overlooking the ground, learning from La Trobe University academics while developing their understanding of the industry and their passion areas.

Educational Opportunities and Community Impact

The synergy between La Trobe and Carlton extends far beyond traditional education. La Trobe students are granted access to coveted internship positions at Carlton Football Club (work-based learning), engaging in real-world projects that enrich their academic journey. Postgraduate students and PhD candidates find fertile ground for research at the Club, fostering a culture of inquiry and discovery. Carlton players, too, benefit from this collaboration, pursuing studies at La Trobe University and enhancing their personal and professional development. This mutual support creates a dynamic ecosystem where both students and athletes thrive.

At the heart of this partnership lies a profound commitment to community development. Initiatives like the Adam Saad Pathways Program empower multicultural kids from Melbourne’s North with skills that transcend the field. This program embodies the dedication of La Trobe and Carlton to leveling the playing field and providing opportunities for all. Furthermore, La Trobe's involvement in women-focused injury prevention and advanced training programs underscores their unwavering support for female athletes. Together, these efforts weave a tapestry of inclusivity and empowerment.

Lachlan Webb: A Partnership Success Story

Lachlan Webb's journey is a testament to the transformative power of the La Trobe and Carlton partnership. Graduating from CCoS in 2022 with a higher education diploma in Sport Coaching and Development, Lachlan was able to use his diploma to transition into the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at La Trobe University, Bundoora. His involvement in the program has not only enriched his knowledge and skills but also opened doors to invaluable networking opportunities within the sports industry.

Lachlan completed high school in 2021 at Cootamundra High School in NSW. Driven by his passion for physical education in high school, Lachlan knew sport was his pathway, which was further entrenched during work experience at the Geelong Football Club in 2019.

During Lachlan’s time at CCoS, his favorite placement opportunity was the half-time Auskick placement, supporting primary school students to enjoy the surrounds of the MCG. He also loved meeting and collaborating with so many different people. Coming from a small country town, there weren't many opportunities to branch out and meet people, but CCoS allowed him to network with a lot of great individuals. 

Now in his third year of his bachelor's degree, Lachlan is once again immersed in the Carlton Football Club, working with the High-Performance team to support VFL program athletes. The opportunity to return to Carlton through La Trobe's work-based learning program was irresistible. Despite the high demand, Lachlan applied with modest expectations, hoping for an interview.

After meeting with Carlton staff, he was selected for the position. His previous experience at CCoS fueled his desire to return, drawn by Carlton's excellent facilities, staff, opportunities, and welcoming environment. He knew he had to seize any chance to come back.

During his internship, Lachlan's main responsibilities include:

• Participating in pre-training medical and load management meetings
• Reviewing strength and conditioning data
• Monitoring and assessing GPS data
• Supporting coaches with strength and conditioning programs and athlete development
• Assisting with the set-up of training drills for athletic development and rehab plans

La Trobe’s Work-Based Learning (WBL) Program

La Trobe University offers work-based learning (WBL) placements in the third year of study, allowing students to apply newly acquired skills, behaviours, and knowledge while integrating theory with practice. These placements immerse students in a professional work culture, enhancing their skills further.

In 2025, Carlton Football Club is hosting WBL placements for students from various courses, including:

• Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science
• Bachelor of Nutrition
• Bachelor of Media and Communications
• Bachelor of Business (Sport Management)
• Bachelor of Law

The students are placed across several departments at the Club, including:

• AFL Football Performance/Analytics
• Legal
• Community
• People and Culture
• Events
• Fan Engagement
• AFLW Strength and Conditioning
• AFL Nutrition
• VFL High Performance
• VFL Digital Media
• AFL Media and Communications

Lachlan’s Future Aspirations

Lachlan's future goals in the industry are to work in an elite sporting environment. To be able to take his passion for sport, particularly AFL, and turn it into a career would be a dream come true. His best piece of advice for those looking to be involved in the sporting industry is to take every opportunity that comes your way. Lachlan believes in the mantra 'you get out what you put in,' and his journey is a testament to the power of saying yes to new experiences.

The partnership between La Trobe University and Carlton Football Club is a shining example of how collaboration can drive positive change in education and community development. By leveraging their combined expertise, these institutions are creating pathways for students and athletes to excel both on and off the field. Lachlan Webb's success story is just one of many that illustrate the profound impact of this partnership. As La Trobe and Carlton continue to work together, the future looks bright for all those involved.

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