On my first day at the Richmond Institute, I didn’t really know what to expect. I naturally assumed it would be just like school, where the focus is solely on coursework and results. However, participating in the Richmond Institute has been an incredible experience that has far exceeded my expectations. I never imagined we’d have the opportunity to be immersed in the club and work alongside staff and players, who have been extremely welcoming and have always made us feel like part of the team.
The course has honestly been life-changing and has created opportunities I didn’t think were possible. Richmond has already taught me so many life skills and allowed us, as students, to explore a wide variety of careers in sport—from fundamental coaching to assisting staff at the Richmond Football Club in areas like membership, football operations, events, fan engagement, and merchandise sales. The “try before you buy” approach to choosing a career in sport has really helped me discover the areas I’m passionate about. For example, I initially had an interest in working in community sport and participated in a coaching placement for kids. I soon discovered that career path wasn’t for me and instead developed an interest in athlete wellbeing and personal growth after learning about recovery through our Strength and Conditioning and Emotional Intelligence sessions, as well as placements at a local recovery facility.
I first discovered the course online while searching for further study options to help me pursue a career in sport. Richmond Institute kept appearing in my searches, and after reading the course information, I instantly felt excited by everything it offered. It sounded like an amazing opportunity. I had also taken part in the Richmond Experience, where I visited the club with my high school to learn more about the program, and I knew straight away that this course would be the perfect fit for me.
One thing I find especially helpful is the incredible amount of support from Richmond Institute staff, teachers, and Student Success Officers. They are constantly checking in and providing assistance—not only with coursework but also with our wellbeing and career development. They’re always happy to chat about your day or share a laugh.
Some of the most memorable moments this year have been the AFL Gameday placements, player interviews, and working with the VFL property team. But by far, the biggest highlight was receiving the Richmond Institute Yiooken Award.
Receiving the Yiooken Award was an absolute honour—especially because it’s peer-voted. I can’t express enough gratitude to my peers and the Richmond Institute staff for being such exceptional role models and helping me shape a successful career pathway. Being selected for an award that represents leadership, connection, and cultural awareness is one of the proudest moments of my life. It reminded me how much I’ve grown thanks to this course and the people within it. I truly believe a significant part of self-development comes from the people you surround yourself with, and there is no better group than my peers at Richmond Institute. We all share similar goals and are committed to being the best we can be.
If you’re someone interested in a career in sport—but aren’t exactly sure what role you want—or if you have a general idea and want exposure to the industry, I couldn’t recommend this course more highly. I believe you’ll be just as proud as I am to be a Richmond Institute student.
This article was written by Anthony Musico a current Diploma of Sport/Diploma of Leadership and Management (SIS50321/BSB50420) student studying in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology and the Richmond Football Club.
