From the Court to Careers: TALS Basketball Students Thrive with the JackJumpers

JackJumpers COO Darren Smith presenting 2026 student Zac Zehmeister with his polo. Photo: Josh Quigley

For students in the Basketball stream of the Blundstone Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS), the partnership with the Tasmania JackJumpers has offered more than just a courtside seat — it's opened real-world pathways into the sports industry.

Through hands-on placements with Tasmania’s NBL team, TALS students have gained invaluable insight into what it takes to operate a professional basketball organisation. From organising fan engagement initiatives to managing key events and logistics, the opportunities have been both diverse and deeply immersive.

Students have had the chance to assist with participation clinics in local communities, working alongside players and staff to inspire the next generation of basketballers. These clinics are about more than just sport — they’re about building confidence, promoting active lifestyles, and strengthening community connections.

On game days, students have supported a range of concourse activities and fan engagement experiences. From helping set up interactive zones to running competitions and giveaways, they’ve been a vital part of creating the electric atmosphere that JackJumpers home games are known for.

Major events like the Season Launch and MVP Dinner have provided students with experience in ushering, setup, event logistics, and networking. These moments allow students to see the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into professional events and connect with industry professionals and athletes in a meaningful way.

Other placements have focused on operations such as stocktaking, merchandise organisation, and distribution. These hands-on roles offer an understanding of the commercial and retail side of sport — an often overlooked but crucial part of running a professional team.

The JackJumpers partnership has also brought students face-to-face with some of the top minds in Australian basketball. Head Coach Scott Roth spoke about leadership, resilience, and building a winning culture. CEO Christine Finnegan gave insights into what it takes to run a successful franchise. COO Darren Smith discussed strategy and the day-to-day operational challenges of professional sport. Members of the marketing and operations teams also shared their experiences, providing students with a broad view of the many career pathways available within the industry.

The real success of the TALS Basketball stream is seen in students like Brooke Miller and Tom Brockman, who have turned their placements into professional opportunities.

“I think it’s amazing. I haven’t even finished my course, and I have still gotten this opportunity,” said Brooke, who now works in membership and administration with the JackJumpers after completing a four-week internship.

Meanwhile, Tom has carved out a niche in operations and fan engagement, including work with the team’s beloved mascots, Rum’Un and Jack the Jumper. “It’s amazing interacting with especially the young fans and seeing the excitement on their faces,” Tom shared. His role perfectly blends entertainment and engagement — and he's become a recognisable face (and sometimes mascot!) at every home game.

Through partnerships like this, the TALS Basketball stream is proving that a passion for sport can become a lifelong career — both on and off the court.

2026 JackJumpers students enjoying their first placement at MyState Bank Arena