TALS Students Driving Growth in Tasmanian Sport
Photo: Six of the nine TALS students who now work with AFL Tasmania, joined by Jesse O’Hara and Damian Gill
The Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS) is proving to be a genuine game-changer for the state’s sporting industry, with students stepping directly into roles that are shaping the future of football across Tasmania.
Since launching earlier this year, 25 TALS students have undertaken placements with AFL Tasmania. Impressively, nine have already transitioned into paid positions as Game Development Officers. These roles are giving students invaluable, hands-on experience while making a meaningful contribution to the growth of the game.
From delivering Auskick sessions and school clinics to supporting competition operations, TALS students are having a real and immediate impact. Their work is helping to power AFL Tasmania’s grassroots programs, which continue to expand in step with the growing momentum behind the Tasmania Football Club.
For Head of AFL Tasmania, Damian Gill, the program is delivering clear benefits:
“TALS is brilliant for young Tasmanians wanting to kickstart a career in sport and it’s been a game changer for sporting organisations. It gives us a stream of enthusiastic, capable people who come into roles with the skills and mindset to make an immediate impact.”
Photo: Damian Gill, AFL Tasmania
Tasmania Football Club Consumer Business Manager, Jesse O’Hara, said the academy is successfully bridging the gap between study and the workforce:
“At its core, TALS is about creating real pathways into the sports industry. AFL Tasmania has been a vital partner in this success, providing meaningful placement opportunities across game development, administration, operations, and talent pathways.
Seeing more of our students step into paid roles with AFL Tasmania is incredibly rewarding. It highlights the value of investing in homegrown talent and building sustainable career pathways in sport. Together, we’re helping shape a stronger future for Tasmania.””
Photo: Jesse O’Hara, Tasmania Football Club