Elite Athlete Program helping students chase their goals on and off the court
Managing sport and study with the right support
As a player with the Knox Raiders, Zoe understands the demands that come with competing at a high level. With basketball commitments taking up a significant part of her week, having a university that understands the demands of elite sport has made a real difference.
“The Elite Athlete Program has made it easier to balance university and elite-level sport. Basketball involves training, games, travel and recovery, so having that flexibility and understanding has allowed me to stay on top of my studies while pursuing my sporting goals.” Zoe said.
For Zoe, the biggest benefit is having the program accommodate her sporting commitments. Rather than having to choose between study and basketball when demands increase, the program helps her manage both.
“The flexibility and understanding around my sporting commitments has been the most valuable support. Having a program that recognises the demands of being an athlete has taken some of the pressure away when basketball commitments become demanding", she said. "This has allowed me to manage my uni responsibilities around training and competition and make sure I’m still keeping up to date with uni studies.”
The opportunity to compete at NBL1
Competing with the Knox Raiders has been a highlight of Zoe’s sporting journey, giving her the opportunity to play NBL1 basketball and test herself against some of the best players in the state.
While pursuing these opportunities on the court, Zoe has continued progressing with her university studies, something she says has been made easier through the support of the Elite Athlete Program.
The experience has also helped her develop skills that extend beyond basketball, particularly discipline, organisation, time management and accountability.
“The program has helped me become more disciplined and organised. Balancing uni with the demands of sport requires good time management, planning and accountability, and those skills have carried across into my studies.” Zoe said.
Lessons that go beyond basketball
Like any athlete, Zoe’s sporting journey hasn’t always gone according to plan.
An ACL injury has sidelined her this season and shifted her focus towards rehabilitation and returning to full health.
The discipline and resilience she has developed through sport have helped her approach the setback with the same determination she brings to her studies and basketball.
“Being an athlete has also taught me how to deal with setbacks and stay focused on long-term goals. I think that mindset has become especially important during my ACL recovery and has helped me approach uni with the same determination and resilience.” Zoe said.
Keeping sport and study, side by side
For Zoe, the Elite Athlete Program is about getting the most out of her university experience, studying Physiotherapy and continuing to develop as a basketballer.
She encourages other student-athletes to consider the program.
"Trying to balance sport and uni can be challenging, and having a program that understands the demands athletes face, makes a big difference. It gives you the support and flexibility to pursue your sporting goals without having to sacrifice your education". Zoe said.
"For me, being part of the program has allowed me to continue working towards my goals in both basketball and uni, and I think it’s a great resource for any student who is serious about doing both.” Zoe said.
Ready to pursue your sporting goals?
Check out our Elite Athlete Program and discover how we can support your passion without putting education on hold.