Next generation of sports leaders starts learning in Launceston

Celebrating Day 1 of the Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS) program in Launceston (L–R): Anna Reid, Senior Education and Development Manager, Tasmania Devils; Brendan Holland, Executive Director, Education Operations, TasTAFE; Glen McNeill, Senior Education Manager, Tasmania Devils; Hon Felix Ellis MP.

Today marked the first day of study for the Blundstone Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS) program in Launceston – a significant milestone in the expansion of the education pathway into northern Tasmania.

The launch of the Launceston-based program builds on the strong foundations established in Hobart during the Academy’s first year, and reflects TasTAFE’s commitment to growing meaningful education and industry-aligned pathways across the state.

The program is delivered in partnership between TasTAFE and the Tasmania Devils, with industry collaboration from Cricket Tasmania, Netball Tasmania, Tasmania JackJumpers and Jewels. The course combines education with real-world exposure to the sports industry, supporting Tasmania’s growing demand for skilled professionals across sport, events and community programs.

TasTAFE Executive Director Operations, Brendan Holland, said the expansion into the north of the state was a major milestone for the program.

“We were absolutely delighted with the interest from Tasmanians in the program’s first year. The expansion into the north this year, and the demand being shown, is a real milestone for the program. We couldn’t be more pleased,” he said.

“TasTAFE’s partnership with the Devils and the other major sporting codes is how we want to work with industry. The program draws on our expertise and aligns with the needs of industry, providing learners with the best of both worlds.

“We wish the learners in the program across both the north and the south of the state every success this year. We look forward to sharing their journeys and watching their success as they move into careers in Tasmania’s burgeoning sports sector.”

The Launceston program is led by Senior Manager Education & Development, Anna Reid, who is overseeing the delivery of TALS in northern Tasmania and supporting learners as they commence their studies.

Reflecting on the first day, Anna said the program was designed to equip learners with practical skills, industry insight and confidence.

“It’s incredibly exciting to welcome our first Launceston cohort into the TALS program. From Day 1, learners are exposed to the realities of the sports industry and supported to build the skills, networks and mindset needed to succeed,” she said.

“TALS is about creating opportunities that are grounded in Tasmania and connected to industry, and it’s fantastic to see learners from northern Tasmania taking up those opportunities.”

Learners commencing the program said they were eager to begin their studies and explore career opportunities within the sports industry.

“It was hard to believe the opportunity was real, and at times it felt like a dream. A career in sport has been a goal of mine from a very young age,” said learner Jamari Lockhart.

“I am eager to fully embrace the experience, particularly the opportunity to build professional networks and develop my understanding of an elite sporting organisation alongside industry role models. Hopefully it opens doors for a successful career in sport.”

Fellow learner Mackenzie Kilby said being part of the inaugural northern TALS cohort was a proud moment.

“I’m excited and proud to be part of the first northern TALS program. I’m keen to network with likeminded people in the industry in the north and I can’t wait to see what opportunities will open and where the program may lead me to support sport in the north of the state,” she said.

The commencement of the Launceston cohort represents an important step in the continued growth of the Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport, supporting learners across both the north and south of the state and strengthening Tasmania’s future sports workforce.

Hon Felix Ellis MP wished our learners well on their first day of study at the Blundstone Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS) program in Launceston.

Read about the Tasmania Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS) program in Hobart.