TAFE NSW graduate Michael Rennie is living the dream – nabbing a coveted job with a professional AFL team as a strength and conditioning coach after completing his study with TAFE NSW.

A former high-level sprinter, Michael took a step back after enrolling in an advance science degree and reassessed where his passions lay. He decided to change tack and pursue a career in health and fitness, enrolling in the Certificate III in Fitness at TAFE NSW Meadowbank.

He made the smart choice to enter the booming fitness industry, with the number of Sports Coaches, Instructors and Officials expected to grow very strongly over the next 5 years to 47,800 by 2023[1].

Michael said, “I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for TAFE NSW.

“I studied the Certificates III and IV in Fitness and two Diplomas with TAFE NSW and my experience was second to none. I found the diplomas quite challenging, but the teachers were amazing and extremely helpful.”

While studying with TAFE NSW, Michael’s teachers were able to secure work experience for him with the Parramatta Eels’ Jersey Flegg team. Michael credits his teachers with helping him get his foot in the door and giving him his first taste of elite sport.

“I never expected my career to progress into something like this. It was the opportunities provided, throughout the qualification, which made all the difference for me; I wouldn’t have had those opportunities unless the staff at the TAFE NSW had taken me under their wing and provided me with mentorship.”

Michael continued his education and pursued a degree and PhD through which he was able to secure his dream job working with a professional AFL team.

“In 2014 I started working as a strength and conditioning coach full time. It really has been my career highlight as working at that elite level was all I ever wanted to do and the AFL is the best place to do it.

“Since working in the AFL I’ve been part of 2 grand finals, worked with some incredibly talented and hardworking players and been part of a very good club. I am very fortunate to be able to do what I love every day. TAFE NSW gave me that opportunity.”

To find out more about the range of Sports and Fitness courses on offer at TAFE NSW in 2020 visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0402 528 210.