Sixteen players from the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS have started an education journey by undertaking the first session of the Accelerated Sports Management Program (ASMP).  The program which is based around a Diploma of Sport and Recreation will cover different topics of sports management including:

Career Planning
Talent Identification
Athlete Welfare
Sports Marketing
Sponsorship
Sports Administration
Contracts

During and after each topic, the players will need to undertake assessments to ensure there has been a transfer of learning.  Although the players are involved in AFL they will be presented with the opportunity to go and observe other sports, speak to other athletes and industry professionals.  'It's all about a learning experience." says ASMP CEO Michael Bokody.  

"These players understand the AFL system but sports management just doesn't consist of AFL or being a player agent.  We want the players to experience different areas of the industry through different sports."

While it might sound easy for an athlete to learn about sports management, the program has required the players to make a commitment to attend classes once a fortnight, study in their own time and complete self paced and in class assessments.

We asked Michael what he thought about the players reaction to the program.  "It's really exciting to see the players take to a program like this," said Michael.  

"Footballers tend to have a stigma about them when it comes to education but they are being presented with topics they are comfortable with and have an interest in.  This is the perfect program to get them comfortable, confident and interested in learning."

While the program has links to Universities the players have the option of deciding where they go next.  

"The commitment is one year.  Once they finish they can use the qualification to move into a sports management degree or other areas of study - it's up to them."

If you want to be part of the ASMP, just like the GIANTS, then make sure you visit www.iamsport.com.au.  

The program which launches to the public in February 2013 is available in 12 locations across the country.  

While considered an online program the program consists of six face to face sessions where students will get an opportunity to interact and hear from athletes, coaches, agents and industry professionals.

Registrations can be completed on the website with questions about the program can be directed to the ASMP team at enrol@asmp.net.au.