Western Sydney University students lead press conference at Wanderers FC
Last month, first-year Sports Management students from Western Sydney University’s School of Business immersed themselves in a mock press conference at Wanderers FC.
During this exercise, the students assumed the roles of members of the media, directing questions to the players. These questions were formulated based on scenarios developed by the University in collaboration with the Wanderers, offering the students a practical insight into the world of sports management and media interaction.
Sports Management student, Joel Beauchamp, said the experience reaffirmed his desire to work in the sporting industry.
“We arrived at the Wanderers Football Park and were led to their Media Room, where we were then prepared for the mock press conference. Once the players and the coach entered, all of the students were given the opportunity to ask questions they had prepared,” said Joel.
“It furthered my interest in pursuing work where I can assist athletes to deliver effective answers to questions and maintain good relationships with media.”
The experience correlated directly to studies regarding the role of the media in Australian sport, a topic that the sports management students have been undertaking in the classroom.
“We have been assessing responses given by athletes in situations such as press conferences, and the different techniques used by them depending on the questions when delivering answers. This experience at Wanderers FC thoroughly supported what I learnt in the classroom,” said Joel.
“It additionally reminded me of Western Sydney University’s involvement with the community, and connections with professional organisations.”
International exchange student, Valeria Crespo Sada, agreed that the mock press conference helped students get real world experience in a simulated environment, to hone their skills.
“This experience was really helpful to put in practice most of the things that we saw in class. It gave us a good taste of what it’s like in real life instead of just reading it or making examples in class,” said Valeria.
“The highlight of this experience was seeing how everyone was learning, because besides from us students, you could see that the coach, players and other staff of the Wanderers were learning too.”
As part of the experience the students were given the opportunity to take photos with the players and tour the facility.
Subject coordinator of the excursion Dr Jess Richards, School of Business, said experiences like this are invaluable to students.
“It is fantastic that we are able to partner with Wanderers FC, and other industry partners, to provide these hands-on experiences that prepare our students for the real world and help them feel job ready.”
ENDS
Lauren Austin, Senior Media Officer
14 November 2023
Photo: Supplied
Latest News
The following is a transcript of an interview that aired on ABC Radio National Saturday Extra between presenter, Nick Bryant and Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO.
Western Sydney University are the number one Australian solar car team at the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge
Western Sydney Solar Car team has crossed the finish line placing preliminarily sixth in the world overall, and the number one Australian team in the world’s most prestigious solar car challenge.
Western Sydney University Statement on Cyber Incidents
Western Sydney University has issued an update to its community following confirmation that previously stolen personal information was published online, including on the dark web.