Bulldogs and Western Sydney University sign landmark Memorandum of Understanding
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Western Sydney University have come together to sign a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that is set to have a widespread impact across Western Sydney.
The MoU will establish a foundation for a cooperative and productive relationship between the Bulldogs and Western Sydney University, one that will see both parties commit to the growth and development of community and junior sports across the Western Sydney region, in particular the Canterbury-Bankstown LGA.
A core part of the agreement comes in supporting the Club’s elite players by promoting the benefits of higher education, including access to bespoke educational pathways, microcredentials as well as Western Sydney University’s LaunchPad program.
This also includes a formalised volunteer and internship program for students of the University which will provide engagement opportunities with the Club through game days, events and social impact programs, as well as applied projects and tours. The Bulldogs will also feature in future select University activations.
In tandem, the Bulldogs and Western Sydney University will aim to enhance community and junior sports across Western Sydney, with an emphasis on community engagement through schools and events with a focus on women’s sports and multicultural communities.
Professor Meg Smith, Interim Dean of the School of Business at Western Sydney University, said the MoU would further strengthen the existing partnership between the University and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, benefitting the region.
“This collaboration lays the foundation for meaningful initiatives that will support the broader Western Sydney community,” said Professor Smith.
“The partnership will provide valuable internship opportunities for our students, while also fostering impactful engagement and research, with a focus on junior sport, diversity, and increasing women’s participation in sport.”
Aaron Warburton Bulldogs CEO said this partnership with Western Sydney University will create more opportunities than ever for our players to build successful careers both on and off the field.
"This collaboration opens doors for Western Sydney University students to gain hands-on experience through our internship and volunteer programs. With our inaugural NRLW team launching in 2025, we're particularly focused on developing the next generation of players and professionals in Western Sydney,” said Mr Warburton.
"As someone who completed their Executive MBA at Western Sydney University while working in sports, I understand firsthand the value of combining education with practical experience. This partnership will enhance our ability to measure and maximise our community impact, while creating meaningful opportunities for both our players and university students."
Inaugural NRLW squad member Latisha Smythe (opens in a new window) – who is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University’s Bankstown City campus – was in attendance for the historic event.
Latisha was thrilled with the announcement, which she believes will greatly benefit the Club, University and community.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Western Sydney University so far and I’m excited for what this Memorandum of Understanding can provide,” she said.
"This is such a great opportunity for myself, and fellow Bulldogs players to access higher education opportunities, Western Sydney University students to gain invaluable experience through the Club and to positively engage with the local community."
ENDS
10 December 2024
Photo credit: Kyisoe Han
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