Inspired by the Socceroos, student scores PhD success at Western Sydney University

For Western Sydney University PhD graduate Elie El-Khoury Antonios, inspiration came from an unexpected place, the Socceroos.

The national team’s remarkable performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup left a lasting impression, helping to fuel Elie’s determination to complete his PhD.

“The Socceroos incredible performance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup to reach the Round of 16 and go toe-to-toe with Argentina, especially Lionel Messi, was a huge source of motivation and inspiration for me to push through and complete this difficult PhD journey,” said Elie.

“Their coach at the time Graham Arnold’s emphasis on the mindset – belief, energy and focus – were central to helping me navigate through the PhD journey.”

Born with cerebral palsy, Elie has never allowed challenges to get in the way of his ambitions.

His academic journey at Western Sydney University spans more than a decade, beginning with a Bachelor of Social Work completed in 2017, followed by a Master of Research completed in 2020, where he specialised in the study of people with physical disabilities on student placements, and culminating in his PhD, celebrating the milestone at this week’s graduation.

From the outset, Elie says Western Sydney University stood out for its accessibility, supportive environment and strong placement opportunities.

“Placement was an important part of my social work degree. The amenities and facilities were accessible, as was the campus at large, making it easy for me to attend my classes. Additionally, I had great support with notetaking and associated practical assistance,” said Elie.

Elie cites the support of his entire community as being integral to completing his PhD.

“Through the incredible support of my supervisors, support workers, family, especially my Mum and Dad, and friends across school, work, church and the gym, I managed to navigate this journey. Not to mention as well, the innocent and direct humour provided by my nephews and niece, which was very welcome.”

Elie’s PhD research focused on accommodating students with physical disabilities during placements in the human services sector, a topic deeply connected to his own lived experience and one that motivated him to see the journey through.

He hopes his story will encourage others living with a disability to pursue higher education, emphasising the importance of confidence and self-advocacy.

“It is important to be really proactive, go up and say hi to people, that will help boost your confidence with meeting people and building friendships.”

“I made friends through my tutorials, especially with the mature aged students in my Masters classes, and with other students studying similar degrees to me. I catch up with many of these friends socially now.

“It is also super important to get started on your assessments straight away and to work closely with the disability services team to identify and document what supports you need to succeed in your studies.”

Now working in a policy role within the human services, Elie is applying the skills and knowledge developed throughout his studies, particularly during his PhD, to make a meaningful impact. Within this, he is also drawing on those very same principles the Socceroos coach Graham Arnold emphasised.

“I wanted to develop my research, project management and policy related skills, so undertaking a PhD allowed me to build all three of those skill areas, and in addition to that, to learn how to translate complex material into accessible information for different audiences.”

“My studies have allowed me to develop key technical skills I can use in policy and project related roles, and also the ability to form long-lasting connections with others.

“As I progress in my career and life, I’ll continue to bring the same energy, mindset, focus and belief.”

ENDS.

10 June 2026
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
Lauren Coskerie, Senior Media and PR Advisor