Championing education

Athletes gain valuable discipline, knowledge and life skills through professional sport. Upskilling and studying can enhance these attributes and prepare you for the next stage of your career.

Leigh Broxham
Graduate Certificate in Community Sport Management, Master of Sport Business

Leigh Broxham is a Socceroo, a four-time A-League Championship winner, the record-holder for most appearances for Melbourne Victory Football Club, and a father of young triplets.

He explains how upskilling in sport business at Victoria University is helping him take his career in new directions.

“I’m currently playing football for Melbourne Victory and studying the Master of Sport Business at VU, having first completed the six-month Graduate Certificate in Community Sport Management.

“My wife, Sam, and I manage Broxham Fitness, also known as BFIT, which focuses on personal fitness and group social training. Starting the business further piqued my interest in sport management as a study choice.”

Upskilling for the future

“The number one reason for me in getting an education is that an athlete’s career is finite. I believe athletes gain valuable discipline, knowledge and life skills through the demands of professional sport.

“Upskilling and studying can enhance these attributes and prepare you for the next stage of your career.”

I chose VU for its partnership with Melbourne Victory and the flexibility of the course structure. VU is supportive of work and life demands, which appealed to me, particularly with a young family. I appreciated VU’s adaptability.

Deepening his sports industry expertise

“For me, the Graduate Certificate in Community Sport Management was a great stepping stone, with a vast amount of knowledge packed in there.

“The course built on my existing industry knowledge. It also deepened my understanding of sports management, and gave me the tools to continue my learning in the Master of Sports Business now.

“The interactions with classmates and exposure to such a diverse range of people and minds at VU is beneficial, and the lecturers are keen to share their knowledge and experience.

“I’ve met some interesting people since beginning my studies. The information and learnings I’ve acquired are the reason I’m studying – I’ve really expanded my knowledge since beginning my studies. And, it’s great that former Melbourne Victory Captain Carl Valeri was studying the same course with me.”

Balancing work, study & family

“Most of us in these courses are working part- or full-time, so everyone is going through the same workload. Even if you think you are too busy for it, you can always make the time to make it work.

“I’ll continue to chip away at my Master of Sport Business over the next few years. As for the business, we want to keep it at a level where it’s worthwhile but doesn’t take over our lives. We still want to enjoy family life and be a big part of our kids’ lives.

“It’s definitely busy! We like the busy lifestyle though. I have a great relationship with my wife, Sam, which makes things much easier. We work together as a team and share responsibilities, which keeps us connected as well.”