Essendon Education Academy student Mua Tavo ‘plays on’ after high school

Mua’s tertiary studies at the Essendon Education Academy are off to a great start, as he excels in exciting placement opportunities with the Club.

A high school excursion to The Hangar, the Essendon Football Club’s training facility, kickstarted Mua Tavo's interest in turning his passion for footy into a career.

Mua’s love of the game was fostered at a young age, where he found purpose and connection on the footy field.

“Footy for me has always been a way to teach others the things I’ve learned so far, whether in footy or in life, and it has helped me build relationships,” Mua said.

After visiting The Hangar, Mua became intrigued by what a career in the AFL might look like. Aided by the invisible hand of Instagram’s algorithm, he came across a social media post about the Essendon Education Academy (EEA) and knew it was for him.

I had been scrolling and applying to different academies, but when I saw the EEA course, I thought it was my best way into the industry.

Essendon Education Academy student Mua Tavo

The EEA is a partnership between RMIT and the Essendon Football Club, offering students a unique opportunity to study a Dual Diploma of Business (BSB50120) and Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420) while gaining exposure to the Club's inner workings.

Students work with teams across a broad range of business units, including fan engagement, events and marketing, which Mua has found particularly beneficial.

“The EEA provides flexibility, exposing different students to different pathways depending on their needs.”

Joining the EEA right after high school was a bit intimidating for Mua, who was worried about making friends and leaving behind the security of high school – but the supportive EEA team helped facilitate his transition.

“It became easier and better. I always found myself behind in high school, but at the Essendon Education Academy, the one-on-one help from my teachers has been enormous to me.”

The people and networking connections I’ve made are amazing.

Grabbing placement opportunities with both hands

Mua’s performance has impressed EEA staff, specifically the dedication and enthusiasm with which he approaches work placements.

The EEA’s Sport Business Placement Program gives students practical experience in completing industry-relevant tasks, providing them with skills and knowledge they can apply in their future careers.

“My favourite placement so far is a tie between AFL Game Day and helping with AFLW analysis,” Mua said.

“During the Game Day placement, I was able to escort the mascots onto the field and engage with fans, helping take pictures and make memories for the little ones.”

“As for the AFLW placement, I learned what it takes to do what I’d like to do as a career – which is analytics.”

Mua hopes to continue making a positive impact on the lives of people who love the game after he graduates at the end of this year.

“I hope to be able to make sport more available for those with disabilities, and I also hope to be part of the Essendon Sports Development staff.”

Mid-year intake for the Essendon Education Academy is now open, closing on July 15, 2024.

Find out how to apply

17 June 2024

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Essendon Education Academy student Mua Tavo ‘plays on’ after high school