International Student Academy a Smash Hit For Tertiary Students

The program uses cricket as the vehicle for creating social cohesion and breaking down associated barriers to inclusion that international students might face, allowing their wellbeing to prosper.

Students were provided with an on-campus experience for these institutions in Orientation Week, attended by BBL players from Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades.

Students were then guided by Cricket Australia accredited coaches during a four-week introductory program, aimed at teaching them the basic skills of batting, bowling and fielding.

Members of the academy also had the opportunity to see Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades BBL matches at the MCG, Etihad Stadium and GMHBA Stadium.

Dayalan Sampath, a keen cricketer and a member of the International Student Academy at Deakin’s Burwood campus, said the opportunities the program gave him were a dream come true.

“The program was an initiative any international student or cricket fanatic would dream of. To take guard or run in to bowl at the MCG indoor stadium, where many legends of the game have been, was an experience that I will remember for a long time!” Dayalan said.

Kangan Institute CEO Trevor Schwenke was delighted with the success of the program, remarking that the improved wellbeing of students involved was evident.

“It’s been great to see our partnership with Cricket Victoria produce such fantastic results, the growth and social development has been visible for the students who have participated and we hope the knowledge, skills and friendships they’ve gained throughout this program stay with them forever,” Schwenke said.

“We place our student’s wellbeing and overall experience very highly, making programs like this Academy highly important to us” said Kangan Institute’s CEO Trevor Schwenke.

Some ISA members are set to take part in the inaugural international student University/TAFE Cup, which kicks off in late April.

Applications for the University/TAFE Cup teams are now open. If you’re interested in participating, contact Aaron Wharton at awharton@cricketvictoria.com.au