Monash University recognises and appreciates the immense value that active involvement in sporting and recreational clubs and programs can bring to our students.

Whether it's fostering social connections, honing skills, or providing essential stress relief, we are dedicated to nurturing and expanding opportunities for students to embark on, and sustain, their sporting journeys throughout and beyond their time at Monash.

Team Monash has established a Women in Sport Network, with the aim to connect student leaders eager to build their networks and leadership skills, with Monash alumni and guests who have had experience and opportunities to speak on career and sporting guidance. 

Research shows that women between the ages of 18 and 24 often disengage from organised sports, resulting in a significant decline in club memberships and overall participation in sports upon entering university. Furthermore, despite Monash University boasting equal participation rates between men and women in club sports, it's evident that female club committee members only represent 21% of Club Presidents.

Women in Sport Network

In an effort to support and encourage diverse and representative leadership in sport, the Women in Sport Network continues to build in 2024.

The Network aims to connect student leaders with like-minded peers and alumni, provide access to development opportunities and build on confidence and leadership skills

If you are interested in being a part of the Women in Sport Network, either as a student or alumni/guest, please use the below link to get in touch.

In 2024 we will be offering a number of opportunities, including:

• a 2 day leadership retreat.

• personal development workshops.

• casual coffee catch ups.

• networking sessions.

• online forums.

• and more!

Please keep an eye on this website and Team Monash social media platforms for more information about initiatives, opportunities and events in this space. 

Get involved here!

Women in Sport Leadership Retreat

On the 8 and 9 of February 2024, Team Monash proudly hosted the inaugural Monash University Women in Sport Leadership Retreat, as part of our Women in Sport Initiatives. 

This event was thoughtfully designed to empower student leaders within the women’s sporting community, external to or within the University, by equipping them with practical skills and the confidence to lead within Monash and beyond.

Across the two days, 27 student leaders from a diverse array of sporting backgrounds networked and connected, bonding through their experiences as aspiring leaders in women’s sports. The conference, led by Master of Ceremonies (and Monash graduate, Volleyball Club President and current staff member) Dr. Amanda Davies, was filled with opportunities to hear from esteemed guest speakers, and participate in workshops focused on leadership development and how to create lasting impact within women’s sports.

As part of the Women in Sport Initiatives, this retreat was developed with the clear objective to form a network of like-minded student leaders and provide skills to these students that can assist them in their sporting leadership journey. Team Monash is proud to say that 100% of attendees agreed that the retreat improved their confidence as a sporting leader.

Check out a wrap up video of the event  HERE.

Women in Sport Luncheon 

In October 2022, Monash University held a Women in Sport Luncheon. At this inaugural event, we launched the conversation about how sport participation provides opportunities for female students to become leaders at a young age.

The event gathered over 100 individuals from the Monash community and provided an opportunity to acknowledge that there are barriers to female participation in sport and encouraged discussion around how we can create a network that supports, encourages and celebrates what women achieve.

The launch event hosted a Q & A with Australian Basketballer, Lauren Jackson AO OLY. Lauren is one of Australia’s greatest female basketballers and was crowned an All-Star in her first WNBA season. Her hard work and dedication to life in and around sport make her an inspirational role-model to women all around the world.

View all the photos from the event on our Facebook page HERE.

Women in Australian Sport - Research and Impact

In Australia, sport is a key part of national identity and within this sporting culture, exceptional female athletes have made significant contributions to Australian sport, bringing home medals, winning championships and competing at the highest levels.

Examples include the success and widespread support for the Matildas (soccer) at the FIFA World Cup, the continued success of the Diamonds (netball) on the world stage, the foundation of the AFLW, and the Opals (basketball) remaining in top-3 positions in international competitions. 

Despite the rise in participation; media coverage and senior leadership rates remain low. Coverage of women’s sports events persists at less than 10% and only 23% of senior leadership roles in sport are occupied by women.

And we want to be part of the solution.

Learn more

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please contact us via the email below.

teammonash-enquiries@monash.edu