Block 1 in our Panthers Sport and Business class has been nothing short of amazing! From exciting new experiences to hands-on learning, this block opened the door to heaps of opportunities that helped us connect with new people, develop real-world skills, and explore the sporting industry like never before.
Our schedule was jam packed right from the start with coaching clinics, business workshops, and community events that brought classroom learning to life. We had the chance to work with professionals, run coaching sessions with local schools, step behind the scenes at an NRL game day, and even take part in the Panthers Super Clinic with hundreds of young fans.
One of the most rewarding parts of Block 1 was definitely the coaching sessions. We delivered rugby league clinics across mainstream schools in the Penrith area, support units, and even disability schools — experiences that taught us just how powerful sport can be in bringing people together.
Isaac shared that coaching junior rugby league was one of his highlights from the block, saying how much of a “enjoyable and rewarding experience” it was, and how great it was to see kids go “from being a bit uninterested to becoming enthusiastic and ready to learn.” Watching the younger students develop confidence, skills, and excitement for the game was a reminder of why sport matters to so many people. It also gave us the chance to work with people in our class we may not normally surround ourselves with, while learning important skills like adaptability and quick thinking.
We also got an incredible behind-the-scenes look at what really happens on NRL game day. Our whole class had the chance to take on a wide range of roles within the business side of operations. Some of us worked with memberships, making sure club members and player families had the right seating and an awesome experience. Others helped run the 50/50 raffle, connecting with fans and raising money for the Penrith Foundation charity. These are just a few of the incredible opportunities our class got to experience while seeing game day from a whole new perspective!
Another huge part of Block 1 was all the workshops we got to do throughout the term, which really opened our eyes to the real-life workings of the club. We heard from people across different areas of the business, including game day operations, memberships, HR, and marketing, and each session gave us a better understanding of how much goes on behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.
A real standout was hearing from Jeremy, the General Manager of Commercial at the club, and learning about his journey from intern to where he is now. It was awesome to hear how he worked his way up through the club and showed us that there are real opportunities to grow if you put in the work and stay dedicated. Hearing from people in all these different roles helped connect what we learn in class to the real world and showed us just how many career paths there are in sport.
We also had some amazing WIL opportunities throughout the block, giving us the chance to step into real roles and contribute to the business. For example, Kalle got to experience private training sessions, take photos, and learn new video skills, while Sam and Charlotte helped out with memberships by creating VIP packages and answering phone calls. These are just some of the opportunities we were lucky enough to get, and each one helped us build confidence, learn new skills, and get a better idea of what working in sport is actually like.
A major highlight for a few lucky students in our class was spending a week in Bathurst. That trip had everything — coaching clinics, community work, team bonding, and unforgettable experiences.
When catching up with Sophie, she told us the week was amazing from start to finish. The group kicked things off with a Girls Only Clinic, encouraging and supporting young girls in rugby league while having fun and developing skills. They were even joined by the Panthers Harvey Norman Women’s Squad, who brought heaps of energy, healthy competition, and some epic try celebrations!
Throughout the week, the group visited local primary schools, coached across different age groups and abilities, and connected with kids in the community. Sophie also got to assist at the massive Panthers Super Clinic, where over 400 kids joined in for games, activities, and player meet-and-greets — all smiles and excitement everywhere!
Another standout moment was partnering with Zenn Ability to run clinics at disability schools and support units. Seeing the joy and confidence of every participant reminded us that sport truly is for everyone.
To top off the week, the group attended the Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks game, helping sell tickets for the 50/50 raffle to raise funds for the Panthers Foundation. After hitting their goal, they got the chance to go on the field post-game — an unreal moment that gave them a glimpse into the professional world of sports events.
But it wasn’t all hard work! The group had time for team bonding too — like tackling the steep Mount Panorama walk, cheering each other on uphill and laughing all the way down, and finishing the week with a friendly and competitive lawn bowls session.
Block 1 was full of learning, growth, and laughter. From connecting with industry professionals to coaching the next generation of players, we’ve gained real-world experience and made memories that will stick with us.
It’s safe to say Block 1 set the bar high — but if this is anything to go by, the rest of the year is going to be just as exciting! The Panthers Sport and Business crew are ready to take on whatever comes next.
Kalle Burns
2026 Panthers Sport & Business Program Student
