22 January 2025, Mrinal Asija
Sport is a major part of Australian culture and volunteers are the lifeblood of sport. According to an Australian Government report, 14.4% of Australians volunteered in sport in 2022. Whether you grew up here or you have moved to Australia to study, volunteering with a sporting club can be one of the best ways to connect with and give back to the community.
Sporting clubs have been affiliated with the University for over 160 years connecting like-minded peers as part of sporting communities. Off the field, sporting clubs provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience in their field of study, develop leadership skills and more.
Students can now be recognised as part of Melbourne Plus by volunteering with a University of Melbourne sporting club.
Melbourne Plus is the University’s recognition program for student participation in four broad categories: People Leadership, Community Engagement, Sustainability Advocacy or Innovation.
Sam Hoffmann (Master of Mechatronics Engineering) has served as President of the Dancesport Club and the Lifting Club and has recently received recognition through Melbourne Plus. Sam is an interstate student who came to the University during the Covid-19 pandemic. His search for a community in a new environment led him to sporting clubs.
The confidence to take on new challenges has been Sam’s biggest takeaway from volunteering. “You have to step up. You have to try new things which you wouldn't otherwise do. And through this, you really gain a lot of confidence to step outside your comfort zone, talk to new people, and just get accustomed to new things,” he added.
Sihong Wu (Marketing and Communications), who founded the Triathlon Club at the University in 2023, echoed these sentiments. “Melbourne University Sport provides great direction for clubs along with the freedom to bring creative ideas into action,” he said.
“The experience has taught me to become a better communicator. I learned that using “we” instead of “me” will make life much more fun and meaningful,” Sihong highlighted the personal growth he has had through volunteering.
Lilia Coman (Bachelor of Science) has been involved with the Melbourne University Cheer and Dance Club (MUCD) in multiple committee positions. She also credits the volunteering experience with aiding her personal and professional development.
“Being involved with MUCD has given me the chance to connect with a diverse group of athletes, share in their successes, and support them in achieving both individual and team goals. I’ve also developed stronger leadership skills and a greater appreciation for the importance of collaboration,” Lilia said.
“Managing my academic workload alongside my responsibilities as a secretary has taught me the value of planning and adaptability. While it had its challenges, the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie outweighed everything else. Seeing the club grow and members thrive has made the experience truly fulfilling,” she added.
At the heart of sport lies the community connections and camaraderie and that is what these Melbourne Plus volunteers have enjoyed the most about their involvement with sports clubs.
“I'd say my favourite part is just being able to celebrate with more students in my discipline and create something that we're all proud of,” Sam said.
Encouraging other students to volunteer with sporting clubs, Lilia summed up her experience: “It’s a fantastic way to connect with the university community, develop valuable skills, and build lasting friendships. It’s a fun and fulfilling experience that adds depth to your time at university and helps you grow both personally and professionally.”