Fresh from selection to the Sydney Swans inaugural AFLW team, Kiara Beesley has returned to her old school to share the nutrition and career insights that come with being an elite athlete.
Beesley, who graduated from Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer in 2018 as college Dux, was first exposed to AFL at a Sydney Catholic Schools gala day for the sport.
She spoke to Year 9 and 10 Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) students on 23 June about her journey as a professional athlete.
Beesley honed her skills in the QBE Sydney Swans Academy, where she captained a side, and has returned from a knee injury to join the 2022/23 season.
OLMC’s Leader of Learning and Innovation, Lauren Batty, said students were able to draw on the forward’s knowledge in the areas of nutrition, coaching styles, injury and intervention.
“Kiara shared overcoming injury setbacks as well as the importance of discipline, focus and commitment,” she said.
“As a past student, her engagement with our girls has been invaluable” – Lauren Batty
“Students saw themselves in Kiara and felt comfortable to ask insightful questions not only about life as a professional athlete, but also her pathway from OLMC to De La Salle Cronulla and beyond.”
The visit was part of the college’s Future Focused Learning Program, which seeks to establish real-world connections in various curriculum areas for students. It follows SBS journalist Taya Dendrinos’ May workshops with the college’s English and co-curricular media students.