Flinders University and the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) are teaming up to launch a new Diploma in Sports Management (Cricket), a study pathway offering students exciting career prospects in the booming international cricket and sport industry.

The first of its kind in state cricket and based between the iconic Adelaide Oval and the newly built Flinders’ City campus, the one-year diploma will see students develop an in-depth understanding of sport management – from running fan events to marketing sporting organisations.

The program includes exclusive student experiences at SACA community engagements, match day operations, marketing and commercial activities with the South Australia and Adelaide Strikers men’s and women’s teams through their work integrated learning.

Henry Hunt, a current player and student at Flinders University, has seen firsthand the dedication and expertise that go into running a successful cricket organisation like the SACA.

“This diploma is brilliant because it gives cricket fans a chance to get behind the scene insights into how a sporting organisation is run and be part of the action off the field,” he said.

A cricket oval and university campus may seem polar opposites but for Henry Hunt, the insights gained in both environments are shaping his journey towards success in business and as a sportsperson, with these industries intertwined today more than ever.

The talented batsman for the South Australia men’s side is currently balancing studying a Flinders business course with the demands of his burgeoning career in professional cricket. For passionate cricket lovers who may not be blessed with Henry’s abilities but want to be immersed in the sport, the 27-year-old says the administration side of the industry offers an intrinsic opportunity to pursue a career in the business aspects of sport.

“Students can learn the ropes from the best in the business, right here at the Adelaide Oval. Whether your dream is managing a local club or working with an international team, this program equips you with the skills to make it happen,” Henry said.

Last year, the Adelaide Strikers WBBL and Flinders University forged a new partnership, showcasing Flinders commitment to female sport in South Australia. The Strikers WBBL team continued to go from strength to strength both on and off-field, becoming back-to-back Champions, they’ll now begin their hunt this summer for the illusive three-peat.

Adelaide Strikers spin bowler Jemma Barsby is excited to see the opportunities the diploma will create for women.

“It’s a game-changer for women who love cricket but don’t see themselves as professional players. This program opens doors to fantastic careers in areas like sports management, marketing, events, and commercial.”

As the official Education Partner of SACA and the Adelaide Strikers, the new Flinders diploma will teach students the core skills needed to begin their career in the sports sector, backed by 100 hours of practical and hands-on training with experienced SACA management and staff.

Successful completion of the diploma will mean students can also step into bachelor degrees at Flinders’ new city campus with credit for their year of study.

Flinders University Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Romy Lawson said the diploma will create career opportunities for students aspiring to leadership in sport, connecting them with inspirational and elite cricketers through insider experience and the operations of an iconic South Australian sporting organisation.

“The Flinders curriculum will enable students to learn how a sporting association operates across codes, gaining marketing and event management skills behind the scenes, and building professional networks at the same time.”

“The Flinders program focuses on the business of sport with SACA, including topics on financial management, sport marketing and fan engagement. We know Australians are passionate about their cricket and students with the right skills can apply them in local clubs or at the top level of the sport after completing this program.”

SACA Commercial General Manager Sam Elliott said the joint diploma is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring sports industry professionals.

“Not only will students gain an inside understanding of the key facets that go into the running of a professional sporting body, but they’ll also get unparalleled access to the inner workings of the SACA right here at Adelaide Oval. Imagine learning the fundamentals of marketing, fan engagement, brand activation, and event operations while working alongside our team on a matchday. This is hands-on learning at its finest.”

For more information, please visit the Diploma webpage. https://www.flinders.edu.au/study/diploma-sports-management-cricket and https://www.saca.com.au/community/flinders-saca-diploma-sports-management