When Nicole Graves started off in a volunteer position developing pathways for women to play AFL in the Western Australian (WA) region, she did not expect a professional career.

Now General Manager of V Swans, a youth development program within remote communities of WA – part of the Swans District Football Club – Nicole has been able to combine her passion for football with a flourishing career.

Through the Australian Government’s Sports Leadership Grants and Scholarships for Women (SLGSfW) program, Nicole was awarded a three-year scholarship to help her reach her leadership potential.

Supported by the scholarship, Nicole was successful in completing an AFL level three coaching course.

Nicole said the scholarship also built her knowledge in the sports coaching area and developed her networks and ideas by allowing her to interact with other women in the program.

‘Through the SLGSfW program I have been able to open doors that were perhaps closed, but with the right attitude and hard work I have been able to overcome barriers,’ said Nicole.

‘I have been able to work with like-minded people with the same drive and initiative to create things for women and girls in sport.’

Nicole also took part in the mentor program offered through the SLGSfW program which helped her develop better working relationships.

‘This has enabled me to manage my work-life balance to ensure my career and passion for coaching can be developed together.’
 
Nicole plans to continue creating more opportunities for women and girls in sport as well as working with remote communities by promoting the importance and significance of sport.

The Australian Sports Commission and the Office for Women provide development opportunities and training for women to reach their leadership potential within the industry as coaches, officials and administrators.