Ministry of Sport

Ministry of Sport Unveils Women in Sport Summit 2026 at Adelaide Oval

Posted on June 16, 2026June 19, 2026 by Courtney

Australia’s leading commercial platform for women’s sport returns, bringing together the decision-makers, investors, athletes and brands shaping the future of the industry.

With global investment in women’s sport accelerating at an unprecedented rate, alongside record audience growth and expanding commercial opportunities, the Women in Sport Summit arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry.

Scheduled to take place from 19–22 October 2026 | Adelaide, and South Australia are uniquely positioned to lead this next chapter — emerging as a destination for world-class sporting events, innovation, leadership and long-term growth across the global sports economy.

The platform will transition to direct commercial acceleration, uniting prominent international executives, institutional investors, elite athletes, and tier-one corporate brands under a unified corporate framework.

Ministry of Sport founder and CEO, Ben Parsons, emphasised that the national sports landscape has arrived at a critical juncture requiring coordinated executive action to sustain current commercial momentum.

“Women’s sport in Australia has reached a defining commercial moment.”

“WISS exists to bring together the leaders, brands and investors shaping what comes next,” Parsons stated.

The Summit is engineered to map the entire commercial pipeline of the women’s sports ecosystem, from emerging talent pathways to high-performance science and institutional capital allocation.

Day 1: Futures Day on focusing on career pipelines for students.

Day 2 : Performance Forum, an exercise and sports science Australia accredited assembly bringing together high-performance coaches, sports scientists, and medical specialists.

Day 3: Leadership Summit, where sporting executives, media rights lawyers, corporate marketers, and venture capitalists will analyse strategies to unlock alternative revenue streams, scale emerging sports properties, and establish sustainable investment structures.

Day 4: WISS Barossa Leadership Experience, a curated corporate networking track designed to facilitate long-term business relationships and joint venture deals.

From grassroots pathways to elite performance and commercial growth, WISS connects every stage of the ecosystem in one unified platform featuring global executives, visionary athletes, and industry disruptors across key sectors. Attendees will gain exclusive insights into unlocking new revenue streams, scaling women’s sport properties, and building sustainable commercial ecosystems that deliver long-term value.

This is not a conference. It’s a commercial inflection point for women’s sport.

Proudly brought to you by event partners: Business Events Adelaide, South Australian Government

Early Bird tickets are now available: Women in Sport Summit Australia 2026 – Ministry of Sport.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.

PTP joins London Broncos family as Official Club Partner

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Courtney

London Broncos have announced a partnership with Australian fitness and recovery specialist, PTP.

As an Official Club Partner, the collaboration sees PTP providing a comprehensive range of premium training, recovery, and performance products to the Broncos, reinforcing the organisation’s dedication to maintaining a competitive edge as they build momentum towards their goal of promotion to the Super League for the 2027 season.

For PTP, the partnership serves as a key milestone in its ongoing international expansion, aligning the brand with one of the most recognisable rugby league clubs in the United Kingdom. By embedding their innovative fitness solutions into the Broncos’ daily training regimen, PTP is positioning its brand at the centre of professional rugby league high-performance standards.

The practical implementation of the deal was showcased at the Broncos’ training base in Sunbury, where PTP board member and Australian rugby legend George Gregan joined the squad.

During the session, players integrated PTP’s range of performance tools, illustrating the functional application of the partnership.

Commenting on the new partnership, London Broncos head of performance, Blake Duncan, said: “PTP is an innovative and respected brand within the fitness industry, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the Broncos family.”

“Their range of products not only helps our players to prepare for training and games but also recover during the week.

“It is a great fit for our high-performance environment,” Duncan said.

The Broncos are looking to gain an advantage in the physically demanding landscape of professional rugby. PTP’s involvement is not merely superficial branding; it is a technical integration designed to support the squad throughout the rigorous domestic season.

As the club continues to refine its off-field commercial strategy to mirror its on-field ambitions, this partnership highlights a move toward sustainable, high-performance practices, ensuring players are equipped with the best resources to achieve success.

Dallas Mavericks Secure JPMorganChase as First NBA Jersey Patch Partner

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Courtney

The Dallas Mavericks have officially entered into a multi-year strategic partnership with JPMorganChase, marking a significant commercial milestone as the financial services giant secures its inaugural NBA jersey patch position.

This collaboration sees the Chase logo placed on the upper left side of all four official Dallas Mavericks player jerseys, as well as those available for retail purchase at Mavs Shops.

The deal focuses on an extensive activation strategy within the American Airlines Center, which includes a dedicated entrance for eligible cardholders and exclusive fan benefits.

Mavericks CEO Rick Welts highlighted the strategic alignment of the two organisations.

“Partnering with JPMorganChase marks an important milestone for the future of the Dallas Mavericks. As an industry leader, Chase is at the forefront of superior client service, operational excellence and a winning culture – all principles we share.”

“We look forward to working together to elevate our fan experience and create meaningful impact in North Texas for years to come,” Welst said.

Emphasising the broader regional importance of the alliance, south region market leadership team chair and CEO of Digital Assets and Blockchain Solutions at Chase, Peter Muriungi, said: “Today marks an exciting new chapter for Chase in Dallas. The Mavericks are one of the most recognisable franchises in sports, and we’re proud to partner with a team that brings people together across North Texas.”

“As a longstanding member of the Dallas community, we look forward to creating memorable fan experiences, delivering value for our customers and investing in initiatives that help our communities thrive,” Muriungi said.

The agreement is designed to drive value for the significant customer base Chase holds in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, which currently encompasses nearly 200 branches and 2.9 million customers.

For fans, this translates into tangible rewards, including ticket offers, preferred seating, and VIP experiences throughout the season.

JPMorganChase will present the “Mavs Business Assist” program, providing a series of workshops and programming to elevate new stage businesses.

Furthermore, the two organisations will collaborate on developing new community basketball courts, demonstrating a long-term commitment to active lifestyles in the region.

Toyota Hilux Secures Naming Rights for New Zealand Rugby’s Domestic Competitions

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Courtney

New Zealand Rugby has announced a partnership with Toyota Hilux, naming the automotive icon as the official partner for the National Provincial Championship, the Farah Palmer Cup, and the Heartland Championship for the 2026 season.

The partnership aims to strengthen the commercial visibility of the competitions through field markings, LED signage, and on-ground activations at selected matches throughout the season.

This partnership brings together two enduring institutions, both of which are marking their 50th anniversaries this year. The collaboration is designed to integrate the Hilux brand deeply across New Zealand’s domestic rugby landscape, leveraging the shared heritage and community standing that both the brand and the sport have cultivated over the past five decades.

Commenting on the partnership, New Zealand Rugby’s chief commercial officer, Chris Brown, said: “Our domestic competitions represent the heartbeat of rugby in New Zealand, and we’re incredibly pleased to welcome Hilux as the naming rights partner.”

“Toyota has already become a valued member of the New Zealand Rugby whānau through its partnership with our national teams, and we’re excited to build on that relationship with their support of the competitions that are the foundation of our game,” Brown stated.

Noting the significance of the timing, Toyota New Zealand assistant VP for marketing, Sustainability and Technology, Susanne Hardy, added: “Few brands and sporting competitions can say they’ve been part of New Zealand life for 50 years.”

“Hilux and the NPC have both earned their place through generations of trust, loyalty and support from communities across the country.

“As we celebrate those milestones together in 2026, we’re proud to see the Hilux name alongside competitions with such a rich history.

“It’s an opportunity to honour what these competitions have contributed to New Zealand while helping support their future for the next generation of players and fans,” Hardy said.

The domestic season is set to launch shortly, with the Hilux National Provincial Championship commencing on 30 July 2026, with all matches to be broadcast via SKY and TVNZ+.

This will be followed by the commencement of the Hilux Heartland Championship on 15 August, and the Farah Palmer Cup presented by Hilux on 29 August.

Justin Bieber to co-headline FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final Halftime Show with Madonna, Shakira and BTS

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Courtney

FIFA has announced a star-studded lineup for the inaugural FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final Halftime Show. Taking place on Sunday, 19 July 2026, at the New York New Jersey Stadium, the 11-minute broadcast will be co-headlined by Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, and BTS.

The performance, curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay, promises a groundbreaking spectacle designed to resonate with a global audience of billions.

The event serves as the primary fundraising vehicle for the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an ambitious initiative with a target of USD100 million (AUD144 million) aimed at expanding access to education and football opportunities for children in underserved communities.

FIFA has already raised more than USD50 million (AUD72 milion) for the cause, bolstered by a commitment to donate USD1 (AUD1.44) from every ticket sold for the 2026 tournament.

Commenting on the partnership, FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, said: “When it comes to what the world needs, there is nothing more important than education.”

“We are proud to have Justin Bieber joining Madonna, Shakira and BTS to co-headline the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Halftime Show in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and our mission to expand access to quality education and football opportunities for children around the world,” Infantino said.

Expressing his excitement, pop-star, Bieber, said: “The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can.”

“I’m grateful to be part of this Halftime Show, and even more grateful knowing it’s already helping expand access to education for children around the world,” Bieber noted.

The production, led by Global Citizen in partnership with Live Nation and Done + Dusted, also features performances by Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel, and the PS22 Chorus featuring Coldplay. To further emphasise the educational theme, characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets will participate in the show.

For the headline acts, the event represents a unique opportunity to use the platform of the world’s most-watched sporting event for humanitarian impact.

As part of the broader ‘Unite for Education’ campaign, the 2026 tournament has integrated social advocacy into every stage of the competition, with players wearing commemorative sleeve patches during the knockout rounds to raise awareness for the Fund.

One New Zealand Warriors and Dreamworld Announce ‘Wahsworld’ Park Takeover

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Courtney

The One New Zealand Warriors and Australia’s largest theme park, Dreamworld, have announced a three-year partnership that will see the Gold Coast attraction temporarily rebrand as “Wahsworld” during the club’s annual away fixtures against the Gold Coast Titans.

The initiative aims to create an immersive fan hub for the Warriors’ large contingent of supporters in South East Queensland, transforming standard away games into an extended, multi-day fan experience.

The transformation begins in the lead-up to the Warriors’ Round 22 NRL clash against the Titans on Saturday, August 1, 2026. During this period, Dreamworld will undergo a comprehensive aesthetic overhaul, featuring the iconic Dreamworld Tower illuminated in Warriors colours and the club’s crest displayed prominently on the M1 highway billboard. Furthermore, park mascots Kenny and Belinda will be outfitted in full Warriors kit, while the park introduces pop-up merchandise stores and Kiwi-inspired night markets.

Commenting on the partnership, One New Zealand Warriors CEO, Cameron George, said: “It’s really exciting to have Dreamworld embracing us in this way.”

“It’s one of Australia’s most iconic tourist attractions and to promote the Wahs like this is huge, with so many New Zealanders living on the Gold Coast and in South East Queensland,” George said.

Noting that the activation aligns with the park’s objective of fostering community through shared experiences, Dreamworld CEO, Greg Yong, added: “Wahsworld is about giving those fans a reason to make a full day of it—celebrating their team in a way that feels fun, welcoming and uniquely us.”

The partnership also prioritises accessibility and community development, with Dreamworld offering discounted entry for New Zealand passport holders and Warriors members.

Beyond the immediate fan experience, the collaboration extends to the grassroots level, with Dreamworld providing support to the “Warriors Inspire Logan” academy through discounted access for participants and their families.

The centrepiece of the activation occurs on match day, August 1, featuring a fan march down Dreamworld’s Main Street, followed by a live watch party within the park.

Women’s Professional Baseball League Unveils Team Logos Ahead of Inaugural Season

Posted on July 9, 2026 by Courtney

The landscape of professional sports in the United States is set to expand this August with the launch of the Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL).

The WPBL aims to establish a sustainable professional infrastructure for women in baseball, drawing inspiration from the historic legacy of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

Ahead of the inaugural season, which kicks off on August 1 at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield, Illinois, the league has officially unveiled the nicknames and branding for its four foundation teams, each paying homage to pioneering figures in American history.

The league has already attracted high-profile talent, with Kelsie Whitmore, the first overall pick in the inaugural draft, set to anchor the roster for the San Francisco Firebells. Meanwhile, former Little League sensation Mo’ne Davis and veteran Japanese pitcher Ayami Sato will headline the Los Angeles Queens.

For players like Whitmore, the league represents a long-awaited opportunity.

“This is just every little girl’s dream to play professional baseball, and now for us to actually be with each other — there’s so much freedom and peace within it,” Whitmore shared during a recent practice session.

The league features the San Francisco Firebells, the Los Angeles Queens, the New York Heights, and the Boston Hunters. The branding strategy is deeply rooted in cultural significance, with each identity designed to reflect the legacy of trailblazing women:

New York Heights: Inspired by Dorothy Irene Height, a titan of the civil rights and women’s rights movements. The logo features graphic lines echoing both the New York City skyline and the velocity of a fastball.
San Francisco Firebells: Named after Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a legendary supporter of San Francisco’s volunteer firefighters. The logo is a creative fusion of a bell and a phoenix.
Los Angeles Queens: A tribute to Lizzie Murphy, widely known as the “Queen of the Diamond.” The logo features a capital “Q” crowned by four baseball diamonds.
Boston Hunters: Honouring Harriot K. Hunt, a nineteenth-century physician and women’s rights activist. The team is represented by an osprey clutching a baseball bat.

The inaugural season will run through the second half of September, encompassing both the regular season and playoffs. The Women’s Professional Baseball League is positioning itself as a vital new addition to the global sports ecosystem, providing fans and athletes alike with a platform to celebrate the future of women’s baseball.

South32 Cannington Extends Partnership with Townsville Fire for Three Years

Posted on July 8, 2026July 8, 2026 by Courtney

The Townsville Fire, reigning five-time WNBL champions, have announced a significant three-year extension to their major partnership with South32 Cannington.

This renewed agreement ensures that the collaboration, which first commenced in 2015, will extend beyond a decade, cementing its status as one of the most durable and impactful sponsorships in Australian women’s basketball.

The partnership renewal focuses on balancing high-performance sporting excellence with tangible social impact across North and North West Queensland.

Central to the new agreement is the expansion of the club’s regional western tour, which will see Fire players conduct basketball coaching clinics and leadership-focused mentoring sessions within South32 Cannington’s local operating communities. These outreach programs are designed to provide local youth with direct access to elite athletes, fostering skills in resilience, leadership, and personal development alongside fundamental sporting instruction.

Commenting on the partnership, South32 Cannington VP of operations, Rob Jackson, said: “South32 Cannington is really proud to be a long-term supporter of Townsville Fire and we’re pleased to extend our sponsorship for another three years.”

“As well supporting the team on the court, our partnership is helping to make a real difference for young people living in our local communities.

“It’s been inspiring for local teenagers to meet some of the Townsville Fire stars,” Jackson stated.

CEO of Townsville Fire, Sam Pascoe, lauded the alignment of values between the two organisations, noting that the partnership transcends standard branding exercises.

“South32 Cannington has been part of the Fire family for over a decade now, and this extension is a genuine reflection of what a values-aligned partnership looks like.”

“They don’t just put their name on the jersey — they show up for the communities we both care about,” Pascoe said.

As the club gears up for its upcoming title defence, the continued investment from South32 Cannington will support both the team’s professional operations and its extensive community footprint.

The club also confirmed that its 2026/27 membership campaign is set to launch in the immediate future, inviting fans to join the organisation as it embarks on another ambitious season on and off the court.

Richmond Football Club, MCC, and NSB Cyber Champion Accessibility at the MCG

Posted on July 8, 2026 by Courtney

The Richmond Football Club has announced a significant collaborative partnership with the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) and NSB Cyber to guarantee the continued operation of the Accessibility Gate at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for all remaining Richmond home games in 2026.

This initiative reaffirms the club’s commitment to fostering an inclusive match-day environment where every supporter, regardless of physical or sensory ability, can participate fully in the game-day experience.

The Accessibility Gate, located at Gate 3B, serves as a dedicated entry point engineered to alleviate common barriers to entry, such as long wait times and environmental stressors. By providing a streamlined, comfortable arrival process, the initiative ensures that supporters with accessibility needs—including those with hidden disabilities—can focus on the match rather than the logistical challenges of stadium entry.

Commenting on the collaborative nature of the project and the necessity of commercial support in maintaining such infrastructure, Richmond CEO, Shane Dunne, said: “We’re proud to partner with the MCC to deliver the Accessibility Gate and none of this would be possible without the help of NSB Cyber, who have come on board and we can make sure the gate is accessible for every game at the MCG for the rest of the season.”

For NSB Cyber, the partnership aligns with the company’s internal brand philosophy regarding safety and empowerment.

NSB Cyber’s head of brand and marketing, Catherine Porquier, explained the rationale behind their support, saying: “At NSB Cyber, we talk a lot about confidence, helping people feel safer, calmer and more in control. That is why this initiative has really resonated with us.”

The commitment to the Accessibility Gate is a vital component of Richmond’s broader inclusivity strategy. By removing physical and sensory barriers, the club aims to expand the accessibility of the sport, ensuring that the “Tiger Army” remains a welcoming and diverse community.

As the 2026 season progresses, the Gate 3B entry point will remain a permanent fixture for all Richmond MCG home fixtures, reflecting a growing industry trend of integrating accessibility requirements into the core business of sport.

Adelaide 36ers Secure Major Partnership Renewal with SKG Services

Posted on July 8, 2026 by Courtney

The Adelaide 36ers have announced a two-year extension of their major partnership with SKG Services.

This renewed agreement ensures that the national service provider will maintain its prominent brand presence within the club, continuing its role as the Official Coaches Partner and retaining its placement on the front of the 36ers’ away jerseys and select club apparel through to the conclusion of NBL27.

Since entering the partnership ahead of the NBL25 season, SKG Services has become a cornerstone of the club’s ecosystem. The extension highlights a maturing relationship built on mutual growth, with both organisations citing a shared commitment to community engagement and high-performance standards.

Commenting on the partnership, Adelaide 36ers CEO, Nic Barbato, said: “Since joining the Adelaide 36ers family, SKG Services has been an outstanding partner and a strong supporter of our vision for the future of the club.”

“As we continue to build momentum both on and off the court, partnerships like this play a critical role in helping us deliver for our members, fans and community,” Barbato stated.

SKG Services owner and managing director, George Manoussakis, reflected on the alignment between the two organisations.

“For SKG Services, this partnership is about more than brand presence, it is about continuing to support an organisation that shares our commitment to performance, community and long-term success,” Manoussakis said.

SKG Services, which is currently celebrating its 50th year of operations, has grown from a family-run business into a national powerhouse employing over 3,500 staff across Australia. By aligning with a high-profile sporting franchise like the 36ers, the company continues to bolster its brand visibility while leveraging the club’s extensive reach in the South Australian market.

FC Barcelona Announce the Launch of ‘Barça Play’

Posted on July 8, 2026 by Courtney

FC Barcelona has officially launched “Barça Play,” a new audiovisual hub integrated directly into the club’s website and revamped official application.

This initiative marks a significant evolution in the club’s digital transformation strategy, aiming to unify content, services, and fan benefits into a single, cohesive digital environment. The club seeks to foster a more direct, personalised, and continuous relationship with its global membership and fan base.

Barça Play serves as the cornerstone of a broader roadmap led by the club’s Barça Identity and Barça Media teams, working in tandem with the Technology Department. The platform’s audiovisual repository is extensive, featuring the club’s entire historical archive, original documentaries, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes “Inside Barça” programming.

In addition, the hub significantly expands the club’s live content capabilities, offering free access to pre-season fixtures, Barça Atlètic matches at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, Barça Legends games, and selected La Masia youth fixtures.

Emphasising the necessity of the project, director of Barça Identity & Barça Media 360, Paloma Mikadze, said: “With Barça Play, we didn’t want to create just another platform.”

“We wanted to build FC Barcelona’s new audiovisual hub, fully integrated into the website and official App so that members and fans can find and experience everything Barça in one place,” Mikadze stated.

Strategic prioritisation of the club’s membership base remains at the core of this rollout. Members are the primary beneficiaries of the initial launch phase, receiving exclusive early access and complimentary use of the platform. This focus is supported by strong growth metrics, with the official FC Barcelona App currently recording over 800,000 unique weekly users—a 30% increase over the previous year.

Looking forward, the platform is designed to evolve from an audiovisual service into a comprehensive all-in-one digital hub. The club’s implementation roadmap includes the future integration of ticketing services and e-commerce functionalities, aiming to streamline the entire “Culer” experience.

Furthermore, the platform introduces “TOP BARÇA,” an always-on, 24-hour linear channel designed to keep fans engaged with continuous programming, ranging from classic match replays to real-time analysis surrounding first-team fixtures.

Formula 1® announces global publishing partnership with DK Books

Posted on July 8, 2026 by Courtney

Formula 1® has officially announced a multi-year partnership with renowned illustrated publisher DK Books, a move designed to expand the sport’s commercial footprint through a new collection of officially licensed titles.

Commencing in November 2026, the programme will feature a diverse array of gift, activity, and educational publications intended to engage the sport’s massive global audience of over 830 million fans.

This collaboration marks a concerted effort by Formula 1 to leverage its recent surge in popularity, particularly among younger demographics and a diversifying fan base. By transitioning from purely digital and track-side experiences to tangible, long-form content, the organisation aims to solidify its cultural influence. The initial launch phase will focus on family-oriented and interactive material, with th e debut catalogue featuring The Official F1 Quiz Book, The Official F1 Activity Book, and The Official F1 Colouring Book.

Commenting on the partnership, chief commercial officer of Formula 1, Emily Prazer, said: “As Formula 1’s global fanbase continues to grow and diversify, storytelling plays an increasingly important role in how fans connect with our sport.”

“Our partnership with DK allows us to reach new audiences around the world by delivering high-quality, accessible books, while creating a new and creative avenue to deepen engagement with fans of all ages,” Prazer stated.

The rationale for the deal is underpinned by F1’s demographic shifts, with the sport’s leadership increasingly focused on maintaining momentum in key markets where younger and female fan engagement is accelerating.

Expressing confidence in the long-term potential of the partnership, managing director of DK, Mark Searle, added: “Everyone at DK is so excited to be working with Formula 1 on this brilliant range of books over the coming years.”

“F1 is one of the biggest sports brands in the world and growing at an astonishingly fast pace—this feels like the perfect time to launch this range which will excite and delight fans new and old,” Searle noted.

Southern Cross Media Group Appoints Chris Jones as Director of Sport

Posted on July 8, 2026 by Courtney

Southern Cross Media Group has officially announced the appointment of Chris Jones to the newly created role of Director of Sport – TV, Audio and Streaming.

Effective immediately, this appointment marks a significant move to unify the sports portfolios of Seven and Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), with Jones tasked with leading the group’s overarching sports strategy across broadcast, digital, publishing, and social platforms.

In his new capacity, Jones will spearhead sports rights negotiations for the combined entity, with the objective of securing cross-platform deals that maximise commercial value. By integrating the assets of 7SPORT with the audio powerhouses of Triple M and LiSTNR, the organisation aims to establish a dominant competitive advantage within the Australian media landscape.

Expressing his commitment to this integrated approach, Chris Jones, said: “It’s a privilege to lead this merged team of some of the country’s most talented on and off-air broadcasters.”

“Working closely with Ewan Giles and the SCA sport team, we now have an incredible opportunity to capitalise on our strengths, allowing us to share talent, resources, and ideas seamlessly while protecting what makes each brand distinctive.

“Bringing our sports offering together marks a major evolution in content consumption. By elevating digital and social media alongside traditional TV and audio broadcasts, we will capture fans who engage with content far beyond our traditional assets.

“Sport audiences want great coverage whenever and however they consume it.

“By bringing together 7SPORT, Triple M and LiSTNR sport, we are building Australia’s most complete sports media operation, delivering engaging content wherever you are, throughout the whole day,” he noted.

Praising Jones’ deep industry experience and his ability to bridge the gap between television and audio platforms, Managing Director – TV and Streaming, Angus Ross, added: “Seven and SCA’s dominance in sport is unmatched, and bringing both businesses together has provided a massive opportunity to maximise our footprint across broadcast and audio.”

“Chris has an incredible track record with Seven and the broader sporting industry. He has live sport in his DNA and has spent over 20 years delivering every major sporting code across the country,” Ross said.

The appointment is part of a broader strategy to leverage the company’s diverse media slate—including 7NEWS, Sunrise, and various entertainment products—to engage audiences across every market in Australia.

Manly Sea Eagles Sports Business Academy Launches Elite Personal Trainer Program

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Manly Sea Eagles Sports Business Academy has officially announced the launch of its Elite Personal Trainer Program, a premium education initiative delivered in partnership with the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers (AIPT).

This full-time program offers aspiring fitness professionals a unique pathway to gain nationally recognised qualifications while working directly within the environment of a professional NRL club.

Designed to bridge the gap between theoretical fitness education and the rigours of elite sports performance, the course comprises the Certificate III in Fitness (SIS30321) and Certificate IV in Fitness (SIS40221).

Participants will benefit from an immersive, face-to-face learning model based at the Sea Eagles’ high-performance facilities, where they will train alongside professionals and engage in regular practical coaching sessions.

Beyond the core curriculum, the program distinguishes itself through exclusive Masterclasses led by industry experts. These sessions will cover specialised topics including high-performance culture, strength and conditioning, injury rehabilitation, and athlete development.

Emphasising that the program’s value extends far beyond traditional certification, Sea Eagles head of education & foundation, Tim Gee, said: “We’ve created a unique learning experience that allows aspiring Personal Trainers to immerse themselves in the culture, professionalism and environment of the club while developing the practical skills and confidence needed to thrive in the fitness industry.”

The inaugural intake is scheduled for September 2026, with the academy limiting enrolment to just 22 students to maintain a personalised training environment. The program is specifically targeted at school leavers, dedicated fitness enthusiasts, and career-changers eager to transition into the health and fitness sector.

By leveraging AIPT’s 25 years of experience in vocational training, the Sea Eagles aim to prepare graduates for high-level roles in personal training, coaching, and sports science.

Applications for the September intake are now open, with the academy inviting prospective students to register for upcoming information sessions to explore the curriculum and facility access in greater detail.

Gold Coast Titans Bring ‘Blade’s Buddies’ Junior Clinic to Burleigh

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Gold Coast Titans are set to host the final school holiday clinic of the 2026 season tomorrow, Wednesday, July 8, at the Burleigh Bears Junior Rugby League Football Club.

Following a successful turnout of over 100 participants at the recent Parkwood clinic, the organisation is extending its grassroots engagement program to the Burleigh community to foster the development of aspiring rugby league talent.

The clinic is specifically designed to accommodate boys and girls aged between 5 and 13 across all skill levels, providing a structured environment for young players to refine their skills under the guidance of club representatives.

Participation in the event is facilitated through the “Blade’s Buddies” membership, which is priced at $59. In addition to entry for the clinic, the membership package includes a comprehensive merchandise set featuring a branded hat, a Steeden football, and a boot bag.

The schedule for the afternoon is as follows: Registration is set to open at 12:40 pm, followed by the main clinic activities from 1:10 pm to 3:30 pm, which will include an afternoon tea break for participants. The day will conclude with a player signing session starting at 3:30 pm, offering children the opportunity to engage directly with the club’s representatives.

With spots strictly limited and this event serving as the final opportunity for the 2026 school holiday period, the Titans are encouraging parents to secure their children’s places promptly.

The program continues the club’s ongoing effort to strengthen its ties with local junior rugby league associations and promote active participation in the sport throughout the Gold Coast region.

Brisbane Broncos Unveil Indigenous Round Jersey Designed by Student Artist

Posted on July 7, 2026 by Courtney

The Brisbane Broncos have officially unveiled their 2026 Indigenous Round jersey, a historic moment for the club during NAIDOC Week.

In a first for the organisation, the design was created by Ladda Kaewhanam, a 17-year-old student and participant in the club’s “Beyond the Broncos” Indigenous mentoring program.

A proud Whadjuk Noongar and Wangkathaa young woman, Ladda’s artwork was refined in collaboration with Quandamooka artist Casey Coolwell-Fisher to produce the final kit.

Titled “One Journey to The Other,” the design serves as a powerful narrative of connection between people, generations, and cultures across the Australian landscape.

The artwork draws inspiration from Ladda’s personal experiences, emphasising the fundamental importance of family, identity, and the transformative power of education.

The jersey will be worn by both the Broncos’ NRL and NRLW teams during their upcoming Indigenous Round fixtures, including high-stakes NRL clashes against the Dolphins on 8 August and the Warriors on 15 August at Suncorp Stadium.

Lauding the initiative, Brisbane Broncos CEO, Dave Donaghy, highlighted the club’s deep-rooted commitment to supporting Indigenous communities through the “Beyond the Broncos” program, which has assisted over 7,000 students across Queensland and northern New South Wales since 2015.

“We’re incredibly proud to launch this year’s Indigenous Round jersey during such an important week.”

“NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate the rich history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and for us, a longstanding connection to Indigenous players and communities.

“To have Ladda become the first Beyond the Broncos student to design our Indigenous Round jersey is a remarkable achievement and a testament to her talent and creativity but also the opportunities the Beyond the Broncos program helps create,” Donaghy stated.

For Ladda Kaewhanam, the opportunity represents a significant milestone in her creative journey.

“Designing this jersey has been an incredible honour, and being part of the Broncos family is so special.”

“My artwork is about the journeys we take throughout our lives, the people who guide us, and the connections we have to our families, our communities and our culture.

“I hope everyone who wears the jersey feels proud of the story it tells,” Ladda said.

The launch campaign features the new design alongside Broncos stars including Ezra Mam, Kotoni Staggs, Gehamat Shibasaki, Romy Teitzel, and Georgia Barlett, further solidifying the jersey’s significance as a symbol of both sporting excellence and cultural pride.