Designed for young women navigating the increasing demands of competitive sport, our Athlete Development Program (ADP) is more than a training support program. An initiative started in 2024, made possible by a very generous donation from Geoff Goldsmith, in honour of his mother and Old Scholar, Jill Goldsmith (Maxwell, 1952), the program focuses on nurturing the whole person, helping students balance their sporting ambitions with their mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. Through expert guidance, targeted education and personalised support, girls learn to make sustainable choices that enhance both their performance and their long‑term health.
A holistic approach to athlete development
The teenage years are formative, shaping identity, confidence, character and resilience. Recognising this, ADP places equal value on:
- Mental health and mindset
- Academic balance
- Self‑awareness and reflection
- Positive relationships and communication
- Physical development and recovery
- Sustainable habits for high performance
By empowering students with the tools and knowledge to navigate pressure, manage expectations and maintain wellbeing, the program prepares them not only for the demands of elite sport but for the challenges and opportunities of adult life. When we support the whole student, not just the athlete, we build young women who are grounded, capable and ready to thrive.
Learning from inspiring role models
During sessions this term, ADP students have had the opportunity to learn from an inspiring role model in women’s sport, with visits from AFLW West Coast Eagles co-captain Charlie Thomas.
Charlie discussed practical tips for students surrounding healthy habits and maintaining balance between sport, study and wellbeing.
Students were eager to hear Charlie’s advice, as her experience as a professional athlete offers real world insight into excelling while staying grounded, healthy and connected.
A program built for the long game
The Athlete Development Program is not about short‑term wins, it’s about equipping young women with the confidence, resilience and skills to become strong leaders both on and off the field.
Through expert coaching, wellbeing support, and experiences like Charlie’s visit, students learn to embrace challenges, strive for excellence and back themselves wholeheartedly, allowing them to succeed today and throughout adulthood.
