News Archive

Whether you’re keen to give the 5km run a go, try croquet for the first time or hit the hard spikes in volleyball, Pia Chaffey, UWA Sport’s Programs Coordinator says there’s something for everyone at UWA’s annual Staff Sports Day.

And Pia should know as she’s in charge of coordinating the activities and fixtures for the day which is on Friday 10 November.

“We’re following the same structure as last year but hopefully it’ll be even bigger with more fields for soccer and volleyball and extra activities to take part in.

“It’s a big undertaking but I really enjoy the challenge of working through the logistics of large events and it’s a great reward to see everyone enjoying the day,” Pia says.

With a degree in sports science and exercise health and an honours degree in exercise physio (both from UWA) under her belt, Pia is a qualified strength and conditioning coach, with an in-depth knowledge of the science side of sport.

However when a Graduate Officer opportunity arose with UWA Sport, Pia jumped at the chance to upskill on the business side.

“It’s great to see first-hand how sport works in the real world – how it runs as a business.

“During my time as a student at UWA I had a lot to do with UWA Sport through my participation in University Games and inter-faculty sport, so there was a strong tie. It was an opportunity I hadn’t planned for but one I couldn’t pass up.

“I think the graduate program works really well because we bring a student perspective to the business which may otherwise be overlooked,” she says.

While a Grad Officer, Pia applied for the Programs Coordinator role and is now three weeks into her new position.

“Coordinating inter-college sport, the kid’s holiday programs and Staff Sports Day are my three key responsibilities.

“We’ve just finished the last school holiday program for the year and it’s a great one to be involved in. We get around 100 kids a day coming to campus so you can imagine what needs to be organised behind the scenes to keep that many little minds busy,” she says.

With that completed, Pia’s attention has shifted to Sports Day.

“Sports Day is a great opportunity to take some time out from your desk and get some activity into your day while making connections with colleagues from around the campus.

“We received really positive feedback about last year’s event so I hope more people come down this year and participate in what will be a really fun day,” she says.

Register for Staff Sports Day before 1 November to ensure your place.