Ava (left) and her guest Baylee enjoy behind-the-scenes experience on match day at Optus Stadium, thanks to ECU partners - West Coast Eagles.
Thanks to a unique partnership between Edith Cowan University (ECU) and the West Coast Eagles, Ava and her guest Baylee were treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience on game day. Their all-access pass included a guided tour of the Stadium's cutting-edge media centre and production suite, front-row access to the boundary line during pre-game warm-ups, and a rare glimpse inside the club changerooms as final preparations unfolded.
The day was capped off with refreshments in the Sky View Lounge and premium seats to enjoy the match in style.
Ava earned this opportunity by winning a student competition, where she created a dynamic 60-second "walk and talk" video for mobile and social media featuring AFLW defender Charlie Thomas. Her creative content impressed the judges and showcased her potential as a future media professional.
This opportunity is a great example of ECU's practical placement learning providing students with hands on learning in the real world.
This immersive experience gave Ava real-world insights into sports broadcasting and helped her build valuable industry connections—an unforgettable step in her journey from student to storyteller.
"Experiencing the behind-the-scenes operations with the Eagles was an amazing opportunity that will stick with me forever. It was incredible to see how much goes on behind the scenes and even more amazing to watch it happen live," Ava explained.
"A highlight was being in the Fox Footy commentary box and watching the commentators call the game in real time. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the energy they bring to each match, it is a surreal feeling that I can't even explain.
"Studying journalism and broadcast media at ECU has been an exciting and rewarding journey so far. The lecturers bring industry knowledge to each class and give me constant feedback which makes learning feel practical and exciting. I have really enjoyed the hands-on experience that ECU has provided, and I am appreciative that the work we do has given me a taste of what it is like to work in the media industry."
Ava hopes to one day work in television as a reporter or presenter, ideally within the sports or entertainment industry. A dream that may not be impossible thanks to ECU.
Explore more information at ECU Journalism and Broadcast Media.
