At Sports College SA, we love seeing the many different directions our students take after graduation. For Michael Haywood, a member of the Class of 2023, that journey has led him into the civil construction industry, working across South Australia and building a career he never expected to pursue.

Today, Michael works away from home as a Trade Assistant in civil construction, with projects taking him everywhere from Mount Gambier to Whyalla. The role has opened the door to new experiences and opportunities, challenging him to step outside his comfort zone and back himself in unfamiliar situations.

Reflecting on his time at SCSA, Michael credits the College with giving him the confidence to take that leap.

“It gave me the initiative to try something outside my comfort zone,” he says. “Doing construction work wasn’t something I had pictured for myself, but it’s shown me what I’m capable of and pushed me to grow.”

Although football remains something Michael misses, he laughs that if he had the chance, he’d “bring it back.”

Some of Michael’s favourite memories from SCSA weren’t just about sport, but the people who shared the journey alongside him. He remembers the freedom of learning, the friendships formed and the moments that made every day memorable.

“The times I spent with my friends, the freedom of learning and making lifelong friendships,” he recalls, are what stand out most. Those connections have continued long after graduation, with many of the friendships he formed at SCSA remaining an important part of his life today.

Michael is also proud to have been the first person in his family to graduate, an achievement that holds special significance and reflects the determination he brought to his schooling.

Looking ahead, Michael hopes to begin a high-voltage apprenticeship in the coming year, continuing to build his skills and establish himself within the industry.

His advice to current students is simple: “Take it on. You look back and miss it. I only graduated three years ago and would go back in a heartbeat.”

As for one final message to those who shared the journey with him, Michael leaves us with a familiar sign-off from a fellow 2023 graduate:

“Go woodchucks.” – Xavier Wagner, Class of 2023.