At Sports College SA, we love seeing the many different pathways our students pursue after graduation. For Zack Wheatland, a member of the Class of 2024, that pathway has continued to be shaped by his passion for sport, personal growth and a commitment to building his future through new experiences.
Since graduating, Zack has balanced work and study while continuing to develop his knowledge and experience within the sports industry. He is currently completing a Diploma of Sport Management through the Adelaide Football Club while working in distribution with Dyers Distribution through Coca-Cola.
Zack has also remained connected to sport through his studies and continues to play football with the Brighton Bombers Football Club, keeping the connection to the sporting environment that has been such an important part of his journey.
Since leaving SCSA, Zack has embraced opportunities to build skills across different industries. He spent time working at Drakes, where he developed his communication, teamwork and customer service skills, before beginning his Diploma of Sport Management and moving into his current role.
Reflecting on his journey, Zack believes his time at SCSA helped develop the mindset and skills that continue to guide him today.
“SCSA helped shape who I am today by teaching me discipline, confidence and the importance of hard work and communication,” he says. “The environment pushed me to grow both personally and professionally, and it gave me the motivation to pursue opportunities in sport and build a strong work ethic that I still use today.”
When asked about his favourite memories from SCSA, Zack reflects on the people and experiences that made his time at the College memorable.
“My favourite memories from SCSA were being involved in sport alongside friends and the strong sense of community around the school,” he says. “The experiences, competitions and relationships I built there are something I’ll always remember.”
Looking back, Zack says the biggest lesson he took away from SCSA was the importance of consistency and resilience.
“It taught me how important it is to stay committed to your goals, work well with others and always keep improving yourself both on and off the field,” he says.
Since graduating, Zack is most proud of his ability to balance multiple commitments while continuing to work towards his future goals.
“I’m proud of being able to balance both work and study while continuing to build experience for my future career,” he says. “Starting my Diploma of Sport Management and moving into a role with Coca-Cola through Dyers Distribution are both things I’m really proud of.”
His advice to current SCSA students is to embrace every opportunity and be willing to step outside their comfort zone.
“Take every opportunity you can and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone,” he says. “The habits and mindset you build at SCSA can really help you later on, so stay consistent, work hard and back yourself even if you’re not exactly sure where you want to end up yet.”
Looking ahead, Zack hopes to continue building experience within the sports industry while completing his Diploma of Sport Management. His goal is to continue developing professionally and personally as he works towards a long-term career in sport.
Zack’s journey is a reminder that success is built through consistency, effort and a willingness to keep learning. By combining his passion for sport with a strong work ethic, he is creating a pathway that reflects his goals and ambitions.