Note: Applications for student placements in 2009 are are now open. Please see the application form and details at the end of this page.
Placement Overview VIS Sport Science and Physical Preparation offers one-year student placements to undergraduate and postgraduate university students. These placements are for a minimum of 10 hours per week. Placements are unpaid.
This is an exciting opportunity for prospective scientists to gain valuable practical experience in preparing elite athletes and working alongside some of Australia 's leading applied sport scientists.
Student placements begin in November each year.
Please note, apart from the sport science placements, there is also a student placement available with the VIS Physical Preparation Department. Applications can be lodged on via this page for the physical preparation position. You must, however, clearly stipulate in your that you are interested in the 'Physical Preparation' Placement in the 'area of interest' box below, otherwise you will be considered for the sport science placement. Please note that applications will not be considered for both placements.
To apply, please fill out the electronic application form below. Applications close in November each year.
Sport Science Student Placement Summary This placement will be located in the VIS Sport Science Department. The student will be directly supervised by a VIS Sport Science staff member to deliver general and specialised sport science services to VIS athletes.
Remuneration
Nil
Position Description
1. Summary of the broad purpose of the position and its responsibilities/duties
This placement will be located in the VIS Sport Science Department. The student will be directly supervised by a VIS Sport Science staff member to deliver general and specialised sport science services to VIS athletes. The placement will be for 12 months. Students are requested to contribute at least 10 hours per week.
2. Reporting/Working Relationships
Responsible to the Sport Science Co-ordinator, VIS, and liaising to other VIS sport scientists, coaches and athletes.
3. Special Conditions
Frequent out of hours work is required. Travel is also required. This position is not paid. Students currently enrolled in university degrees must complete this placement as a fieldwork opportunity. Personal liability insurance must be taken out for successful applicants in order to complete the placement.
4. Statement of Key Responsibilities/Duties
Students will either be assigned to a particular sport or assigned to various projects in general sport science. Student placements can assist with a number of initiatives in any of the following specialist areas of VIS Sport Science:
Sports Physiology
Laboratory and Field-based physiological fitness assessment
Strategies to accelerate recovery and regeneration after training and competition
Practical strategies for beating the heat and humidity during summer
Hydration monitoring and formulation of tailored hydration strategies
Health and wellness monitoring during heavy training and major competitions
Advice on supplementation during exercise performance
Close monitoring of training loads through physiological monitoring of athletes
Talent identification strategies, advice and support for your sport
Sports Biomechanics
Technique analysis (both qualitative and quantitative) using simple laptop-based software products during training and competition
Analysis of technique via remote access through web-based software
Performance Analysis
Match or notational analysis using various software products specifically tailored to your sport
Race profiling for changes in speed, efficiency, work output, fatigue and physiological markers
Statistical analysis and feedback during and after competition
Coach and Athlete Education
Regular journal club involving scientists and coaches discussing current issues in sport sciences
Regular publications on all aspects of sport science through newsletters and articles
Access to an internal website featuring the latest sport science developments occurring within VIS sport science and programs, test protocols and operational procedures
Access to an extensive article database containing the latest information on sport science and information pertaining to enhancing and optimising performance.
Applied Research
Design and implementation of applied research in all disciplines of sport science
Scientists use applied research to guide coaches and athletes on future strategies for athlete preparation
Access to an internal website featuring the latest sport science developments occurring within VIS sport science and programs, test protocols and operational procedures
Access to an extensive article database containing the latest information on sport science and information pertaining to enhancing and optimising performance.
To ensure their own safety and the safety of others, employees must work in a safe manner and comply with all VIS policies and procedures that relate to Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare.
Application Details
5. Who is eligible?
Student placements are available to undergraduate or postgraduate students studying Human Movement or an equivalent degree with an interest in providing high quality support for VIS athletes.
Applicants with other related degrees such as Sports Engineering and Computer Science, for example, may also be considered.
Applicants must hold a current driver licence to be eligible for the placement.
Physical Preparation Student Placement
VIS Physical Preparation offers 12 month placements for final year undergraduate and post graduate students. Students are invited to spend a minimum 10 hours per week within the Physical preparation department, learning from our coaches and gaining valuable hands on experience in all facets of elite athlete preparation. Student placements begin in February, finishing in January of the following year. Applications are sought in December each year. All positions are unpaid, although professional development opportunities are covered by the VIS Physical Preparation department. The trainees will be supervised by VIS Physical Preparation coaches and the program located at the VIS Gymnasium.
Program Aim:
To provide a learning environment that is a unique mix of theory and practical experiences, utilising the expertise, knowledge and experience of VIS PP coaches
Program Objectives:
- Provide an opportunity for students to learn from VIS PP coaches - Provide trainees with opportunity to observe and gain valuable practical experience in the preparation of elite athletes - Exposure to other departments within the VIS network (Sports Science, Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy, Nutrition) - Involvement in VIS PP professional development opportunities - Provide learning opportunities to enhance understanding of athlete preparation as a career Application Details
Who is eligible?
Student placements are available to undergraduate or postgraduate students studying human movement or an equivalent degree with an interest in providing high quality support for VIS athletes. Student placements are NOT offered to high school students or applicants with VICFIT accreditation only.
Application Form
Applications for all 2009 student placements close at 5:00pm, Friday 28 November 2008. Interviews will be conducted during December 2008.
(Hint: write out an extensive description of your qualifications and practical experience in Microsoft word, then cut and paste the content into the boxes below. You may also wish to send a resume (Sports Science only) to Mr Steven Bannon at the VIS).
Note: Please indicate whether you are applying for a Sport Science or Physical Preparation placement.
