Taking a jump shot at his dreams

With his eye firmly on the goal since high school, Daniel Sladecek has ended up in his dream course. Thanks to VU Guaranteed, our pathway options, and his lifelong love of sport, he is now completing a Bachelor of Sport Science (Human Movement)/Bachelor of Sports Management.

Daniel spoke to us about the practical nature of his bachelor degree, his immersion in basketball, and placements that filled him with confidence as well as hands-on experience.

“I’ve been playing basketball since I was six. The thing I like about it is the competitive nature of the sport and the connections you can make through it.

“Out of high school, I wanted to do a Bachelor of Sports Management, but I didn’t get in with my ATAR score. Instead, I enrolled and completed a Diploma of Sports Development (no longer offered at VU Polytechnic) thanks to VU Early Entry (previously known as VU Guaranteed).

“I used the diploma as a bridging course – now, because of the credits I earned, I am currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Sport Science (Human Movement)/Bachelor of Sports Management.”

A learning model & surroundings to enjoy

“With the VU Block Model I find I can plan my week better, and have more time to do other things I need to do, like work.

“I love that the Footscray Park Campus is easily accessible, and it’s very green compared to other unis as well.“

Hands-on knowledge for the real world

My course is very practical. The things I learn in class, I take that knowledge on and use it in the real world.

“Having teachers that have experience in their respected areas and being able to learn from them has been great.”

Placements that throw you into the game

“My first, 70-hour, placement for my current course was with the Melbourne Tigers, as a Game Day Assistant for the 2022 NBL1 and Big V seasons. I was responsible for the stadium set up and was the Game Court Announcer.

“Being behind the mic gave me a large boost of confidence over time as I am an introvert. Over the length of the season, it gave me greater confidence as I had to adapt to different scenarios.

“Completing this placement also helped me with generating professional relationships and time management.

“My current placement is at Wyndham Basketball Association – my role is to help out the Domestic Competition Manager and support new programs and events.

“I have been able to expand and strengthen my new connections as I play, coach and referee in the organisation.”

Shooting for future goals

“I’m currently searching for entry-level jobs in the basketball industry, which is a very widespread community.

"Both of my placements have given me connections outside the sport and I can use them to potentially get jobs in other sectors too.

“I would 100% recommend VU.”