PKF Proudly Sponsors Water Polo Australia's Professional Development Scholarship Program

PKF Sydney and Newcastle is thrilled to announce our second consecutive year of supporting the Professional Development (PD) Scholarship program. This program is aimed at benefiting current senior squad and National Age Group Program members, as well as senior squad members from the past two years.

Water Polo Australia (WPA) is currently accepting applications for this prestigious scholarship, aimed at benefiting current senior squad and National Age Group Program members, as well as senior squad members from the past two years.

The PD Scholarship program, proudly backed by PKF Sydney and Newcastle and WPA Alumnus Nicholas Falzon, seeks to provide athletes with professional development opportunities. These opportunities include pursuing university degrees, vocational courses, short courses or micro-credentials, virtual internships, registration or licensing, as well as covering expenses such as flights and accommodation to complete any of the above.

With a total funding pool of $10,000, the scholarship aims to support athletes in their journey towards formal training that will enhance their career prospects post-elite sports. Nicholas expresses his excitement about collaborating with WPA on this initiative, emphasising the program's potential to empower athletes beyond their athletic achievements,

Our aim is that the PD Scholarship program will help the athletes in completing formal training which will help in leveraging a career after elite sport. Nicholas reflects on the proud tradition of water polo athletes excelling both in and out of the pool, citing his own inspiration from top players who achieved success not only in sports but also in their studies and careers.

Last year's successful applicants, Matthew Brynes, Maddy Steere, and Lea Yanitsas OLY, are thankful for the support provided by PKF Sydney and Newcastle. Maddy Steere, who completed a digital media marketing course through the scholarship, acknowledges how it has “helped her take her business to the next level.”

Matthew Brynes highlights “the added financial support in paying for his Bachelor of Commerce Degree, enabled him to focus more on training and competing for the Australian Sharks.” He also emphasises the mentoring opportunity with Nicholas, describing it as a unique and invaluable aspect of the scholarship.

Reflecting on last year's caliber of applications, Nicholas is eager to see the diverse endeavours and talents that this year's applicants will bring. The application deadline for the PD Scholarship Program is December 22, 2023.

As PKF proudly sponsors the PD Scholarship Program, we encourage aspiring water polo athletes to seize this opportunity and apply for a chance to enhance their professional and academic journey. The program aligns with our commitment to supporting individuals in reaching their full potential, both in and out of the sporting arena. 

We look forward to another year of contributing to the success of the water polo community.