Ruby's Story
Ruby was a disengaged Year 10 student in Western Sydney, gradually losing sight of what life beyond school could look like. Teachers could see she was at a crossroads and believed that with the right support and intention, completing Year 12 would still be possible. She was recommended to a Creating Chances class, completing the Champions and Coach program in Year 10. Her 20-week attendance sparked a curiosity in the role sport could play in her life, prompting her to successfully apply for a School-based Traineeship with Creating Chances at the end of year 10.
At this time COVID hit, and schools were largely from home. Adapting, Creating Chances launched an online Future Pathways forum, welcoming former Matilda and Football Director Catherine Cannuli to join a panel discussion. When lockdowns ended, and Inspired by Catherine’s story and connection, Ruby was encouraged to take on a football coaching role with U10 girls at SD Raiders, and combined her evening and weekend coaching with weekly Creating Chances workshop facilitation and Year 12 studies. The network of support, feedback and skills prompted Ruby to apply to study Sports at Western Sydney University, where she is currently in her second year and remains committed to her coaching and facilitation practice.
“I was a pretty disengaged Year 10 student - gradually losing sight of what life beyond school could look like. Creating Chances gave me the confidence to say yes to opportunities, and the skills to sustain and grow my coaching skills. I have recently completed my Football Australia C Diploma whilst continuing my studies at Western Sydney University and working as a Creating Chances facilitator.”
Meet Our Trainees
