MEET OUR AFL SPORTS READY SPORTS TRAINEE - Michailey Barton-Smith

‍“I love working with kids, and I love sport – so this traineeship seemed like a great transition from being a student to working in the ‘real world’.”

As our 2025 Sports Trainee, Michailey works closely with our Sports Coordinator, Mrs Morris, and our PE teachers—supporting the staff and students throughout training sessions, inter-school competitions, and PE classes.

“I organise all the sports competitions and training sessions and travel all over Melbourne to attend inter-school events. I love being part of the teaching environment, engaging with the students, and motivating them to try out for sports, even if they feel unsure or nervous. It’s also been nice to see students I was friends with, in Year 12, go through their own Year 12 journey and have them come to me when they need help.”

Michailey says the Sports Traineeship has enabled her to develop new skills and her understanding of others.

“I have taken on more responsibility in this role, such as supervising students and leading activities, which has developed my leadership and mentoring skills. It has also been great to work with students from diverse backgrounds and gain a deeper understanding of other’s perspectives.”

Moving so quickly from being a student to a staff member may seem nerve-wracking but Michailey says she has received a lot of support, and it didn’t take long to adjust.

“All of the PE staff have been extremely welcoming and supportive. Initially, I was a bit nervous about work-life balance, as I train as a gymnast four nights a week, but Amanda has been so understanding, helping me manage both. I miss being a student sometimes, but I love being a staff member more!”

Michailey studied Psychology, Business Management, Legal Studies, Media, English and RE in Year 12. Her goal of becoming a Sports Physiotherapist stems from her journey with competitive gymnastics and her desire to make a difference for others.

“I have had a handful of injuries through gymnastics over the years, and my sports physio has been my saving grace. I would like to give upcoming gymnasts and athletes the same support that I have received during those periods of injury.”

Applications for our 2026 Sports Trainee will open later this year.

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