Next Innings

ACA, Cricket Australia Career Transition Program in conjunction with AFL SportsReady

The program has been implemented to provide opportunities and support for the mature player in the later stages of their Cricket careers to attain a meaningful and rewarding vocation after cricket.

The ACA, Cricket Australia in association with AFL SportsReady Limited, have implemented the program to enhance the post-cricket employment prospects of suitably qualified and/or career oriented current and recently retired elite cricket players. The number and frequency of hours worked per week and the total number of the work experience placement will be structured to accommodate the cricket obligations of the player. It is expected that the player should complete the equivalent of between 6 and 8 weeks full time in the workplace. A player currently on a state cricket an list will be available up to a maximum of 15 hours per week for their work experience placement. The participating players will be aligned with an Employer who is willing to provide work experience and training, in a field or discipline that reflects the requirements of the player.

For example, in Australian Rules football the "Next Goal" program recently retired West Coast Eagles veteran Ashley McIntosh completed the program in 6 weeks with McQuarrie Bank in stockbroking, whereas James McDonald (Melbourne) started the program in March 2003 and will complete his 30 day work placement possible in mid 2004 working as a commodity Trader with AWB.

Process of Application

1. Potential candidate for Career Transition Program (CTP)
2. AFL SportsReady Limited distributes CTP information pack including the grant criteria and application form and assists with any questions
3. Player applies to the State Welfare Manager by the due date
4. If application is unsuccessful - reason will be given why, and the player may re-apply in the next round and will be encouraged to attend a meeting with CD sports
5. If applicant successful - AFL SportsReady Limited will commence sourcing potential employers
6. Upon completion of the program, the ACA and Cricket Australia will receive a copy of the evaluation forms from the employer and a verbal report from AFL SportsReady Limited
7. Payment will be forwarded to AFL SportsReady Limited on behalf of the player after the placement close out meeting.
8. Note: It is desirable that the player has undergone a 'Careers Appraisal' with CD Sports in the last 12 months.

Click Here to download "The Next Innings" application form