National Careers Week is an opportunity to highlight the dedication of our athletes, past and present, in pursuing career aspirations both on and off the court.

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After a successful career representing Australia, Commonwealth Games gold medallist Kasey Brown reflects on how completing her Bachelor of Science with a major in Psychology helped keep her grounded while competing on the world tour.

After retiring from sport in 2014, Kasey completed a Master of Teaching before being offered a scholarship to undertake a postgraduate diploma in School Psychology. She now works as a psychologist across a number of schools and has recently returned to sport to mentor young players through coaching.

“There are many benefits athletes can gain by studying while they compete,” Brown said.

“It can create balance in their lives, and research has shown that taking a holistic approach can even give athletes a performance boost.”

Throughout her career, Kasey found that sport and education complemented each other with both requiring dedication, focus, and the ability to set and achieve goals.

“Studying can help athletes cope with adversity, protect against poor mental health and burnout, and maintain perspective,” she said.

She has also embraced opportunities to teach and volunteer in remote Aboriginal communities, fuelling her passion for serving others.

“I had an opportunity to engage in multi-sport, youth engagement programs delivered on country in the NPY and NG lands in Central Australia. During my time in different communities, I gained knowledge about Indigenous culture, about how life is in a remote community, about the different communities, the history and the people,” she said.

“It is a two-way learning experience and I gained a deeper appreciation of Aboriginal cultures. I believe every act of volunteering, no matter how small, contributes to creating a more compassionate, resilient, and harmonious society.”

Brown’s return to squash has left her inspired by Squash Australia’s approach to player development and her new involvement with the next generation.

“It has been fantastic to see our past champions coaching the up-and-coming Australian players. I feel it’s important to give back to the sport and have a positive influence on the lives of young people,” she said.