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Ipswich Regional Sports Academy Launched to Support Aspiring Athletes

 
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By Ms Melissa Peters
Marketing and Events Officer

The newly established Ipswich Regional Sports Academy (IRSA) is set to revolutionise the development of young athletes across the Ipswich Region. A collaboration between Bremer State High School and the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), IRSA provides a dedicated sporting pathway for primary and secondary students striving for athletic excellence.

Unlike traditional sporting academies, IRSA takes a holistic approach to athlete development, catering to all sports—both individual and team-based. The academy prioritises the individual needs of each athlete, tailoring programs that best support their physical, academic, and personal growth. Located within the rapidly growing Ipswich region, IRSA is committed to fostering the next generation of sporting talent.

Aligning with the 'Foundation' and 'Talent' phases of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) FTEM framework, IRSA offers a structured and supportive pathway for students who are competing at, or have the potential to compete at, regional, state, or national levels.

IRSA Director of Athletic Development, Mr Jack Pope, emphasised the academy's unique approach: “The most significant element IRSA provides Ipswich students is personalised and consistent case management. Student athletes have a qualified and experienced coach or mentor monitoring their physical and academic commitments, ensuring their wellbeing and maintaining a productive balance between sport and the classroom."

Through its partnership with UniSQ, IRSA provides student athletes with access to high-quality strength and conditioning equipment, elite training facilities, and pre-tertiary courses, offering invaluable academic and sporting opportunities.

UniSQ Professor Stephen Bird (Director of Sport, School of Health & Medical Sciences) shared his enthusiasm for the program: “We are thrilled to be working with some of the finest young athletic talents from across Ipswich and to help shape the next generation of champions. With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games fast approaching, our high-performance sport initiative is focused on supporting student-athletes through our diverse education, research and engagement programs."

State MP Jennifer Howard also expressed her support for the initiative: “It's fantastic to see Bremer State High School and UniSQ partnering together to launch this great initiative. IRSA is the first of its kind in Queensland and will provide local student-athletes access to elite training and academic support to help them achieve sporting success at regional, state, and national levels. With the Brisbane Olympics now only 7 years away, IRSA may also give some of these young athletes a shot at representing Australia!"

With a commitment to long-term athlete development, IRSA ensures that student athletes receive meaningful support to enhance their sporting and academic journeys. By providing a structured and innovative approach, IRSA empowers young athletes to reach their full potential and continue their sporting pursuits beyond school.

For more information about IRSA, please view the Ipswich Regional Sports Academy webpage on the Bremer State High School website. 

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Last reviewed 03 February 2025
Last updated 03 February 2025