The Gold Coast Titans are proud to announce the launch of Pathway to Play, a world first eLearning course hosted on the Titans Teach Learning Management System (LMS).
This pioneering initiative is designed to empower local sports coaches and volunteers with the skills and knowledge needed to establish and enhance Leagueability programs, making rugby league even more accessible to people with disabilities across Queensland.
Empowering Coaches and Volunteers
The Pathway to Play course has been co-designed by the Gold Coast Titans and Playbk Sports, fusing the Titans' extensive experience with the Leagueability program and Playbk Sports expertise in creating online learning content for professional and national sporting organisations.
With a comprehensive curriculum that covers the fundamentals of inclusive coaching, appropriate governance and the principles of the Leagueability program, the course aims to equip participants with the tools necessary to create a supportive and engaging environment for all players at their local clubs.
Expert-Led Learning
One of the important features of the Pathway to Play course is its expert-led content. The course draws on the experience and knowledge of seasoned coaches, medical experts and Gold Coast Titans staff who have been integral to the Leagueability program since its inception in 2018. These experts bring a wealth of practical insights and real-world examples to the online learning product.
The course features appearances and contributions from notable figures such as Dr. Dinesh Palipana, a prominent advocate for disability rights and inclusion; former Gold Coast Titans captain Preston Campbell, a champion for Indigenous and disability sport; Gold Coast Titans NRLW captain Georgia Hale; and other Titans staff and Leagueability volunteers.
Supporting Leagueability Programs
The Leagueability program is designed to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in rugby league, promoting physical activity, social inclusion, and personal development.
Titans general manager of community and game development Renee Cohen highlighted the significance of this initiative.
"The launch of Pathway to Play marks a major milestone in our commitment to inclusivity and community engagement," she said.
"By empowering coaches and volunteers with the right skills, we are enabling more individuals with disabilities to experience the joy of rugby league.
"This course is a testament to our dedication to making rugby league a sport for everyone."
The Pathway to Play course is designed to be accessible to coaches and volunteers from all corners of Queensland, breaking down geographic barriers. Delivered online through the Titans Teach platform, the course allows participants to learn at their own pace, making it easier for busy volunteers to fit education into their schedules.
Playbk Sports co-founder and CEO Jon Shepherd expressed his enthusiasm for the project.
"At Playbk Sports, we believe in the power of education to transform communities," he said.
"Pathway to Play" is a fantastic example of how we can leverage technology to provide vital training to those who need it most.
"We're thrilled to partner with the Gold Coast Titans on this important initiative, and we're excited to see the positive impact it will have on communities across Queensland."
Community Impact
The impact of Pathway to Play is already being felt in local communities.
"The Pathway to Play course has been incredibly valuable for our volunteers and staff," QRL south west area manager Jackie Stephson said.
"It's given me the confidence and skills to better support our players with disabilities.
"The training is practical, engaging, and has made a real difference in how we can set up and run our Leagueability sessions and we can’t wait to welcome more players with disabilities and their families into our club."
As the Pathway to Play initiative grows, the Titans are optimistic about the future of Leagueability programs in Queensland and even Australia wide.
With more trained coaches and volunteers, more people with disabilities will experience the camaraderie, excitement, and physical benefits of rugby league.
eLearning Efficacy
To evaluate the impact of the Pathway to Play initiative and gather insights on participant engagement and outcomes, Griffith University will lead a research project on the LeagueAbility program.
The study will be spearheaded by renowned sports education expert, Associate Professor Popi Sotiriadou, in close collaboration with staff from Playbk Sports and the Gold Coast Titans.
For more information about the Pathway to Play course and to enrol, visit the Titans Teach platform here.
