CONFERENCE PROGRAM OUTLINE
Day 1: Wednesday 18th November
Interactive Workshop Series (State Basketball Centre, Wayville)
The conference begins with a whole-day, dedicated workshop series designed to provide hands-on learning & professional development. Whether you are a researcher, coach, sport administrator, or practitioner working in sport, these workshops will offer practical insights that can be immediately applied in your setting.
Workshop 1 - Coaching Pedagogy in Youth Sport
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Presented by Prof Shane Pill (Flinders University, AU) and A/Prof Simon Walters (Auckland University of Technology, NZ).
Workshop 2 - Prepare to Perform: Leveraging Neuromuscular Training (NMT) to Enhance Performance and Reduce Injury Risk in Youth Sport
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Presented by Dr Dylan Hicks (Flinders University, AU) and A/Prof Chris Whatman (Auckland University of Technology, NZ).
Workshop 3 - Beyond Participation: Officiating as a Youth Development Pathway
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Presented by Brooke Kneebush (Australian Sports Commission)
Workshop 4 - TBA
Pre-Conference BBQ (6-8 pm): Flinders University, Bedford Park
Join us on Wednesday evening for a free, relaxed rooftop BBQ and networking event at Flinders Bedford Park Campus. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow delegates and engage with leading researchers & practitioners before the main conference begins.
Day 2: Thursday 19th November
Conference Opening Day (Flinders University, Bedford Park)
Day 2 marks the official commencement of the conference, featuring keynote presentations, research, and opportunities to engage with the latest developments in youth sport research and practice.
Keynote 1 - Professor Sean Cumming (Bio-Banding in Youth Sport)
Dr Sean Cumming (University of Bath, UK) will present on how bio-banding can create fairer, safer, and more developmentally appropriate sporting environments. He offers valuable insights for coaches, administrators, and policymakers seeking to enhance inclusion and retention across youth sport.
Keynote 2 - Lindsey Reece (Latest research developments from PlayWell)
Dr Lindsey Reece (Australian Sports Commission) will present the latest research developments from PlayWell and emerging insights from ASC-supported research. She offers a forward-facing perspective on how evidence and collaboration can drive meaningful change across the Australian sports system.
Cocktail Reception: Scientific Posters and Rapid Communications (6-8 pm)
On Thursday evening, delegates are invited to attend the conference cocktail reception. This social event will showcase Scientific Posters and Rapid Communication presentations, providing an opportunity to network while exploring emerging research and innovative practice in youth sport.
Day 3: Friday 20th November
Final Conference Day (Flinders University, Bedford Park)
The final day of the conference continues with keynote and research presentations, while also highlights the importance of collaboration between industry and academia/research.
Keynote 3 - A/Prof Robert Townsend (Ableism in Coaching)
A/Prof Robert Townsend (University of Waikato) will explore how ableism manifests across coaching, leadership, and organisational systems. Blending critical theory with practical tools, he will challenge established structures and provide actionable strategies for creating more equitable and inclusive sporting environments.
Post-Conference Drinks: The Moseley Bar & Kitchen, Glenelg
Following the conclusion of the conference, delegates are invited to join us for an informal post-conference drink at The Moseley Bar & Kitchen in Glenelg. This is another great opportunity to continue conversations, strengthen connections, and celebrate a successful conference.