End of the road for Sports Knowledge Australia

Sport Knowledge Australia (SKA), set up with the aim of becoming Australia's first international centre of excellence in sports science and management, has ceased operations.

A University of Sydney spokesperson told Australasian Leisure Management that SKA closed "as the Commonwealth funding had expired and the Board saw little prospect for financial viability in the stringent financial climate."

Established in January 2005, through an $8.7 million grant from the Federal Government, SKA sought to position Australia internationally as a source of best practice sport knowledge through the delivery of high quality professional sport education products and a research program.
Initially based in Melbourne, SKA relocated to Sydney Olympic Park when ownership passed to the University of Sydney, University of Technology, Sydney and the Sydney Olympic Park Authority.

SKA sought to offer premium education products including intensive residential programs, seminars and modules delivered through a network of delivery partners. SKAâs products combined Australian and international academic talent with industry practitioners in the areas of sport management, venue management, event management and athletic performance.

Among its final projects, SKA was involved in delivering professional education to key managers and directors within the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Games Organising Committee in the areas of facility and event management. SKA also developed a national sports policy for the Maldives, including a strategy for events and competitions.

14th October 2008 - SPEED ON SPORT MANAGEMENT