Melanie Crinion is the inaugural teacher at Learning With League Centre at Rugby League Central. As an established teacher and a former National Development Officer with Australian Rugby League Development, she was the perfect choice for the job.

Tell us about your current role as Learning With League Teacher at RLC?

MC: As the role is fairly new it’s still finding its feet. I have had quite a few groups come through the Learning With League Centre, taking part in a range of programs including Dream Believe Achieve, Eat Well Play Well Stay Well, Rugby League Reads and the latest primary school program focusing on literacy, teamwork, values and respect.

What would you like to achieve in your role?

MC: Overall, I would like each child who visits the Learning Centre to have a positive and memorable experience. Fan or not, I would like children to see that Rugby League can be a fun learning tool.

In the future, I would like specialised programs to be held in the Learning With League Centre. The level of negative social behaviour which girls are involved in has increased, so I could see a program which focuses on improving girls’ social skills, confidence and self-esteem being of real benefit.

Based on the success of the Dream Believe Achieve program, there is also the potential to assist the needs of young adolescents and provide them guidance in making realistic choices, post schooling.

MC: What program have you most enjoyed delivering?

MC: I enjoy all of the programs that I’ve been involved with in the Learning With League Centre, but I probably get most satisfaction from the Primary School program that is currently running in the classroom. It allows students the opportunity to learn about and experience different aspects of Rugby League - it teaches them that there is more to the game than just playing it.

Rugby League Reads magazines are a prime example of how children can appreciate and understand more about the game/players from a different perspective.

It’s exciting to be part of an organisation who sees the importance of education and continue to create resources/programs that incorporate the game of Rugby League with students’ learning.

What have you enjoyed most about working with children and RL?

MC: I enjoy being in a position to be able to create a unique learning experience for kids when they visit the Learning With League Centre.

I love seeing the expression on their faces when they first walk into the Learning With League Centre and the excitement they show throughout their experience.

Although some people may see the Rugby League world dominated by men there are many positions within the game that women hold. What advice would you give a girl / woman who wanted to work within Rugby League?

MC: Go for it! There are a variety of roles within the game that females can be a part of – accounting, physio, media and even teaching!

If you would like to find out more about the Learning With League Centre please contact Melanie on melaniec@nrl.com.au