- Spending 8 fantastic weeks in Oz
- Students not taking a full year-out
- Playing rugby for a local Aussie club
- Exploring Oz through organised activities
Sport Lived
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Rugby Union: Experience in Australia
Duration: 8 weeks
Overview
This is ideal if you’re not taking a gap year or have limited time to spare, our 8 Week Experience allows you to combine playing rugby in Oz with pre-planned travel activities. Don’t choose between rugby and adventure – have both!
Recommended for:
At a glance:
- Travel and explore with our activities
- Regular matches, training & social events
- Shared accommodation
- 24/7 mentor support throughout your stay
Sporting adventures
Our 8 week rugby experience allows you to have it all – play rugby, live with other participants and explore the wonders of Oz. You’ll play and train with a local rugby club, and make friends whilst getting a first-hand taste of Aussie sport.
You’ll live alongside other Sport Lived participants right in the centre of tropical Brisbane. You can explore the city with your new mates, and our range of activities guarantee a summer to remember.
FAQs
1. What type of visa do I need?
Australian Working Holiday Visa
If you would like to obtain paid work during your programme you will need to obtain an Australian Working Holiday Visa. UK citizens aged 18-30 are eligible for an Australian Working Holiday Visa which enables holders to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months. It costs around £150 and can take up to 4 weeks to process so we recommend getting the paperwork sorted well in advance of your departure.
Australian Tourist Visa
If you don’t want to work in Australia you can get an Australian Tourist Visa.
For more information see the Travel & Visa section in the Need to Know area of our site.
2. Do I need to be an elite player?
Absolutely not! We cater for players of all abilities. We will obtain further information on your sporting ability once you have submitted your booking form. This will allow us to match you with a suitable club.
3. How can I find out more general information?
Hopefully, most key pieces of information are available on the website where you can download programme notes, prices and dates. Our Need to Know section also contains lots of useful information. If you have other questions or just want to have a chat, we’re always available either on the phone or via email.
We know that planning a trip overseas can be scary at times and there’s loads to think about. So don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need to discuss anything at all.
Social life
Through your rugby club...
We have links with a wide range of fantastic Australian rugby clubs who’ll welcome you as a new member. Get ready for plenty of banter - the Aussies love to have a laugh with their new Pommey team mates!
With Sport Lived…
You’ll live alongside other Sport Lived participants who are playing and coaching a wide variety of sports. This provides a ready-made group of friends for you to get together with and explore life in Brisbane.
Playing rugby in Australia
We have links with a wide range of fantastic Australian rugby clubs who’ll welcome you as a new member. Get ready for plenty of banter - the Aussies love to have a laugh with their new Pommey team mates!
Club structure
Australian rugby clubs have lots of teams. You can expect:
- 5-7 senior men’s teams
- 2-3 women’s teams
- 3-4 Colts teams (U19 in Brisbane)
In addition, there are active junior sections.
Top teams play in the highest state leagues, giving you the chance to play and train alongside Super 14 and international players.
Matches and training
You’ll train 2-3 times a week with matches played at the weekends.
Most Sport Lived participants play Colts rugby in Australia. The Colts competition is very strong and taken seriously by clubs. Youngsters at Australian international level and Super 14 academy members all play First Grade Colts rugby so, if you’re an elite player, you’ll have the chance to compete at a very high level.
The senior and Colts sections also have lower level teams, so don’t panic if you’re not planning a career in rugby, our clubs cater for players of all abilities.
Additional gym and fitness sessions during the week are optional and your club might also offer a gym pass as a perk of membership.
Off the pitch
With so many members, your club will be a hive of social activity. There’ll be drinks after training and matches plus social events throughout the season - new players’ night, pub crawls and an end-of-season dinner. Some clubs also arrange pre-season tours - a great chance to get to know your teammates whilst exploring a new part of Oz.
Rugby development
Our clubs are selected for their high quality coaching and facilities, helping you to return home as a much-improved player. If your performances are noted, you could also find yourself selected for a State representative squad – highly prestigious!
…and finally
What are you waiting for? Get out there and show the Aussies how it’s done!
Reviews
Charlie Dagwell – Rugby 8 Week Experience Brisbane
What was the highlight of your Sport Lived experience?
It’s difficult to single out one highlight as there were so many! The rugby was amazing, the lads that I stayed with were also amazing and we had a class time! All the activities were awesome! The Tri Nations game was a main highlight, especially watching New Zealand!
Do you think your Sport Lived experience has changed you as a person? If so, how?
I think this experience has helped me become more self-dependent. I feel that I’m more mature and responsible as I had to make many of my own decisions. It also made me appreciate all the hard work my mum does at home! Keeping our place clean and tidy was probably the hardest part of the trip!
What tips would you give to future Sport Lived participants?
Make the most of your experience, 8 weeks sounds like a long time but it flies by! Anytime you get to do something different, grab it with both hands!
Why should someone choose Sport Lived?
They make it all very, very easy for you.
How have you improved as a player / coach?
I have definitely improved as a player. I also got to watch a lot of games and get a closer look at a different side to the game, the Aussie side, which I can learn from to improve my game!
…and finally, in a single sentence, I’m glad I went on a Sport Lived programme because
It helped develop me as a person , through sport and through gaining some close friends for life! LOVED IT!!!!
Your pad
- STANDARD ACCOMMODATION
- PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION
STANDARD ACCOMMODATION
Choose our Standard Accommodation in Australia and you’ll live in a dorm room in a hostel or lodge. All our Standard pads are centrally located and provide easy access to public transport. This makes it easier to get to your sports club, as well as giving you the chance to try out all the bars, clubs and restaurants in the city centre.
At a glance:
- Top quality hostel accommodation
- Located close to transport and nightlife
- Shared with Sport Lived participants
- Meet travellers from around the world
Your place in Australia...
You’ll share a dorm room with other Sport Lived participants. You’ll get fully equipped kitchen facilities, a base for your belongings and large comfortable communal areas, so you can catch up with other Sport Lived participants and travellers from around the world.
NB: Illustrative accommodation pictures.
PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION
Choose our Premium Accommodation in Australia and you’ll live in a 4 star apartment in the centre of town. Your club will be easily accessible by public transport and with lots of bars, clubs, restaurants and shops close by there are plenty of places explore.
Four star city centre apartmentsAt a glance:
- 4-star fully furnished apartments
- Located close to transport and nightlife
- Shared with Sport Lived participants
- Relax! Most bills are included
Home from home...
Apartments are shared with other Sport Lived participants and include a 24 hour reception plus many mod-cons. Apartments are fully furnished including a TV, linen, kitchen appliances, washing machines, etc. They are also serviced weekly so you can spend your time having fun.
NB: Illustrative accommodation pictures.
Activities
Our 8 Week Experience programmes include a number of organised trips and activities allowing you to combine rowing with some great adventures.
Specific activities vary slightly from year to year, but here’s an idea of the fun stuff you can expect.
Introductory drinks in the city
During the first week of your programme, we’ll arrange introductory drinks in the city for you and your fellow Sport Lived participants. Your mentor will co-ordinate arrangements and show you around local bars and nightspots to get your programme off to a flying start.
Tickets to a sporting match
Another taste of Aussie life is watching live sport. There are some unforgettable sporting spectacles during July and August and we’ll pick up tickets for a great event.
Maybe it’ll be a National Rugby League game at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium or an Aussie Rules match watching the Brisbane Lions in action at the famous Gabba.
Surfing lesson on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world as well as famous surf breaks. Just an hour from Brisbane, you’ll spend the day exploring the beaches, shops and attractions of Australia’s premier holiday destination.
You’ll also receive a surfing lesson from a qualified instructor with the aim of getting you up and riding!
Kayaking on the Brisbane River
You’ll paddle along the meandering Brisbane river with a guided adventure tour observing the city from a unique angle. Watch Brisbane’s most prominent landmarks glide while you keep cool in the river breeze.
Traditional Aussie BBQ
Only in Australia would you find the words ‘barbeque’ and ‘culture’ in the same phrase, but the barbeque is an intrinsic part of Australian culture. You’ll get a first hand taste of the quintessential Aussie experience.
We’ll organise the genuine article complete with ice cold local beer, some old school Aussie tunes and even a game of backyard cricket!
Day long bike ride
Brisbane is a very bike friendly city with loads of cycle tracks and suburbs to explore on two wheels. We’ll take you on a cycling tour of the city and surrounding regions stopping for lunch and refreshment breaks. A brilliant way to get to know the city and spend time with your fellow participants.
Gym membership
Throughout your stay in Brisbane you’ll have membership to a gym close to your accommodation. You’ll be able to stay in perfect shape, working out with your Sport Lived mates.
Tangalooma snorkelling day trip
You’ll spend a day exploring the underwater wonders of the Tangalooma shipwrecks, close to Moreton Island just off the Queensland coast. The experience of swimming amongst the wrecks with tropical fish literally within your grasp is exhilarating. You might even spot one of the dolphins or green turtles living in the area.
A week in the life...
...of Jake Ashall who played rugby in Brisbane.
Monday
Gym session in the morning focused on weights and strength training. Took the bus to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in the afternoon with the Sport Lived gang. Got to hold a koala which was pretty cool. Cardio session at the gym in the evening.
Tuesday
Gym session in the morning with light weights followed by a jog along the riverside. Relaxed by the pool in the afternoon and soaked up the sun (this time I remembered the sun cream!) Club training fitness in the evening focused on skills and tactics.
Wednesday
Went for a walk round the city with the Sport Lived crew. Took in the sights and chilled at the city centre beach South Bank. Tonight going out with a few lads from the club to the Down Under bar!!! Messy night.
Thursday
Recovering from last night but made it to the gym for a good work out. Chill-out time in the afternoon watching some Aussie TV and had a good lunch before training tonight. Club training in the evening, working on drills and moves for the match on Saturday.
Friday
Went for a jog along the riverside and relaxed by the pool. Later a few of the guys from Sport Lived head out to the Brisbane museum and modern art gallery for some culture. Out for dinner tonight then an early night ahead of the match tomorrow.
Saturday
Got up early and had a good breakfast to set me up for the match ahead. Played Brothers rugby club and won 50-7 – it was a good match. Out with the rugby lads and coaches after the game. Had fun chatting over a few beers.
Sunday
Going to South Bank with the Sport Lived gang today. Just planning to chill out, chuck a ball about and have a nice swim. We all head out for a nice dinner tonight before going to bed early ready for another week.
Australia
Sun, sea, sand and SPORT! Australia’s sporting prowess is as legendary as the Great Barrier Reef and a Sport Lived programme is your chance to experience both.
Australia highlights:
- Watch a magical sunrise over Ayers Rock
- Catch a cricket match at the MCG
- Dive the Great Barrier Reef
- Learn to surf at Bondi Beach
Choose your destination city...
Our programmes run to cities across Australia. Click on each city to learn more but be warned, choosing your destination is NOT an easy decision.
Sport Lived in Brisbane
Simon heads up the Sport Lived team in Brisbane and is a thoroughbred Queenslander. He’s travelled the world but made Brissy his home, so hear all about his favourite city.
The weather in Brisbane today is...
Your mentor recommends:
- Head to the Gold Coast for a surfing lesson
- Enjoy the city centre beach at South Bank
- Visit the city's riverfront bars & restaurants
- Check out Queensland's beautiful islands
Beautiful one day, perfect the next is the ideal way to describe sunny Queensland. Brisbane is located right at the heart of Queensland and is renowned for its laid-back lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere. It’s hard to go wrong with the tropical climate which leads to long balmy nights spent either on the beach or enjoying a cold drink with friends.
Situated on the magnificent Brisbane River the city is the place to be. It is well known for its bustling night life. Whether you want a couple of drinks in a traditional Australian pub, a night on the dance floor or anything in between, Brisbane has a night spot to suit. Brisbane is very popular among travellers and backpackers as the city is constantly thriving with life.
Brisbane also boasts two of Australia’s best sporting stadiums. The Gabba and Suncorp Stadium host matches of Rugby League, Cricket, Aussie Rules, A League Football, Rugby Union - basically every sport you could wish for!
The city is also just an hour's drive from the stunning Gold Coast, which is known internationally as a popular tourist destination, thanks to its white sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean. Maybe now is the time to take up the opportunity to learn how to surf; or travel up further north to the beautiful rainforests and spectacular waterfalls.
In summary, Brisbane is a fantastic city offering amazing experiences. Your time spent here will be remembered and treasured for life.
Sport Lived in Melbourne
Matt has been part of the Sport Lived team in Melbourne for the last few years. Although he was born in the US, he was raised in Melbourne and considers the city home, making him perfectly placed to tell you all about its attractions.
The weather in Melbourne today is...
Your mentor recommends:
- Catch the Boxing Day Test Match
- Take a trip along the Great Ocean Road
- Have a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens
- Check out South Yarra's shops and cafés
First things first. Whether it be playing professionally, socially with mates, coaching or simply watching on the telly, Melburnians LOVE sport. It doesn't matter where you are - the heart of the city, a country town, or in the suburbs, you will not only find a pub with a TV screen, but also an enthusiastic Aussie crowd to watch the action. In terms of live sport, we have the famous Boxing Day test match, Aussie Open Tennis, Grand Prix and the Melbourne Cup – Australia’s most famous horse race.
But there’s more than sport. Most importantly, the Melbourne people are an incredible bunch. There's a warm, community sense that vibrates through the city. The locals are typically laid back and welcoming. They love to show off their city and will probably insist on taking you out on the town, exchanging slang words and introducing you to their mates.
This city is famous as the home of culture in Australia and has amazing art exhibitions, markets, music and comedy festivals; shopping, nightclubs and trendy bars. Whatever your taste, you'll find places in Melbourne dedicated to people like yourself.
OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION
See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.
CHECK OUT OUR TOP TIPS
Read our top 5 tips on how to get the most out of your Sport Lived experience.
OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION
See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.
CHECK OUT OUR TOP TIPS
Read our top 5 tips on how to get the most out of your Sport Lived experience.
OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION
See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.
CHECK OUT OUR TOP TIPS
Read our top 5 tips on how to get the most out of your Sport Lived experience.
OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION
See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.
CHECK OUT OUR TOP TIPS
Read our top 5 tips on how to get the most out of your Sport Lived experience.
OUR 4 STAR ACCOMMODATION
See our range of fully furnished 4-star city centre apartments.
CHECK OUT OUR TOP TIPS
Read our top 5 tips on how to get the most out of your Sport Lived experience.
A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS
See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.
OUR BOOKING PROCESS
Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.
FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS
Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.
A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS
See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.
OUR BOOKING PROCESS
Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.
FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS
Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.
A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS
See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.
OUR BOOKING PROCESS
Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.
FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS
Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.
A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS
See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.
OUR BOOKING PROCESS
Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.
FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS
Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.
A PICTURE SAYS A 1000 WORDS
See what our Sport Lived participants got up to on their travels.
OUR BOOKING PROCESS
Follow our simple step-by-step booking process to book your place.
FEEDBACK FROM PARENTS
Hear what the parents have to say about the Sport Lived experience.
