Workshop 7.1: Sport Supporting Social and Academic Cohesion
Tracks
Sport & Education
| Wednesday, July 1, 2026 |
| 1:35 PM - 2:10 PM |
Details
Exploring how sport can be a powerful platform to strengthen social connection while supporting positive academic outcomes. Through practical examples and evidence-based insights, speakers will share insights on how well-designed sport programs can improve engagement, inclusion, wellbeing, and learning outcomes across school and community settings.
Speaker
Sunil Menon
Head of Community
Melbourne City Football Club
Social Cohesion in Schools Program - Supporting Non English-Speaking Children to be Motivated by Sports Programs to Connect Inside and Outside of Schools
Biography
Sunil Menon is the Head of Community at Melbourne City FC, leading the club’s social impact strategy through its charitable arm, City in the Community. Sunil oversees programs that use football as a tool for inclusion, education and opportunity, ensuring Melbourne City FC makes a meaningful difference beyond the pitch.
Under his leadership, City in the Community has been widely recognised for its award-winning programs, work in youth engagement, employment pathways, disability inclusion and multicultural participation. Sunil plays a key role in delivering flagship initiatives in schools, correctional facilities and community outreach, empowering young people and communities across Victoria while reinforcing the club’s commitment to equality, access and long-term social impact.
Arturo Tallarida
Assistant Principal
Rosebud Secondary College
Well-Designed Sport Programs
Biography