The tall, athletic and intelligent Courtney Bruce has developed into arguably the competition’s leading Australian defender - but her on-court success is just the start.
Her experience playing against the world’s best shooters as part of national team, the Australian Diamonds, combined with her role as captain of the West Coast Fever, make Courtney one of Australia’s most formidable netball players. But Courtney has another string to her bow – studying Psychology and Indigenous Studies at UWA.
"I have always been interested in the way we think and act and why we do what we do and I love the idea of helping people, so psychology seemed like a great choice and something that would allow me to help others,” she says.
"My aim is to work hands-on in both the psychology and Indigenous spheres, doing something that helps improve the wellbeing and mental health of young kids. I guess also using my background in sport will help to facilitate all of that. "
Given that netball demands a lot of Courtney's time, finding a balance between sport, study and a personal life is just one more thing she knows how to do well. She says UWA's encouragement and flexibility has been one of the most positive things about studying.
"The support I receive is great and the staff are really engaging and helpful. It can be really tough but UWA is very accommodating in helping me find a balance, and the elite athlete program is extremely helpful and provides a lot of support."
Take a look at how Courtney spends her day on campus at UWA
Courtney has learnt to balance her sporting and university commitments by making sure her classes fit around training times and being well prepared to complete her assignments.
"I'm a better athlete and student when I have something else going on, so doing uni and sport balances me out nicely,” she says.
Studying at UWA has brought out the best in Courtney and given her plenty of skills that can be transferred to her netball.
"I think sport and study go hand-in-hand. I’m a lot more confident and have sharpened my time management skills which, together, have helped improve my leadership skills. "
So what advice does Courtney have for our next generation of sporting stars?
"The more you love something and have fun, the better you are going to be at it, so find the things you love and you will always excel in whatever you choose. But don’t forget to enjoy the process along the way – it’s the small moments that make life truly great.”
If you’re interested in following your passion and studying a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, we have plenty of flexible ways to start.
Check out these pathways:
- Bachelor of Arts (Psychological and Behavioural Sciences major)
- Bachelor of Science (Psychological and Behavioural Sciences major)
- Bachelor of Psychology
