Want to Break Into the Sports Industry? GIS Sydney Opens Its Doors at Allianz Stadium
Aspiring sports professionals will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore postgraduate education and gain valuable career insights when the Global Institute of Sport (GIS) hosts its Open Evening & Masterclass Event at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium on Monday, 16 November 2026.
The event will bring together leading sports industry professionals, students, graduates and academics for an evening of industry discussion, educational opportunities and professional networking.
Hosted by GIS Sydney, the evening will showcase educational programmes offered by GIS and the University of Newcastle, while providing attendees with direct access to professionals who have established careers across international sport.
Industry Leaders to Share Their Experiences
A key highlight of the evening will be an industry guest speaker panel featuring professionals with experience across elite sport, commercial partnerships and international sporting organisations.
Maya Dodson, Sydney Flames basketballer and a 2022 WNBA draft pick by the Phoenix Mercury, will bring insights from her professional basketball career and experiences competing at the elite level.
Joining her will be Maria Hasler, who works in Athlete & Partnerships at Always Human agency and has previously held roles with Arsenal, Nike and DAZN.
A GIS graduate, Hasler will offer a perspective on transitioning from education into professional sports business, drawing on her experience across major international sporting brands and organisations.
The panel will provide attendees with an opportunity to hear about career development, leadership and the skills required to navigate the evolving sports industry.
Exploring Education and Career Pathways in Sport
Beyond the guest speaker panel, the event will introduce prospective students to the educational opportunities available through GIS and the University of Newcastle.
Attendees will learn how postgraduate education can support careers in sports business, leadership, analytics, marketing and commercial operations.
The session will also highlight the importance of combining academic knowledge with industry exposure, professional relationships and practical experience.
With Sydney continuing to attract major sporting events and international investment, the event aims to demonstrate how education and professional development can help aspiring sports professionals establish careers within Australia and overseas.
Building Connections Across the Sports Industry
Networking will form an important part of the evening, with attendees invited to engage directly with industry leaders, GIS alumni, students and fellow aspiring professionals.
The networking session will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas, establish professional relationships and gain a better understanding of career pathways across the global sports industry.
The event will also explore the importance of diversity in leadership and the role different professional experiences play in shaping the future of sport.
For students and professionals seeking to develop their careers, the evening offers access to industry perspectives and connections within a major Australian sporting venue.
How to Attend the GIS Sydney Open Evening & Masterclass
The GIS Sydney Open Evening & Masterclass Event will take place on Monday, 16 November 2026, at Allianz Stadium, Sydney.
Places are limited, with prospective students, graduates and aspiring sports industry professionals encouraged to secure their attendance in advance.
Whether looking to enter the sports industry, advance an existing career or explore postgraduate study, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from experienced professionals and discover the educational pathways available through GIS.
Could One Evening at Allianz Stadium Change Your Career in Sport?
REGISTER NOW – SECURE YOUR PLACE AT THE GIS SYDNEY OPEN EVENING & MASTERCLASS