Sean prepares for post cricketing career success

Growing up in Rockhampton, Sean's love for the game started in the backyard with family matches and quickly evolved into competitive play. By age three, he was playing in under-sevens; by six, he was competing in under-tens.

His enthusiasm grew stronger after watching the iconic 2005 Ashes series between Australia and England, which solidified his dream of making the sport a central part of his life.

Sean's journey in cricket has been remarkable. He initially played mainstream cricket, progressing through pathways before discovering deaf cricket, which opened a new world of opportunities.

A talented off-spinner, he made his Australian debut at the Deaf T20 World Cup in India in 2018, finishing the tournament as the team’s leading wicket-taker at 17. Since then, he has played nearly 100 games for Australia.

"Deaf cricket has been a massive part of my life and identity. It’s given me friendships, a sense of belonging in the deaf community, and the chance to represent my country,” said Steve.

As he prepares for another international tour, Sean is far from finished with his cricketing career. With his sights set on the 2028 Deaf Cricket World Cup, he also hopes to don the green and gold at the Brisbane Paralympics in 2032.

"While the 2032 Games is a long-term goal, I’ll be 36 when it kicks off, so hopefully I’ll still be spinning a couple and earning selection," he said.

While still an international player, Sean is preparing for life beyond playing through the Queensland Cricket Institute of Sport and Business.

As part of TAFE Queensland’s Academy of Sport, Sean is completing a comprehensive 12-month dual award program that includes the Diploma of Leadership and Management and the Diploma of Sport (BSB50420/SIS50321).

Based at the premier Elite Cricket facility in the precinct, students will receive specialised coaching, learn from expert guest speakers and gain practical experience within the professional cricket industry.

Importantly, the TAFE Queensland-delivered dual diploma is supplemented by 100 hours of work-integrated learning across Queensland Cricket and Brisbane Heat operations.

This practical experience is designed to enhance students' resumes and equip them with job-ready skills essential for success in the industry.

Participants also benefit from exclusive access to Queensland Cricket headquarters, gaining invaluable insights into event management, community engagement, facility operations, fan interaction, and match-day protocols.

Additionally, TAFE Queensland has several tertiary pathway options, allowing graduates to move into the second year of several bachelor's degrees with a broad range of university partners.

Through the program, Sean has gained first-hand experience with Queensland Cricket, interacting with professionals who have helped him see the sport from a new perspective while providing him with valuable industry connections, business acumen, and a deeper understanding of the administrative side of cricket.

"This course is an incredible opportunity to upskill and get my foot in the door of the cricket industry beyond playing," continued Steve.

"Being in the building every day, talking to people like Nick Hockley and other industry professionals, has been invaluable."

With a background in sports administration, including work with the Brisbane Bandits baseball team and various small clubs, he understands the importance of upskilling and networking.

The course’s work-integrated learning model has reinforced his aspirations to transition from a player to a key figure in the cricket industry.

Beyond administration, Sean has a strong interest in cricket analytics and inclusion initiatives. Having worked in data analysis for broadcasters and Cricket Australia, he enjoys breaking down the game and identifying ways to improve team performance.

"I’d love to work in cricket analytics, helping teams improve their performance, but I’m equally passionate about growing the game in underrepresented communities, like disability cricket and Indigenous cricket,” continued Sean.

“Cricket Australia has a slogan, ‘Cricket is a sport for all,’ and I hope to play a role in breaking down barriers and making cricket a truly accessible sport for everyone."

“As someone who has navigated the sport with a hearing impairment, I’m passionate about increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups, including Indigenous, multicultural, and disability communities,” he said.

Reflecting on his studies, Sean is grateful for the opportunity to refine his skills, expand his knowledge, and gain industry exposure.

The course has reaffirmed his passion for cricket and helped him shape a clear path forward in the industry, and he has one message for aspiring sports professionals: investing in your future is never too late.

“Whether fresh out of high school or returning to study later in life, education provides a unique and valuable stepping stone into any industry. Cricket will always be a huge part of my life, whether playing or working behind the scenes,” concluded Sean.