Role models are an important part of developing a social identity, particularly for those of us who wish to lead.
Two aspiring young leaders were treated to an eye-opening experience ahead of the Perth Scorchers’ KFC Big Bash League match against Sydney Thunder at Optus Stadium, where they met key role models at the top of their game.
Participants from the WA Cricket Foundation’s Emerging Leaders program, Stephanie Spadaro and Tessa Wagstaff, were invited onto the pitch and introduced to allrounders Aaron Hardie and Cooper Connolly.
The players are both members of the Hussey Group, a group of mentors and mentees formed by WA Cricket’s High Performance program, to develop the next generation of leaders among the Perth Scorchers and Western Australian squads.
The young women had the opportunity to ask the Scorchers questions about their leadership style, discuss the qualities of a good leader, and take advice from the players. Tessa said the opportunity was an honour.
“It’s so cool that the program can let us do this, and I’m so grateful that we get this chance,” she said.
The WA Cricket Foundation’s Emerging Leaders program provides a unique opportunity for young female cricketers from across WA to come together to share their love of cricket and develop leadership skills both on and off the pitch.
Sessions for successful applicants aged 14-17 run monthly across a six-month timeframe, with applications for the next intake opening in March 2023.
Both Stephanie and Tessa credit the program with improving their self-assurance and composure.
“It’s definitely helped with my confidence and also my communication skills, both on and off the field,” Stephanie said.
For more information on the program, contact WA Cricket Project Officer – Participation & Female Engagement, Tayla Tenaglia.
Current Emerging Leaders participants
- Abbie Millis
- Abigail Mcilveen
- Charlotte Toohey
- Chloe Bartholomew
- Ella Rehak
- Emily Green
- Harriet Millar
- Layla Quinn-Schofield
- Myla Fisher
- Olivia Rintoul
- Polly Phillips
- Stephanie Spadaro
- Tegan Williamson
- Tessa Wagstaff
- Tiffany Tennent
- Zoe Burgess