Kurnai Aspiring Athletes Program (KAAP)

The Kurnai Aspiring Athlete Program (KAAP) supports students who are passionate about sport and committed to developing as athletes, learners, and leaders. The program provides students with high-quality training, expert support, and real-world sporting experiences while maintaining a strong focus on academic success and wellbeing.

KAAP is open to Year 7/8 and Year 9/10 students across both Morwell and Churchill Junior Campuses. The program is designed for all aspiring athletes, regardless of sporting background or code.

From 2026, KAAP will operate within the school timetable, allowing students to engage fully in their training while balancing their learning commitments. The program will be led by Mr Motton and delivered in partnership with leading regional sporting organisations.

Partnerships & Pathways

KAAP is proudly partnered with the Gippsland Sports Academy (GSA), providing students with access to industry professionals and high-performance environments. Through this partnership, students are supported by:

  • Accredited strength and conditioning coaches
  • Sports nutritionists
  • Sports psychologists

Students also engage with the Gippsland Tech School, gaining exposure to sports science concepts, technology, and innovation within the sporting industry.

KAAP works closely with elite regional sporting organisations, including:

  • Gippsland Power (AFL)
  • Gippsland United Basketball

These partnerships provide students with insight into athlete pathways, professional standards, and future opportunities in sport and recreation.

What’s Included in KAAP?

Students participating in KAAP will experience:

  • Regular strength and conditioning sessions delivered by qualified coaches
  • Fitness testing and goal setting to track individual development
  • Sports nutrition education, including fuelling and recovery strategies
  • Sessions focused on mindset, resilience, and performance psychology
  • Professional guest speakers, including elite athletes and industry professionals
  • Exclusive excursions, such as visits to the Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS) and other high-performance environments
  • Exposure to career and study pathways in sport, fitness, and health

Both Morwell and Churchill Junior Campuses offer the program and provide students with access to their on-site school gyms, featuring updated weights, equipment, and training accessories.

Program Fee & Inclusions

The annual KAAP program fee is $250.

This fee includes:

  • A KAAP / Gippsland Sports Academy uniform
  • Access to expert external providers (GSA staff)
  • Guest speakers and workshops
  • Excursions and industry-based experiences
  • Use of specialised training equipment and facilities

Student Expectations

KAAP students are expected to demonstrate commitment both on and off the field.

  • Students must maintain a minimum Learning Behaviour Unit (LBU) score of 3.0
  • Positive behaviour, attendance, and engagement are essential
  • Students must represent Kurnai College with respect, effort, and pride
  • Students who fail to meet expectations may be removed from the program

KAAP students are viewed as role models within the school community and are supported to achieve strong outcomes in both sport and learning.

KAAP Coaching & Leadership Team

Boadie Motton
Jeff Derkacs
KAAP LeaderKAAP Coordinator