Michael goes from the Air Force to the business of footy

From a military family, Michael spent 20 years in the Air Force, stationed in Queensland, the Northern Territory and New South Wales, in logistics and leading teams.

Alongside his defence career, he proudly represented the Philippines in international rugby league and is now the President of the Philippines National Rugby League Association in Australia.

A passionate rugby league supporter and a lifelong Brisbane Broncos fan, Michael found the Brisbane Broncos Sport Business Institute (BBSBI) on the Broncos website, and his interest was piqued.

“I wasn’t working at the time and looking for something new. Then I stumbled across the Brisbane Broncos Sport Business Institute on the Brisbane Broncos website after applying for another job at the club,” Michael says.

As part of TAFE Queensland's Academy of Sport, the BBSBI presented a perfect opportunity for him to study for the career he wanted in a way relevant to his passion for sport.

Delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland and the Brisbane Broncos, Michael now studies at the club’s Red Hill headquarters, learning the nuances of community leadership through sport.

Studying for a Diploma of Sport and a Diploma of Leadership and Management (SIS50321/BSB50420) through the BBSBI gives Michael the tools to channel his lived experience into practical leadership skills - with a modern, people-first lens.

“The military gave me great structure and discipline, but leadership is different in the civilian world. Sport’s always been a big part of my life, and this just felt like the right fit,” he explained.

“In defence, you give an order, and people jump. But now I’m working with volunteers and community groups and learning to lead and manage teams with empathy, communication and influence.”

His teachers, Graham Leeson, Grant Dwyer, and Expo Mejia, bring decades of industry experience and insights to the classroom, which has been vital to his training and development.

"The teachers are fantastic; they bring so much life experience and useful information to every class and play a massive role in our training."

Describing his class as more of a team than a cohort, Michael enjoys learning alongside like-minded people from various backgrounds and ages, which enriches his study experience.

“I’m the oldest in the class, which was a bit daunting at first, and I had moments where I questioned if I was doing the right thing, but after a couple of weeks, I found my feet. My class is diverse, from people who just left school to those like me who finished school 30 years ago.”

“It’s interesting and challenging, and I’ve been able to guide some of the younger students by sharing tips and helping them see how they can create their career pathways. It’s a positive environment where we all contribute, and I’ve found it rewarding.”

Studying at the home of the Brisbane Broncos gives Michael and his class access to guest speakers from the club, who provide insights into the business side of football, their roles, and the sports industry.

“Each department head gives us a deep dive into the function of their role. Seeing what goes on behind the scenes at a football club is incredible - you don’t truly understand it until you’re in it.”

“I found the insights from the sponsorship team invaluable - especially hearing how they engage with sponsors and present the value of those partnerships.”

Michael has applied his new skills to two rugby league organisations he helps lead: the Philippines National Rugby League (Australian chapter) and the Asia Rugby League Development non-profit organisations.

“I’ve been able to take what I’ve learned here and apply it directly to both my roles - it’s been incredibly helpful,” he explained.

Rounding out his education and training is the course’s 100 hours of real-life work experience across Brisbane Broncos departments.

Using his training, Michael supported the National Rugby League’s game development team to deliver the Mini League program, where he guided young players and their families through game day nerves to play on Suncorp Stadium before a Brisbane Broncos home game.

“I loved connecting with the kids and their parents, calming them down and helping them enjoy the moment. That ability to connect is a huge part of what we’re learning.”

“I want to keep growing the game for the Philippines and help our players develop their skills and grow as people. That’s what it’s all about.”

His long-term goal? To build a lasting career in the sports industry - ideally in a role that combines leadership, development, and mentoring.

“I’ve played footy all my life and want to give back. If I can help the next generation find their feet - in sport and life - then I’m exactly where I’m meant to be,” Michael concluded.

Michael’s story exemplifies how study can help seasoned professionals repurpose their skills to make positive change.