Valley Sport Podcast - Sport and Community - From the Mountains to the Murray

Pressure at 14: Why Kids Feel Like They Have to Be Stars

In this episode, we sit down with registered sports psychologist Joel Curtis from Endeavour Wellness to unpack one of the biggest challenges in junior sport right now—pressure. From selection stress and sideline expectations to the growing influence of social media and early talent pathways, Joel shares what’s really going on inside the minds of young athletes. We explore where this pressure comes from, how it shows up, and the long-term impact it can have on confidence, enjoyment, and development. This conversation isn’t about blaming parents or coaches—it’s about understanding the environment we’re creating in local sport, and how we can better support kids to stay in the game for the long run. If you’re a parent, coach, or young athlete, this is a must-listen episode full of practical insights and honest discussion about what really matters in junior sport.

From Conflict to Clarity: How Local Clubs Can Handle Disputes Better

This week on From The Mountains To The Murray, we’re joined by Jacqui McConville from JMX Solutions—an expert in conflict management and dispute resolution—to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing local clubs and community groups. Jacqui dives into the common conflicts clubs face, why they escalate, and how committees and volunteers can better manage difficult situations. From internal disagreements to member disputes, this episode is packed with practical, real-world advice. We also take a closer look at the Club Conflict Compass Workshop, an upcoming opportunity for clubs across the Valley Sport region. Jacqui shares what attendees can expect, the tools and strategies they’ll gain, and how the workshop can help create stronger, more connected clubs. If you're involved in community sport, this is a must-listen to help you lead with clarity and confidence when it matters most. 🎧 Tune in now and start navigating conflict the right way.

Coaching for Everyone: Inclusion in Action in Shepparton

In this episode of From The Mountains To The Murray, the team heads to Shepparton following Valley Sport’s Inclusive Coaching Workshop — a powerful session focused on helping local coaches create environments where everyone feels welcome, valued and supported. We’re joined by Nick Antonello from the Shepparton Swimming Club and Chris Nicholson from the Shepparton Runners Club to reflect on the workshop, discuss the importance of inclusion in community sport, and share how clubs can take practical steps to make trainings, game days and club culture more accessible for all. We’re also joined by guest speaker Adam Georgelin, who shares his insights from the night and highlights why inclusive coaching is not just a philosophy — it’s a responsibility.

Breaking Barriers in Community Sport

On this week’s episode of Valley Sport: From the Mountains to the Murray, we’re joined by Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali, Australian Sports Commission Program Manager for Industry Projects Nick Abroms, and Valley Sport Executive Officer Megan Carr for an important conversation about the future of community sport. Together, we explore the real barriers preventing underrepresented communities from fully participating in local sport — and how councils, state bodies, and national organisations are working collaboratively to remove them. From governance and volunteering challenges to inclusion, accessibility and cultural safety, this episode dives into what it truly takes to build safe, welcoming and vibrant sporting clubs. These discussions come ahead of one of three community consultations led by the Australian Sports Commission’s Sports Volunteer Coalition, designed to better understand the challenges facing volunteers and communities across the region. If you care about the strength, sustainability and inclusivity of grassroots sport, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Unveiling Valley Sport’s New Strategic Plan

In this special episode of From the Mountains to the Murray, we unveil Valley Sport’s new strategic plan and explore the roadmap guiding our mission to create better lives through sport. Hosted by Valley Sport Project Officer Nate Dedman, this conversation features Valley Sport Chair Belinda Conna, Board Member Mark Bamford, and Executive Officer Megan Carr. Together, they share insights into how the new strategy was shaped, why it matters for our region, and what it means for clubs, volunteers and communities across the region. We also dive into Belinda and Mark’s personal journeys into sport leadership, reflect on some of their favourite sporting experiences, and discuss the real challenges grassroots clubs are facing today — from participation pressures to sustainability and volunteer capacity. Join us as we look ahead with clarity and purpose, strengthening sport from the mountains to the Murray.