At MLC, sport goes beyond physical fitness – it builds confidence, determination and leadership, equipping our girls with the skills needed for lifelong success. We are dedicated to supporting and growing sporting opportunities throughout the school years and beyond to ensure our students not only play sport but stay in sport.
Research shows that girls who engage in sport are more likely to take on leadership roles and experience career success, with a direct correlation between participation in sport and future professional achievements.
At MLC, Sporting Excellence is a cornerstone of our Strategic Plan, Shaping Futures: MLC 2030. We are committed to nurturing athletic talent and fostering a culture where every student can thrive, whether they’re pursuing elite competition or discovering the joy of participation.
Our High-Performance Sporting Pathways program provides tailored support for students striving for excellence in sport. Whether representing their State, nation or excelling in school-based competition, our athletes are empowered to balance academic success with sporting ambition.
To support our students competing at an elite level—and inspire them to continue their sporting journey beyond school—MLC awards High-Performance Sports Prizes annually, beginning in 2026.
Established with the support of the College and generous donors, these prizes help offset the costs associated with high-level training and competition, including travel, coaching and equipment.
Applications for 2026 Sports Prizes are now closed.
As part of our Strategic Plan, Shaping Futures: MLC 2030, Sporting Excellence at MLC is driven by three key programs:
| Professional Partnerships | Participation to Podium |
|---|---|
| MLC collaborates with leading sporting organisations, universities and industry experts to elevate student outcomes. These connections ensure our students are not only prepared for competition but also for future careers in sport, health and leadership. | We believe every student should have the opportunity to participate, grow and succeed. Through our IGSSA, JIGSSA, and club programs, we: strengthen foundational skills and team culture, provide inclusive opportunities across a wide range of sports, and celebrate progression from grassroots to podium-level achievement. |
In Years 7-12, students engage in a dynamic sporting program through the Independent Girls’ Schools’ Sports Association (IGSSA WA), which offers both Carnival Sports and WA Team Sports.
Carnival competitions culminate in major one-day events and are a priority in our program. Training is led by expert coaches and held multiple times per week to ensure MLC fields its strongest possible teams.
Team sports take place on weekday afternoons with training once a week. These run parallel to Carnival Sports, and many girls participate in both. The program encourages students to find their passions, build teamwork and strive for excellence throughout the year.
Students can also participate in signature club programs such as the MLC Netball Club, MLC Fury Volleyball strength and conditioning, Run Club and more.
Sports offered each term include:
MLC Rowing is one of our proudest traditions, with several Collegians having rowed at State, National and Olympic levels. Students are introduced to rowing in Year 8, with formal training beginning in Year 9. The IGSSA season, held in Term 2 at Champion Lakes, is supported by an extensive pre-season that begins in Term 4 of the previous year. Athletes train a minimum of four times per week, including Saturday mornings, and balance rowing with other co-curriculars through careful planning. Watch the video below to see how MLC Rowing builds resilience, commitment and lifelong friendships.
A cornerstone in the MLC sporting experience, our Netball Club supports 37 teams in 2025 across Years 2-12 (as well as several Collegian teams), competing in the Perth Netball Association (PNA). All students who sign up and tryout are placed in a team, playing on Friday evenings (Years 2-4) or Saturdays (Years 5-12). Training occurs one evening per week, complemented by optional specialist sessions in shooting, defence and fitness. With a reputation for being a centre of excellence for netball, the Club fosters community, leadership and high performance.
Sport in the Junior Years (Pre-Primary to Year 6) prioritises inclusive participation and positive sporting experiences. Every student is encouraged to take part in appropriately challenging activities that promote both skill development and enjoyment in a supportive, fun environment.
Our program helps students build:
1. Emotional and physical confidence
2. Leadership skills
3. Social connection
4. Sportsmanship
Students can participate in a range of activities through the Junior Independent Girls’ Schools’ Sports Association (JIGGSA), development squads, Interhouse Carnivals and after-school programs like Kidz’n Sport.
Our Junior Years’ Sport offering includes:
Our co-curricular sport program is designed to provide our girls with the skills and mindset necessary for success, both in sport and in life. Find out more about Sporting Excellence at MLC by viewing our Sport Handbook.
