Mitchell Callaghan
Assistant Kit and Team Manager, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management
The team culture within his work is amazing, says Mitchell Callaghan who is now the assistant kit and team manager for the A-League and reserves men's teams at Auckland FC.
“I help organise our players' training and matchday kits to ensure they look and can perform to their best. I also assist with the day-to-day operations, ensuring training and matchdays run as smoothly as possible, including during travel.
“I have the privilege of working with a tight-knit group of staff and players who have welcomed me since the beginning. Having a strong connection with the players is essential in my role as they look to me and my boss for anything they need on and off the pitch, and it’s my job to ensure that their needs are met.”
He feels motivated each time he comes to work.
“Auckland FC has crushed records and surprised the nation with its hard work and results. I love the high-pressure environments on game days, and to see all our hard work and preparation come together while our team is playing is incredibly rewarding. However, the achievement I’m most proud of so far has to be winning the A-League 2024/25 Premiers Plate in our very first season. Not many people can say they have been a part of a brand-new club since the beginning and have won silverware in the first season!”
Finding his path
A career in sports was always on the cards for Mitchell, who came to AUT to study a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management.
“This degree immediately appealed to me as I grew up playing sports and knew that I wanted to stay around sports. I had many friends come through AUT and heard nothing but great reviews from them. I also knew that AUT is known for its connections with the sporting industry, and was confident that the Bachelor of Sport and Recreation would lead me on the correct path.”
It's a decision he certainly hasn’t regretted, and he still has many fond memories of his time at AUT.
“I made so many friends during my time at AUT and we’re still close now. I particularly liked the smaller sizes of the classes and lectures. It enabled me to connect more with my classmates and my lecturers, instead of getting lost in the crowd. The big boat trip at the beginning of my first year was a massive highlight – not only did it lead to new friendships, it was just an awesome experience overall.”
Advice for other students
Mitchell, who graduated from AUT in 2023, has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice is to be confident and back yourself.”
He also stresses the importance of making connections.
“Speak to as many people as you can while you’re at uni; the more connections you make, the better it will be for your career.”
