MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Monique FitzGerald
A Life Built on Movement, Community and Inclusion
For Monique FitzGerald, sport has never been just about competition, it has always been about connection, community and creating environments where everyone belongs.
Growing up in Sale, Victoria, Monique was raised in an active, adventurous family where movement was part of everyday life. With anOutdoor Education teacher as a father and parents who encouraged curiosity and exploration, weekends and holidays were spent in the outdoors, camping, hiking, kayaking, cycling, skiing and surfing. “Being active wasn’t about winning,”Monique reflects. “It was about fun, connection and being together.”
That foundation shaped not only her love of sport, but her belief in its power to support wellbeing, confidence and social connection, values that continue to guide her work today.
Finding Belonging Through Sport
At school, Monique gravitated towards any opportunity to move. Netball quickly became her passion, offering both a strong pathway and the social connection she valued most. Supported by coaches, administrators and advocates, who regularly promoted women’s sport and pushed for inclusive club environments, Monique thrived in spaces where women and girls were seen, valued and supported.
“The teamwork required in netball has absolutely shaped my leadership style,” she says. “Working together towards a shared goal is something I carry into every space I lead.”
Monique’s love for movement extended well beyond structured sport. Influenced by active grandparents and a family culture of informal play, she learned early that being active doesn’t need to look one way, a philosophy she now brings into schools and communities.
From Country Roots to Statewide Impact
Determined to build a career in sport and education, Monique moved from country Victoria to Melbourne to study Physical Education atVictoria University. Alongside her studies, she immersed herself in the sport industry; coaching, delivering programs, facilitating courses, working at major sporting venues, and supporting community programs.
These experiences not only built her confidence but cemented her passion for education. After completing her PE degree, Monique taught within the Diploma of Sport and Recreation, where she played a key role in developing industry-linked programs, study tours and partnerships. Her work was recognised at the highest level, earning Vice Chancellor awards for excellence in teaching and learning.
Today, Monique works as a Physical Activity Advisor withActive Schools, supporting schools across Victoria to build inclusive, engaging and sustainable physical activity cultures. One of her most rewarding moments has been seeing former students she once taught now working in schools themselves, a full-circle reminder of the long-term impact of leadership in education and sport.
Leadership Grounded in Community
Beyond her professional role, Monique’s leadership shows up daily as a mum, volunteer and community advocate. From helping at her children’s sporting clubs to serving as President of her school council, she believes strongly in shared responsibility and teamwork.
“Many hands make light work,” she says. “When communities work together, we create better experiences for young people — in sport, in school and in life.”
Empowered to Lead: Confidence to Step Forward
Monique joined the Empowered to Lead program after hearing strong feedback from colleagues and recognising its alignment with her passion for bridging the gap between schools and sport. “School is where the love of movement can begin,” she explains. “If we get that experience right, it can shape participation for life.”
The program delivered more than she expected. Through reflection, connection and practical tools, Monique gained clarity, confidence and renewed motivation. “It helped me realise that I’m ready, I just need to go and back myself,” she says.
One idea that stayed with her was the potential to embed leadership development programs from an earlier age. “Empowered to Lead belongs in schools,” she reflects. “There is such a need to empower students, especially girls, to see themselves as leaders.”
Looking Ahead
As Monique continues her leadership journey, her focus remains on creativity, collaboration and impact. Whether empowering students in schools, supporting inclusive practices or advocating for movement as a foundation for wellbeing, she is committed to leading in a way that reflects her values.
“To play like a girl,” Monique says, “is about confidently using your strengths to play and lead in your own unique way, whilst providing space and support for others to do the same.”
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