Emerging AFLW talent Mattea Breed has been successful in her application for a cadetship position at NAB, as part of Workplay, NAB and the AFLW's Beyond the Field employment program.

This program is a bespoke women in sport employment program that showcases NAB’s support of women athletes by offering a unique pathway of professional growth during and beyond their sporting careers. The roles provide candidates exposure across NAB’s core areas of business in change management, commercial operations, products, marketing, strategy and more.

Breed's successful application means that she has now been appointed as a NAB Change Leader, alongside representing Hawthorn in the AFLW. 

“I love that NAB are a major sponsor of the AFL and AFLW, they give so much for us to be able to live out our dreams and provide huge support for women’s sport, so it’s really nice to be able to feel like you’re giving back," Breed said.

In talking about the importance of flexible working, Breed noted the open communication available in her team at NAB and how crucial strong relationships are for her personal success and wellbeing.

“It plays a massive part, the fact that I can get in touch with my people leader to share changes to my hours, or changes to the club schedule whether it’s pre-season or in-season… having that flexibility and support takes so much stress off,” Breed said.

 The cadetship program is one that equips athletes with the ability to learn new skills, be immersed in a new off-field environment and provides security in knowing that their on-field career is also supported.

“It’s so important to be able to do both, footy is a fickle environment and isn’t forever, so to be able to develop your skills in a professional environment whilst you’re playing eases the confrontation of contemplating what’s next or what’s beyond the game. You get the best of both worlds and are developing in multiple facets of your life” Breed said.

On the field, the 22-year-old had an impressive maiden season in 2023, playing across all positions to suit up for eight of a possible 10 games. 

She will look to continue that solid form in 2024 as she embarks on her second year in brown and gold.

Hawthorn's AFLW season kicks off on Sunday 1 September against Carlton at Kinetic Stadium.