I am a Sport and Exercise Physician based in Melbourne, and a proud advocate for women in sport and medicine.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with trailblazing female athletes, including the Australian Diamonds Netball team, the Aussie Stingers Water Polo team, and more recently, the Matildas. Witnessing their pursuit of excellence and equality - while inspiring the next generation of both female and more importantly, male athletes - has been extraordinary. The impact of this visibility is profound: my four year old son tells me he wants to be a Matilda when he grows up. A generation ago, such aspirations would have been unthinkable. To play even a small role in this cultural shift is an incredible professional privilege.
At home, many of our family games involve someone “getting injured” and being sent to the bench to see the doctor. Whilst it may seem a funny anecdote on the surface, it reminds me of the importance of role modelling what a successful working mother can look like. That knowledge brings me both pride and satisfaction.
The journey, however, has not been without challenges. Taking time out to have my son was one of the most difficult periods of my career. With no income during maternity leave and no guaranteed training position upon return, the impact on my career trajectory was real and immediate. I returned to work quickly, often relying on lunchtime naps on the examination couch, just to manage the demands. Without the support of mentors in the College, and sports such as Netball who welcomed my son at training sessions from three weeks of age and even on tour, the effect on my career would have been far greater.
It is now my turn to give back - to support women and mentor those navigating similar challenges. My goal in joining the Women in SEM Committee is to shine a light not only on the difficulties, but also on the opportunities. Together, we can address structural barriers while empowering individuals to thrive as Specialist Sport and Exercise Physicians.
Dr Carlee Van Dyk
Alphington Sports Medicine Centre
https://alphingtonsportsmed.com.au/profile/dr-carlee-van-dyk/
Chief Medical Officer- Water Polo Australia