sport
Box Hill Venues Upgrade Infrastructure Supporting Local College Sports Programs
Upgraded City Oval facilities and the Hawthorn College of Sport support training and education pathways in the area.
How we reported this
Box Hill City Oval reopened in May 2026 after upgrades that include a new playing surface, synthetic exercise track and pavilion improvements serving the Box Hill Hawks VFL team.
The reopening arrives as the Hawthorn College of Sport, launched by the Hawthorn Football Club and Box Hill Institute, enters its second year of operation and adds a formal university pathway.
City Oval Infrastructure Improvements
The May 2026 reopening delivered a refreshed playing surface and synthetic exercise track at City Oval, directly benefiting the Box Hill Hawks. Pavilion upgrades completed at the same time provide additional support spaces for training and match-day operations. These changes address longstanding needs for higher-standard venues used by both community and elite-level programs.
Further work on the site includes a planned two-storey West Pavilion due for completion by mid-2027. Lighting upgrades at the oval are being coordinated jointly by the Box Hill Hawks and the local cricket club to extend usable hours for training and events.
Hawthorn College of Sport Program Delivery
The Hawthorn College of Sport began with its first cohort in February 2025. The program delivers a dual diploma in Sport and Leadership through Box Hill Institute in partnership with the Hawthorn Football Club. Students gain access to elite facilities and direct interaction with club personnel as part of the curriculum.
Completion of the diploma now guarantees a pathway to Deakin University, with eight credit points awarded toward Bachelor of Sport Development or Sport Management degrees. This structure links practical venue use at sites such as City Oval with structured tertiary study options.
Next Steps for Participants
Prospective students can review enrolment details through Box Hill Institute channels ahead of the next intake. The combination of upgraded local venues and the established diploma pathway continues to expand options for those pursuing sport-related study and development in the area.