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SEPA Women in Sports and Exercise Podiatry: Sia Kazantzis

Sia Kazantzis
Sia Kazantzis


'SEPA Women in Sports & Exercise Podiatry' is a feature where we highlight the achievements of SEPA women who are excelling in the field.

In this edition, we are proud to pay tribute to SEPA member, Sia Kazantzis.

Read on to learn more about Sia's career in sports and exercise podiatry.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Podiatry, Master of Sports Medicine

     

Years in Podiatry
  • 15 years
 

Tell us about your work history

As a new graduate, I worked in rural Victoria for a couple of years before returning to Melbourne. Living away from home had its challenges, but it gave me clinical experience that I’ll always be grateful for. After 7 years of working long hours and 6 days per week, I encountered the dreaded burn out. At that time, I was at a crossroads: whether to stay in podiatry or pursue a different career path. I remembered what led me to podiatry in the first place and that was my love of sport. From that moment, I decided to focus my career around my passion and I have never looked back.
 
This led me to completing my Master of Sports Medicine post-graduate qualification from the University of Melbourne.
 
Currently, I practice at the Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre in Melbourne, where I am a part of a multidisciplinary team and have gained experience working with athletes from a range of different sporting codes and organisations.
 
This exposure has also led me into pursuing opportunities beyond podiatry. When I am not in the clinic, I am part of both the Education and Field Staff teams at Sport Integrity Australia and hold a position as an Integrity Education and Support officer for Tennis Victoria. I am passionate about clean, safe sport and I believe that sport should be fair and enjoyable for all involved.
 
Additionally, I hold a tutor position at the University of Melbourne in sports pharmacotheraputics. One of the aims of this subject is to develop the ability of our students to make nuanced decisions and stand firmly with integrity when working in sport, whilst maintaining alignment with Sport Integrity Australia, World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and all ethical practice guidelines. 
 
 
What do you think are the current roadblocks for women in building a career focusing on sports and exercise?
 
I believe the current roadblocks include women’s visibility in sport and exercise podiatry, mentoring opportunities, and leadership pathways. 
 
Women’s sport has come a long way and it is so exciting to see such growth, opportunity, and support around the world. This isn’t only in the context of sport itself, but for women working in sport too! 
 
How do you balance the pressures of growing your career with maintaining a personal life?
 
This is a tough one! Working in sport can have its challenges, especially around weekend commitments.
 
I make a conscious effort not to overcommit myself and ensure I have a good work/life balance by including upcoming holidays in my calendar – otherwise it is easy get caught up and become a mouse on a wheel! 

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