2026 National Careers Week I Caitlin O’Dea

To celebrate National Careers Week, Volleyball Australia is highlighting members of the community who are exemplifying balance between their sporting and professional worlds.

After completing her time in the United States playing Division 1 indoor and beach volleyball for San Jose State University in the NCAA on a full scholarship, Caitlin O’Dea turned her passion for volleyball into a business, whilst still pursuing her Olympic dream. 

O’Dea was introduced to volleyball when she was 14, the love for the sport was instant. 

She loved the intensity, the team environment, the technicality of the game and the constant challenge to be the best.

“I’d always dreamed of becoming an Olympian, and once I saw volleyball as that pathway, all my decisions started to revolve around it,” she said.

Her career has taken her around the world, spanning 35 countries, learning from the best coaches, and meeting people that would shape her life. 

Enter her husband, Trent O’Dea.

As the co-founder of B.A.L.A Academy, the business has grown from an idea and passion, into a multi-location volleyball academy across Queensland and is expanding nationally. 

O’Dea’s mission is to help educate and encourage young volleyball players towards long-term pathway opportunities in the game.

“It’s very much a dual career – I love competing at the highest level, and business allows me to give back to the next generation and create something bigger than myself.” 

Volleyball has been a huge part of her life, but she never wanted it to be her sole focus. 

“Professional sport can be unpredictable,” she said. “Athletic careers are often shorter than people realise.”

She has found balance in building B.A.L.A Academy, alongside her sporting career. It has given her more perspective, adaptability, accountability and knowledge, making her a better athlete and business woman.

“I also think athletes become very good problem-solvers because we constantly have to adapt,” she said. 

“You learn how to stay composed, solution oriented rather than problem focusses, and to keep moving forward.

“That mindset has been incredibly valuable in business and life.”

O’Dea’s perspective on sport and business shifted gradually over time.

“I realised that being an athlete wasn’t just about performance – you’re essentially running your own business.”

“Initially, B.A.L.A was something that supported my journey financially, but it quickly grew into something more meaningful.”

The support of her family is what she credits to the success of her business and on the court, with her mum, dad, brother and husband coming together to support the business in every aspect possible. 

Her schedule is demanding, but she is clear with her time and priorities. Not everything gets equal attention every day. Sometimes sport takes priority, especially during competition periods, and other times business requires more focus. 

“Being able to manage both areas well comes down to having the right people around you,” she said. 

“Having supportive coaches, mentors, teammates, business partners, family, and friends’ makes a huge difference when you’re trying to pursue anything at a high level.”

Having an identity outside of volleyball and B.A.L.A is what helps her avoid burnout and keeps everything in balance. Being strong in her faith, provides her with comfort to take risks, to grow and fail.

“Everyone is different, and finding the right balance is key to continuing to grow both as a competitor and as a person,” she said. 

The challenge of navigating uncertainty has provided opportunities for her to grow. 

“I’ve learned that you can’t control everything – and trying can become exhausting.”

Her advice to any athlete is to get outside your comfort zone. 

“Stay curious, and take advantage of the opportunities already around,” she said. “Some of the best opportunities come from being authentic.”

Sport has given O’Dea discipline, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure. B.A.L.A Academy has given perspective, community, and the opportunity to help younger athletes navigate their own journeys.