Getting The Ball Rolling For Uni Games
Social media team reporter Hannah Sbeghen looks into the logistics of the annual University Games and finds out why it’s better to get into action sooner rather than later.
Griffith University students have choices beyond their favourite sports at this year’s Northern University Games. Sports of all sorts are calling for players.
The University Games are held every July and in 2015 are heading to Toowoomba, the Darling Downs hub that will welcome thousands of Queensland and northern NSW university and TAFE students for an epic week of competition, social events, new and renewed friendships.
With July fast approaching, Sport Development Officer Sarah Wymer says Griffith Sport is busily seeking students to join various teams and ensure sports aren’t scrapped or teams fold before the tournament even begins.
“No events are in danger of being dropped at the moment, because teams are still in the process of coming together,” says Sarah.
“However, we are in need of players for sports such as women’s hockey and men’s and women’s soccer and we are really pushing for teams for ten pin bowling and lawn bowls. Even sports like netball and basketball have room.”
To get involved visit – griffith.edu.au/sport/play-sport/university-games
Griffith Sport recruits sports leaders
For these Uni Games, Griffith Sport has for the first time engaged student leaders to run particular sports. As previous participants, they understand that the Uni Games combination of competition and fun cannot occur without proper organisation.
Sam Yip is one of them. Accustomed to running sports trials and promotions for touch football, the second year business student has responsibility for the Griffith touch teams.
Despite healthy participation numbers so far, Sam says teams are still to be named and there is still room for students to join.
“We plan on having teams with up to 12 players, if possible. Even though there are only six on the field at any one time, when you are playing three games a day it does get tiring,” he says.
Sam understands students are busy with assessments and assignments, but says that if you can make time for the Uni Games, the experience is worthwhile and memorable.
With 15 sports on offer, including more unconventional pursuits such as Frisbee, Sarah Wymer says Griffith Sport attracts a range of students, from introverts to social butterflies.
“It’s common for students to message Griffith Sport on Facebook or email me to get involved,” says Sarah.
“Some may not be so engaged in the social side of university life, but they still come along and compete at Uni Games.
“And that’s great because the event offers social programs where you don’t have to be out partying every night. There are options catering for everyone.
“People go to Uni Games for different reasons. Some are in it for the gold medal and some just for the social side. It’s a diverse and different experience for everyone and that’s why we encourage as many people as possible to take part.”
That being said, there are costs involved with the University Games. The fee for Toowoomba is $350, which accounts for accommodation, team dinners, merchandise, insurance and a $100 refundable bond. Australian University Sport also requires $160 for registration fees and closing ceremony costs.
Worth the money? Sarah says yes, citing her own University Games experience as proof.
“I participated in Uni Games in New Zealand back in 2008 and I’m still close to people I met during that week away playing sport.
“That’s the great thing about the Uni Games. You go away for a week of sport and come back with friends you’ve made for life.”
For more info on Uni Games visit http://www.unisport.com.au/NUG/Pages/Home.aspx
Or to get involved check out http://www.griffith.edu.au/sport/play-sport/university-games and email Sport development officer Sarah Wymer [email protected]
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