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ROAR
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS | susf.com.au
38
AUTUMN
2018
06/ EXERCISE AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
5 ways exercise can boost your brainpower
14/ (MEAL) PREP YOURSELF FOR 2018
Why you should start preparing your meals at home
32/ TRAIN YOUR WAY
See inside SUSF’s brand new training zone
GAME ON NEWSBITES + HOME EVENTS + ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAM + CLUB NEWS + UNI PASS
Life gets busy. You become rushed and
pulled in too many directions, too often.
Remove the stress.
Re: sync Re: define
Re: surface Re: vitalise Re: energise Re: focus
Re: invigorate Re: set Re: lease
WHAT’S INSIDE...
MEMBER MEETS
38
AUTUMN
We chat with Thomas Dillon on overcoming injury
to compete in Australia’s most prestigious yacht race.
By Susannah Walmsley
05
2018
FROM THE EDITOR EDITOR
Laura Hanlon
EXERCISE & ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
The benefits of adding physical activity to your study routine.
By Aleksandra Pozder
06
DEPUTY EDITORS
Nicole Safi
Graham Croker
CREATIVE DESIGN
& PRODUCTION
IN THE MIX
Southern Design
to the Gold Coast for a roller coaster ride
like no other, the Commonwealth Games.
many directions each day but our staff
are here to help so you can reap the CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
University of Sydney athletes are pulling out all stops
as they strive for Commonwealth Games selection.
By Laura Hanlon
10
numerous, and sometimes overlooked, Graham Croker
Before going any further, I wish to firstly
benefits of physical activity. Harry Croker
thank our members for their patience and
understanding as our team worked hard On a personal note, I secretly hope Rachel Finch
to improve the Sports & Aquatic Centre SUSF will become (if it isn’t already) your Laura Hanlon
gym for you. The new functional training favourite place to be. Our community Aleksandra Pozder
(MEAL) PREP YOURSELF FOR 2018
zone is now open and includes a 17-metre is like no other and this time of year Nicole Safi
sled track, two TRX stations, fresh cardio
equipment and a Hammer Strength
is always special to me as I remember
joining in 2011 when I moved to Sydney
Susannah Walmsley
Why you should consider preparing more of your
meals at home and it’s easier than you think.
By Rachel Finch
14
CONTRIBUTING
HD Athletic 'Rig’ - head to page 32 for for my first year of study. The unique
PHOTOGRAPHERS
more on that if you haven’t already seen mix of members, variety of offers and
Aron Hailey
it for yourself! welcoming staff made SUSF a second
Geoff Tripp
home. This story rings true for many of
Next, I bid a huge welcome to our
WELCOME TO ISSUE 38 new and returning students, staff and
our members and with more space now SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS
ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAM: CLASS OF 2017
OF ROAR, THE FIRST community members from neighbouring
open, there’s room for plenty more to
move in. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Celebrating the success of academic athlete graduates.
By Laura Hanlon
18
EDITION FOR 2018. suburbs. Life gets busy and as we all Robert Smithies
come to grips with the university routine,
The New Year has charged out of office inbox jams or get back into study FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
the blocks and 2018 promises to be mode, I encourage you to walk through MANAGER
an exciting time at Sydney Uni Sport our doors and resync. Resurface from the Aleksandra Pozder
& Fitness (SUSF), with a major gym rush and use your time at our facilities for
HIGH PERFORMANCE MANAGER GROUP FITNESS GUIDE
extension complete, a new partnership you and nothing else. Finding balance Laura Hanlon
with sports apparel brand ISC and a trip is challenging when you’re pulled in so Editor Tristan Liles
Train as a team in SUSF’s state-of-the-art Group
Fitness facilities with some of Sydney’s best instructors.
By Nicole Safi
24
OPERATIONS &
INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGER
Ed Smith
ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAM
MANAGER
ROAR
| susf.com.au
STUDENTS TAKE PYEONGCHANG
& FITNESS
UNI SPORT
OF SYDNEY
L MAGAZINE
26
THE OFFICIA
Leonie Lum Four fly the Aussie flag at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games.
By Nicole Safi & Graham Croker
38
AUTUMN
2018 PROGRAMS & PARTICIPATION
38 EDITIONS
MANAGER
Melinda D’Arcy
06/ EXERC
ISE AND ACADE
5 ways exercis
14/ MEAL PREP
e can boost
Why you should
32/ TRAIN
YOURSELF
MIC ACHIE
your brainp
start prepar
YOUR WAY
GAME ON
See inside SUSF’s
FOR 2018
VEMENT
ower.
ing your meals
brand new
at home.
training zone.
+ ELITE ATHLET
E PROGRA
M + CLUB NEWS
+ UNI PASS
MAGAZINE YOUNG LEGAL & HUMAN
RESOURCES MANAGER
Natalie Brown
MARKETING &
THE REST
02 From the Editor
08 News Bites
09 Home Events Calendar
22
28
30
32
Athlete Interview: Dyone Bettega
Flames Season Wrap
Batter up: Cynics’ Tour a success
Train your way
16 Map Onwards & upwards
+ HOME EVENTS
36
NEWSBITES
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
20 Sydney Uni-Staminade set the pace 39 Join a Club
Laura Hanlon
2 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 3
ROAR | MEMBER MEETS By Susannah Walmsley
WHAT OUR
MEMBERS SAY
O DUC
TR IN
IN
G
MEMBER MEETS
“SUSF provides me with the opportunity to socialise with new and interesting people
that share interests similar to mine. It also has many clubs that I have taken part in
H
T
that really add to my university experience.” O N
MA O
S DILL
“The classes and trainers are so wonderful! I like that there are multiple options,
and always an incentive to come back and do more.”
“I love the group fitness classes. The trainers motivate me to push harder and become
the best version of myself.”
Sydney Uni Sport and Fitness (SUSF) member,
Thomas Dillon, has competed in Australia’s most
“SUSF provides a complete range of facilities, activities and support across age prestigious yacht race. Susannah Walmsley sat down
with him to discuss training, injuries and “the race.”
groups, fitness levels and interests at competitive pricing.”
What brought you to SUSF?
I started coming to the gym here in 2016. I was living in
Sydney and had received a fitness passport through work.
“I enjoy the variety of classes and that I can also do my own thing in the gym and With the passport we had the option to try a number of
alternate between the two locations depending on where my classes are at the Uni. gyms and SUSF was on the list.
Gives a great break in my day and all the facilities are close by.” Prior to joining I had done a sailing event up at the
Whitsundays and injured my back. I had been going to the
Physio for a while and decided I needed to do something
to strengthen my body, so I thought I would give it a try.
“I like the friendliness of the staff and the wide range of facilities - I am always able
to find what I need and get advice without feeling intimidated or out of place.” How do you approach training at SUSF?
I mostly do strength training at the gym.
Before I came to SUSF, along with sailing, I had played
Sydney to Hobart race twice with two very different results.
a lot of different sports but had never really done weights.
The first year I did the race, in 2016, we finished which was
“I love that the gym has everything I need in one place - great facilities, super friendly When I first joined I was pretty new to it all.
a great achievement.
staff and awesome classes!” Initially I had a program written for me and Lou Lou,
However, last year we had to retire with steering damage
one of the trainers here, really helped me out with that
half way across the Bass Strait. That was pretty disappointing.
and I continue to work with her.
Was there any specific training required before
What keeps you coming back?
competing the race?
“I enjoy that I can diversify my workout each day. Whether I want to swim, Injury prevention has been a big thing for me. The more
A lot of the preparation is time on the boat with the crew. With
take a class or workout in the gym I have the options available.” I worked on my strength and core training, the less I was
12 of us on the boat it requires a lot of team work and we need
getting injured and as a result I haven’t had to go to the
to be in sync. Although you can improve your individual skills,
physio near as much as I used to, especially after regattas.
like most sports, it all comes down to how you work together.
What is the longest/toughest race you have competed in?
What kind of challenges have you had to face in Sailing?
Definitely the Sydney to Hobart. It’s just over 638 nautical miles
“The Ledge climbing centre has some of the best indoor climbing routes in Sydney!” This year preparing for the Sydney to Hobart was a big
and can come with some pretty tough racing conditions.
learning curve. The crew only came together in July, so getting
How was that experience sailing in such a high profile everyone up to speed and working together was challenging
and challenging race? but rewarding. There are also a lot of factors you can’t really
I’ve traditionally grown up sailing much smaller boats so going control when sailing, such as the weather and equipment
“SUSF offers facilities, programs and staff that transform lives.” into the big boat world was a huge change. I have done the failure which can be frustrating, but it’s all part of the sport.
4 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 5
ROAR | LIFESTYLE By Aleksandra
By Nicole
Pozder
Safi
Exercise and
academic
achievement
WE ALL KNOW THAT EXERCISE HAS Think ahead – what free time do you have before or after lectures? MEMORY other areas of the student’s life even after they leave university.
It doesn’t have to be at the crack of dawn or after a long day. It should also be noted that regular physical exercise improves Student athletes have competing demands on their time
NUMEROUS BENEFITS ON OUR PHYSICAL
There are several key benefits that regular exercise will have memory while enhancing our ability to learn5. When we need requiring strict planning and dedication. Even so, these
AND MENTAL HEALTH. HOWEVER, THERE ARE on your study: to study for exams, there is much to learn. However, faced with students are used to various pressures and the need to plan
ALSO SIGNIFICANT BENEFITS THAT EXERCISE FOCUS
so much to do, our memory may not be able to function at its effectively but also perform on-and-off the field. They have
optimal capacity. Sport and exercise are proven to help clear
HAS ON OUR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE, It has been shown that exercise is very effective in the way that high expectations of themselves in their sporting pursuits
your mind and enhance your memory function leaving you
it can restore your focus while improving your memory leading but also doing well academically.
WRITES ALEKSANDRA POZDER. better able to prepare for the important exams and to recall
to better academic results. Moreover, it can clear your mind and the necessary information when needed. So, when’s the perfect time to fit exercise in? Right now.
University students lead very busy lives with the need to help you to de-stress. This will likely assist in motivating you to
balance study, work and a social life. There is so much to fit do your study and to in fact have a very productive study session. LIFE SKILLS Endnotes
into one day and more often than not it is the exercise that Sports participation provides invaluable skills of a strong work 1. J enna B. Gillen, Brian J. Martin, Martin J. MacInnis, Lauren E. Skelly, Mark A.
ANXIETY Tarnopolsky, Martin J. Gibala, Twelve Weeks of Sprint Interval Training Improves
gets cut out. But as we will see scheduling even shorter ethic, respect for authority and perseverance that will enhance Indices of Cardiometabolic Health Similar to Traditional Endurance Training
We all know the pressure of study. If not addressed, this pressure your capacity to strive for the best results6. These are essential
exercise on a daily basis has far reaching positive effects. despite a Five-Fold Lower Exercise Volume and Time Commitment, Public
can snowball and lead to serious detrimental effects on our skills that will not only improve your study experiences but Library of Science One, 2016.
We all know that research has linked exercise and physical health
health as well as academic performance3. Exercise can be used also prepare you for life after university where you will be able 2. R
oman-Fulks JJ1, Berman ME, Rabian BA, Webster MJ, Effects of aerobic
but only in recent times more research has been carried out to exercise on anxiety sensitivity, Behaviour Research and Therapy, 2004
as a tool to combat anxiety, allowing you to focus on your studies to succeed in your career and deal with the challenges more
demonstrate the benefits of exercise on our mental health and 3. G
riffin ÉW1, Mullally S, Foley C, Warmington SA, O'Mara SM, Kelly AM,
more clearly and also maintain a sense of well-being. powerfully and effectively.
in particular how it can help university students get ahead. Aerobic exercise improves hippocampal function and increases BDNF in
COGNITIVE FUNCTION In addition to all of the above, evidence has shown that sport the serum of young adult males, Physiology Behaviour, 2011.
Although longer exercise is widely popularised, benefits of
and exercise will provide excellent support for academic study7. 4. E
rickson KI1, Voss MW, Prakash RS, Basak C, Szabo A, Chaddock L, Kim JS,
shorter bursts cannot be discounted. It has been said that Regular exercise has also been shown to improve cognitive Heo S, Alves H, White SM, Wojcicki TR, Mailey E, Vieira VJ, Martin SA, Pence
shorter physical exercise of 30 minutes per day will yield significant function, decision making, stimulate clearer thinking, and For example, students will perform well academically and BD, Woods JA, McAuley E, Kramer AF, Exercise training increases size of
health benefits1. However, you need to engage in a vigorous enhance learning4. When we are faced with so much to do, contribute to their university’s reputation and brand compared hippocampus and improves memory, Proceedings of the National Academy
to other institutions. of Sciences of the United States of America, 2011.
sporting activity that will increase your heart rate in order to derive it may be difficult to come up with creative solutions to our
5. A
ndrew J Miracle Junior, C Roger Lees, Lessons of the Locker Room:
these health benefits. To ensure consistent results it is essential problems. However, following the exercise session, your It’s clear that participation in sport and exercise has far reaching The Myth of School Sports, Prometheus Books, 1994.
to plan ahead and schedule various types of sporting activities in cognitive function will be enhanced leaving you able to solve effects well outside the sporting arena, providing invaluable skills 6. R
yan Yeung, Athletics, Athletic Leadership, and Academic Achievement,
your calendar at the beginning of your academic year – that’s now! problems that would have otherwise seemed challenging. and experiences where standards of excellence are upheld in all Education and Urban Society, 2013.
6 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 7
ROAR | IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
W E AR E LI O N S, R OA R WI T H U S .
NEWS BITES
Happy to be Blue: Two of Sydney University Sport’s
long-term Australian representatives were named the
HOME EVENTS CALENDAR
2017 Female and Male Blues of the Year at the annual
awards dinner held in MacLaurin Hall. Belinda Snell, who For all the latest event news and reviews visit: www.susf.com.au
has been a member of the Australian women’s basketball
team, the Opals, since 2003, and Nick Phipps, who has
M A R CH
58 rugby union Test caps for the Wallabies, were among
22 sportsmen and women to receive their Blues for 2017. DATE TIME SPORT GAME LOCATION
Snell, the Female Blue of the Year, first played for the
Sydney Uni Flames in the 2004-05 Women’s National 03.03.18 10:30am Cricket Sydney University v Bankstown Sydney University Oval
Basketball League season when she was named in the
25.03.18 2:00pm Water Polo Sydney University v Adelaide Jets (W) Peter Montgomery Pool
WNBL’s All-Star Five. She returned for the 2016-17
season to captain the Flames to their first WNBL title.
25.03.18 3:15pm Water Polo Sydney University v Adelaide Jets (M) Peter Montgomery Pool
A Graduate Certificate in Educational Studies (Sports
Coaching) student, Snell is aiming for a recall to the A P R IL
Opals for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
07.04.18 TBA Rugby Union Sydney University v Parramatta Sydney University Football Ground
Halfback Phipps is a product of Sydney University
Football Club’s Colts production line and was a member won silver at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
14.04.18 12:00pm AFL Sydney University v Redland Henson Park
of the 2009 and 2010 Shute Shield premiership teams. He made his Wallabies debut in 2011 against Samoa
He debuted on the international stage as part of the and landed a spot in the side for that year’s Rugby 14.04.18 2:00pm Water Polo Sydney University v UTS Balmain Tigers (W) Peter Montgomery Pool
Australian Sevens side at the 2009-10 Sevens World World Cup. Phipps is a Master of International Business
Series and was part of the Australian Sevens side that student, having previously completed a Bachelor 14.04.18 3:15pm Water Polo Sydney University v UTS Balmain Tigers (M) Peter Montgomery Pool
of Business at UTS.
21.04.18 TBA Rugby Union Sydney University v West Harbour Sydney University Football Ground
21.04.18 2:00pm Water Polo Sydney University v UNSW Wests (W) Peter Montgomery Pool
21.04.18 3:15pm Water Polo Sydney University v UNSW Wests (M) Peter Montgomery Pool
22.04.18 2:00pm Water Polo Sydney University v Drummoyne Devils (W) Peter Montgomery Pool
22.04.18 3:15pm Water Polo Sydney University v Drummoyne Devils (M) Peter Montgomery Pool
Rugby Athletics 27.04.18 7:00pm Water Polo Sydney University v Adelaide Jets (W) Peter Montgomery Pool
27.04.18 8:15pm Water Polo Sydney University v Adelaide Jets (M) Peter Montgomery Pool
Jenkins calls time: A shoulder injury has forced Sydney University Running hot: Sydney University Athletics Club amassed an
Football Club’s Australian Rugby Sevens representative Ed Jenkins incredible 21 Gold, 4 Silver and 9 Bronze medals at the 2018
28.04.18 12:00pm AFL Sydney University v Southport Henson Park
NSW Track & Field Championships, a record medal haul for
to retire from the game. Jenkins first lined up in the Australian
the Club. It was the best state championship performance by
Sevens ranks in 2008 and went on to captain his country at the 28.04.18 TBA Rugby Union Sydney University v Northern Suburbs Sydney University Football Ground
SUAC's athletes in the club's 139 year history and a record in
2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games when Sevens became an
club participation numbers.
Olympic sport for the first time. Along the way he became the 29.04.18 2:00pm Water Polo Sydney University v Hunter Hurricanes (W) Peter Montgomery Pool
Basketball
first and only Australian to notch 50 Sevens caps, when he ran
29.04.18 3:15pm Water Polo Sydney University v Hunter Hurricanes (M) Peter Montgomery Pool
out in the Hong Kong leg of the World Sevens last year.
Jenkins, 31, retires with 547 points from 52 tournament
Another two seasons: Cheryl Chambers has re-signed as
M AY
appearances over a 10-year career that includes a Commonwealth
Games silver medal from Delhi in 2010 and a bronze medal head coach of the Brydens Sydney Uni Flames announced
12.05.18 12:00pm AFL Sydney University v Canberra BISP
from Glasgow four years later. for another two WNBL seasons. In her inaugural season at the
Club in 2016/17, Chambers led the Flames to an elusive WNBL
After six seasons at the helm, Jenkins stepped down from 12.05.18 TBA Rugby Union Sydney University v Manly Sydney University Football Ground
Championship, their first in 16 years. Building team chemistry and
leadership duties ahead of the 2016-17 Sevens World Series creating a strong Club culture has been integral to the Flames
26.05.18 12:00pm AFL Sydney University v NT BISP
to allow a new generation to be ushered in. He is mooted success over the past two seasons, with Chambers making this a
to be taking up a post-Rugby role within Rugby Australia’s priority. Chambers will also have a huge role in the future of the
26.05.18 TBA Rugby Union Sydney University v Southern Districts Sydney University Football Ground
administration. Opals heading to the Commonwealth Games as assistant coach.
8 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 9
ROAR | COVER STORY By Laura Hanlon
In the
mix
IT’S ‘GAME ON’ AS LAURA HANLON
PROFILES SOME OF THE TOP UNIVERSITY
OF SYDNEY ATHLETES WHO MAY WELL
BE FLYING THE AUSSIE FLAG AT
THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES.
10 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 11
ROAR | COVER STORY By Laura Hanlon
reached the quarter-finals at ROHAN BROWNING | ATHLETICS
Glasgow in 2014. Townsend, SUAC has a great history of producing ‘fast as the wind’
who will turn 25 years old during sprinters and excitement is building that we have another
the Commonwealth Games, first 100m and 200m speed demon in Rohan Browning. Browning is
started playing table tennis as a part of a wave of male sprinters, including Jack Hale and Trae
five-year-old, with both parents Williams, and is glad for the competition and comradery. Fellow
playing at the national level and SUAC sprinter Josh Clarke is also well and truly in the mix. As
starting a table tennis club when at February 5, 2018, Browning had posted the fastest Australian
he was four. If that isn’t enough 100m qualifying time, running a blistering 10.19 in Brisbane
table tennis DNA in one family, last December. Browning then took out the ACT 100m Men’s
Townsend’s older brother Wade Championship in January, in a major showdown with Hale and
is also one of Australia’s leading Williams. In a photo finish Browning was awarded the title,
competitors. More than ably clocking 10.225. If Browning continues to progress an individual
juggling academic pursuit with berth at the Games is well within his grasp.
sport, Townsend was jointly awarded While we have only been able to feature a handful of 2018
the USYD School of Mathematics and Statistics, Commonwealth Games hopefuls, we are upbeat that a large
George Allen Scholarship for Pure Mathematics. contingent of University of Sydney sports stars will be selected
for our country in a number of sports. Please join us in wishing
ANNELIESE RUBIE | ATHLETICS
the very best to all contenders in their final preparations and
With a Rio Olympics (individual semi-finalist and relay finalist)
for selection.
in the women’s 400m, plus three World Championships and
the 2014 Commonwealth Games listed among her extensive
sporting achievements, it’s safe to say Anneliese (Annie) Rubie
knows her way round an athletics track. Having a serious tilt
at the 800m distance in recent times, Rubie should have the
WHEN MOST OF US THINK OF THE GOLD COAST hurdles as he achieved a number of Qualifying Commonwealth speed and strength to carry her right to the Gold Coast finish
Did you
WE PICTURE THE BEACH, GREAT WEATHER Games times with a succession of barnstorming runs on the line of the 400m in the green and gold. Regularly supported
European summer circuit. A likeable and imposing figure on by family at Athletics NSW meets, Rubie is another committed
AND THEME PARKS. THIS ARTICLE ISN’T ABOUT
the track, standing 191cm, Hough graduated with a Bachelor SUAC member always ready to front up for her club. Knocking
MOST OF US THOUGH, IT’S ABOUT UNIVERSITY of Information Technology (Honours) from Sydney University on the Gold Coast selection door, Rubie ripped out a 52.17
OF SYDNEY ATHLETES WHO ARE FINALISING in 2017. Hough placed 4th in the 100m Hurdles final at the in Sydney on December 16, 2017, an agonising seven-one-
Know
THEIR SELECTION BEFORE BOOKING THEIR Glasgow Commonwealth Games and would like nothing hundredths of one-second off an A qualifying time. Graduating
COMMONWEALTH GAMES TICKET UP NORTH. better than to stand on the podium at the Gold Coast. with a Bachelor of Arts at Sydney University last year, Rubie is a
MICHELLE JENNEKE | ATHLETICS hugely popular and humble athlete with a steely inner drive.
The 21st Commonwealth Games are almost upon us, with the
Opening Ceremony set for April 4, 2018. University of Sydney Fearless and fun-loving both describe Michelle Jenneke who BELINDA SNELL | BASKETBALL
athletes are pulling out all stops as they strive for peak form and is vying for selection in the notoriously technical 100m Hurdles.
Current Captain of the Brydens Sydney Uni Flames and
selection for what is a rare and exciting opportunity to perform Studying a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics at Sydney
long-term Australian women’s basketball star, Belinda Snell
before huge home crowds at a major international competition. University, Jenneke rose to prominence through silver at Australia has been represented at all 20
is hoping to make the Opals team for the Commonwealth
the 2010 Youth Olympics where so many current SUAC stars Commonwealth Games contested prior to 2018
This will be only the fifth time Australia has hosted this prestigious Games. While the final squad selection is still to play out, Snell,
achieved their first international selection, followed by 5th at and is the top nation on the all-time medal tally
multi-sport event since its inception in 1930, then known as the along with fellow Flames playmaker Katie-Rae Ebzery has been
the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and two subsequent with 2,218 medals, ahead of England on 2,008,
Empire Games. It is mind-boggling to reflect on the fact that one selected for the Opals first training camp in February. A guard
World Championship semi-final appearances. Jenneke has an followed by Canada, India, New Zealand and
of our finest athletes Belinda Snell, Captain of the Brydens Sydney and forward, Snell is a bona-fide legend of Australian women’s South Africa. The Games have also proven a
A-qualifying time under the magic 13 seconds and sits second
Uni Flames women’s basketball team, competed in Melbourne basketball. You couldn’t meet a more humble and chilled happy-hunting ground for Sydney University
behind Sally Pearson in the qualification period. Current SUAC
2006 and is hell bent on selection in 2018, 12 years on. person off the court but come game time she is all business representatives. A record 17 academic-athletes
team captain, Jenneke is a star performer off the track too with
As a preview, we cast our eye over some of the Sydney Uni with a level of competitiveness only found among the best competed at the last Games in Glasgow four
her vivacious personality, passion and generosity, using her
Sport & Fitness (SUSF) athletes daring to fulfil their dreams of the best. Snell was born in the year the Women’s National years ago.
profile to help various charities and causes.
as part of the mighty Australian team. Basketball League (WNBL) was formed and while unknown at
KANE TOWNSEND | TABLE TENNIS the time this was a clear pointer to her destiny. Snell surged Seven Sydney University athletes competed
NICHOLAS HOUGH | ATHLETICS Attack and if that doesn’t work, attack some more is a great to prominence as part of the WNBL Championship AIS team with distinction at Delhi in 2010, picking up five
Sydney University Athletics Club (SUAC) 2017 Athlete of the motto for an elite Table Tennis player and Kane Townsend in 1998-99, alongside such luminaries as Lauren Jackson, gold, seven silver and one bronze. On home soil
Year, Nick Hough, looks primed to do serious damage on the epitomises that approach and consistently so against top- Penny Taylor and Suzy Batkovic. Snell has done it all and more, in Melbourne 2006, Sydney University’s seven
Gold Coast in the 110m hurdles. At 16 years of age Hough flight competitors. Not a probable, Townsend is selected in representing the Opals at the Olympics, Commonwealth Games Australian representatives came away with six
entered international competition with a bang at the 2010 the 12 member 2018 Commonwealth Games Australian Table and World Championships and was named the University of medals. Without doubt, the mix of training and
Youth Olympics, claiming gold in the 110m Hurdles. While Tennis Team on the strength of his results, particularly when Sydney Female Blue of the Year for 2017, as Captain of the study is a proven winner for our elite athletes.
just missing selection for Rio, Hough rebounded, making it mattered at the 2018 Australian Commonwealth Games Flames 2016-17 Championship side. Snell never backs away
the Australian team for the 2017 London Athletics World qualifying tournament on the Gold Coast in mid-January. No from a challenge, also completing a Graduate Certificate in
Championships. Indeed 2017 was Hough’s year in the high stranger to this level of tournament, the left-handed Townsend Educational Studies (Sports Coaching).
12 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 13
ROAR | NUTRITION By Rachel Finch
#Goals
Based on the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating,
healthy adults should aim for:
Vegetables & Legumes/Beans
Serves per day
(Meal) Prep Age 19-50 51-70 70 +
Yourself
Men 6 5½ 5
Women 5 5 5
Fruit
Serves per day
Age 19-50 51-70 70 +
for 2018
Men 2 2 2
Women 2 2 2
Grain (cereal) foods
Mostly wholegrain and/or high
cereal fibre varieties.
Serves per day
Age 19-50 51-70 70 +
Men 6 6 4½
Women 6 4 3
Lean meat & poultry
Including fish, eggs, tofu, nuts
and seeds, and legumes/beans.
Serves per day
When someone says ‘meal prep’, what comes to
mind? Chicken and broccoli? Body builders? Grocery Plastic or Styrofoam containers Tips & tricks Age
Men
19-50 51-70
3 2½
70 +
2½
Women 2½ 2 2
trips more painful than the first 5 minutes of cardio Napkins HOW YOU CAN:
after Christmas? Sure. But what about saving for a Plastic cutlery Cook what you love: Brainstorm meals that you like to eat, then list Milk, yoghurt, cheese
holiday? Or reducing your contribution to landfill? the ingredients (Google can help with recipes if cooking isn’t your & alternatives
Or protecting yourself from nutritional deficiencies? 1 plastic bag thing!). This becomes the basis of your shopping list. If the meals
Serves per day
1 can/glass/plastic bottle aren’t as healthy as you want them to be, jump online and add
There are plenty of reasons you should consider preparing Age 19-50 51-70 70 +
the word ‘healthy’ to your search for ideas on simple substitutes.
more of your meals at home and it’s easier than you think. Every year, it's estimated that between 4.8 and 12.7 tonnes of Men 2½ 2½ 3½
Remember, food should be enjoyable. If you don’t like what you’re
Move over doomsdayers, there’s a new team of preppers in plastic waste reaches the ocean worldwide1. Most plastic is not Women 2½ 4 4
eating, you’re less likely to stick with your new food prep habits.
town. And we have Tupperware. biodegradable and most takeaway packaging is not recyclable
(either due to food contamination or the quality of the plastic). Be prepared: Go grocery shopping regularly, choosing a wide
Benefits By reducing your take-away consumption, you reduce your variety of foods from the five food groups. To avoid food going These guidelines vary depending on health, age, gender,
contribution to landfill and oceanic pollution. off before you’ve had a chance to eat it, consider how you store pregnancy and activity level. Find the right numbers for you
and cook it. Why eat out when there’s a fridge full of fresh food at eatforhealth.gov.au or speak to an Accredited Practicing
WHY YOU SHOULD: Meet your needs (nutritional of course!)
waiting for you at home? Dietician for detailed nutritional and dietetic advice.
Put your money where your mouth is Instead of thinking of a food as good or bad, try considering the
Cook in bulk: One of the biggest challenges of meal prepping As we move into 2018, I challenge you to make a small
food in a functional way: ‘What is this apple going to do for me?’
The argument that take-away food is cheaper than buying is the time and energy it takes from your day. Utilise your time change to the way you eat, if not for your own health,
Heaps. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, fibre, carbohydrates – all
groceries is (sorry folks!) just plain wrong. Spending around then for the health of the environment (oh, and the health
components of a food that help to protect us from chronic disease more efficiently by preparing larger quantities of the same
$10-$15 on take-away food once or twice a day, 3-4 days a of your holiday fund!) Every meal you prep is a win.
and aid normal growth, development, maintenance and activity. meal. If you don’t like eating the same meal day in day out, try
week quickly adds up to more than a weekly grocery shop. Compare this to ‘What is this sausage roll going to do for me?’ planning variations of the same ingredients, e.g. a roast chicken Go forth and conquer preppers!
If you swapped just three of your weekly takeaway meals ‘… Well, it’s going to taste good, and…’. Yep, that’s about it. can go into sandwiches, salads, wraps and stir-fries. Rachel Finch is a Student Dietitian, Les Mills Group
for food that you prepared from home, you could save
Takeaway foods rarely help you meet your recommended number Storage is key: If you’re serious about meal prepping and Fitness Instructor and blogger at Resolve with Rachel.
around $30/week. That’s over $1,500 a year. Hello
of servings from each of the five food groups. Instead, they often time management, you can’t go past a good set of reusable, Website: resolvewithrachel.wixsite.com/resolve
European Contiki Tour 2019!
most strongly represent the discretionary food group e.g. saturated microwavable, dishwasher-friendly containers. Make sure you Instagram: @resolvewithrachel
Make your mark (by reducing your footprint!) fats, sugary foods, salty foods, processed foods. A multigrain get the BPA-free ones (glass containers are the best!) Pack your
Reference:
When you order a takeaway meal, you end up with sandwich with chicken, cheese and salad will tick off servings of lunches, dinners and snacks on a Sunday, and you’ll be ready 1
Jambeck, J.R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., Siegler, T.R., Perryman, M., Andrady, A., Narayan,
so much more than you bargained for: grains, protein, vegetables and dairy. Not bad for a humble sambo! to slide out the door every morning. R. and Law, K.L., 2015. Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Science, 347(6223),
pp.768-771.
14 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 15
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16 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 17
For the full range of membership passes, please turn to page 34, visit www.susf.com.au or call into one of our centres today.ROAR | FEATURE By Laura Hanlon
The Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness Elite Athlete 2. How has the Elite Athlete Program supported
Program prides itself on the success of its you in reaching this point of graduation?
athletes, assisting them to achieve a steady • T
he Elite Athlete Program really helped me throughout
balance between both sport and study. my degree when my soccer commitments clashed
with my university placements, classes and assessments.
In 2017, 62 members of the Elite Athlete Program made it
The alternative arrangements the program helped me to
to the finish line, armed with a world class tertiary education
organise made my degree a lot less stressful to complete.
combined with invaluable leadership qualities and industry Through their support I was able to achieve good marks
connections to help them build a successful career. and maintain a balance between my university and
From one finish line to the start of the next, we hit up three sporting commitments.
of the talented graduates to see where they’re headed:
3. What are your plans for next year?
Thomas Koerstz • N
ext year I plan to continue playing in the W-League and
I also hope to get a full time Occupational Therapy job in
1. Degree, sport: a hospital setting or in paediatrics.
• B
achelor of Agricultural Economics, Majoring in
4. Favourite quote you look to for inspiration?
Ag. Economics and A.g Science
• "Do more of what makes you happy."
• R
ugby Union
2. How has the Elite Athlete Program supported Jack Blair
you in reaching this point of graduation? 1. Degree, sport:
• T
he Elite Athlete Program played a major role in me • B
achelor of Science (Chemistry and Computer Science)
obtaining my degree. I would not have got through my and Master of Management
studies without the tutoring I received as well as the help
• R
ugby Union
and advice when it came to managing the demands of
assignments, classes and the rugby program. Furthermore, 2. How has the Elite Athlete Program supported
the ability to see dieticians, sports medicine professionals you in reaching this point of graduation?
and receive elite level coaching meant that I could focus • A
t the most basic level, the program has helped me
on my studies a lot more as all the on-and-off field stuff was financially, which has reduced the stress of living costs and
managed in terms of my footy. allowed me to focus more on my studies and my sport.
Beyond this, I have been provided with academic tutoring
3. What are your plans for next year? and incredible facilities that have undoubtedly had a huge
• U
nfortunately, I am currently returning from a torn ACL positive effect on my academic and sporting endeavours.
and spending plenty of time in rehab. However, I am Lastly, the community of staff and fellow student athletes has
planning to be back on the field playing rugby for the been an amazing thing to be a part of and will be something
students in mid-March or start of April which I am looking I treasure for the rest of my life.
2017
forward to after a long time off the paddock. In terms
3. What are your plans for next year?
of my career, I began working at GrainCorp in July after
• N
ext year I’ve managed to land a graduate job at Deloitte in
completing my studies and have recently moved into a
Enterprise Applications, where I hope to start a successful career
Domestic Road Planner which has been really enjoyable.
in consulting. However, for my sport next year I’m swapping
4. Favourite quote you look to for inspiration? codes to AFL and am hoping to get drafted at the end of 2018.
• "
My scars tell a story. They are a reminder of times when 4. Favourite quote you look to for inspiration?
life tried to break me, but failed.”
• “
The championships are almost secondary to the feeling
you’ll get from waking up every morning and putting in the
Rachael Soutar work. The championships are like when you were sitting in
class at UConn with your shirt and tie on. They’re just the
1. Degree, sport:
culmination. Your winding path to those moments, just
• B
achelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) like your walk across campus on that quiet fall morning in
• S
occer Connecticut, is where you will find happiness.” – Ray Allen
18 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 19ROAR | FEATURE By Laura Hanlon
SYDNEY UNI-STAMINADE
set the pace
OUR ELITE WOMEN’S CYCLING TEAM HAS
SCORCHED THE NATION’S ROADS TO SHOW
The team of Scott, Smith, Heffernan, Colligan, Ricardo and
Whitehouse rode with distinction. Following the Santos events
it was announced that equal prize money would be offered
"SYDNEY UNIVERSITY’S FEMALE CYCLING
THEY BELONG. LAURA HANLON PROVIDES A for both men and women, including the 2018 races, confirming TEAM MADE THEIR MARK IN THE 2018
WRAP OF THEIR FIRST SUMMER OF RACING. the global juggernaut that is women’s cycling and female sport
in general. AUSSIE SUMMER OF CYCLING."
With women’s sport going from strength to strength,
The next assignment for team Sydney Uni-Staminade was the
Sydney University’s female cycling team made their mark
63.6km Cadel Evans Great Ocean Race which kicked off with
in the 2018 Aussie Summer of Cycling.
the Towards Zero Melbourne criterium on a fast and flat Albert
The newly-assembled elite women’s cycling team, Sydney Park course. Whitehouse and Sneddon rode well to finish in
Uni-Staminade, contested four major cycling events during the top 30 in an 86-strong international field.
January, including the Cycling Australia Road National Two days later the Sydney University team lined up for the
Championships at Ballarat, the Santos Women’s Tour Down signature event, the Deakin Elite Women’s Road Race, UCI
Under, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Race, and the Deakin 1.1 over 113km. Whitehouse was on fire, going off the front
Elite Women’s Road Race. to lead only to suffer a rear puncture at the 41km mark.
Launched in December 2017, the Sydney Uni-Staminade team After running repairs she rejoined the race and, riding
is supported by the University of Sydney, Sydney Uni Sport alongside Italian Lisa Morzenti, they were finally caught
& Fitness, Sydney Uni Velo Club and naming rights sponsor, by the chasers.
Staminade, along with loyal sponsors Trek Bicycles and
Whitehouse picked up a swag of points in winning the hill
Park Bikes.
climb and intermediate sprints. She also finished second in the
The team was assembled to provide a development pathway, Mapei sprint classification and third in the Subaru Queen of the
including academic support, for female cyclists from club to Mountain. The Queen of the Mountain placing gave her some
the elite level. Sydney University is committed to creating serious bragging rights as it was the first time the women’s
a sustainable NSW-based race team for some of the most course included the Challambra Climb, a notoriously steep
promising riders in the state. and winding ascent.
When you are invited to compete at Union Cyclisite All six Sydney Uni-Staminade riders finished the challenging
Internationale (UCI) rated events you need to turn up making race, testimony to their preparation and strong team culture.
a statement. To that end, the team wished to make a splash
Fellow Sydney Uni Velo Club rider, Rio Olympian Rachel
and they did. While most of the events they competed in have
Neylan, finished 21st in the leading pack as part of the
six-member teams, it is vital to have depth to cover injury
Mitchelton-Scott team. Neylan was the inaugural winner
and unavailability so Sydney Uni-Staminade boasts a dynamic
of the Cadel Evan’s Women’s Ocean Race in 2015.
10-rider roster which includes Abby Sneddon, Amy Vesty,
Angela Smith, Chloe Heffernan, Emma Roberts, Emily Watts, Sydney Uni-Staminade finished off a busy January by entering
Georgia Whitehouse, Gina Ricardo, Jade Colligan and the 2018 Jayco Women’s Herald Sun Tour, the first time
Megan Scott. women’s teams have been included.
The team saw non-stop action throughout January starting with The team has big plans for 2018, including Cycling Australia’s
the Cycling Australia Road National Championships at Ballarat. revamped National Road Series beginning in August, which will
Just days later they took on the Santos Women’s Tour Down feature a series of tours, criteriums and classics, plus targeting
Under. They were one of six Australian teams in a 17-strong some races in the US in June and July.
international field. Look for them flashing by.
20 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 21ROAR | ATHLETE INTERVIEW By Nicole Safi
"22/10/17 IS A DATE I WILL REMEMBER FOR A
LONG TIME. OUR METICULOUS PREPARATION
COUPLED WITH GREAT COACHING AND TEAM
COHESION WERE THE KEY INGREDIENTS OF
THIS HISTORIC VICTORY."
WHEN DID YOU FIRST GET INTO ROWING? TELL US A BIT ABOUT BEING A MEMBER OF SUBC…
I first started rowing in year 7 at PLC Sydney. Rowing really SUBC is a club built on the key values of hard work, support,
interested me because of how different it was to the ball friendship, opportunity and integrity. Furthermore, the club
sports I played growing up – the equipment and technology, breeds a very inclusive culture and we strive to always
not to mention the incredibly precise technique required welcome new members and instil in them the same passion
for one stroke was a new experience for me. for the sport that we have. It is incredible to be a member of
such a cohesive and fun squad.
WHAT MADE YOU STICK WITH THE SPORT?
WHAT HAS BEEN THE IMPACT OF SUBC'S NEW
I stuck with rowing because I immediately fell in love with
THYNE REID BOAT SHED?
the intensity of the sport. By ‘intensity’, I don’t just mean
gruelling sessions spent exploring the depths of the pain Following the recent amalgamation of the men’s and
women’s rowing clubs, the Thyne Reid Boat Shed has further
cave, but also the intensity of the friendships, comradery
strengthened the bond and spirit among the athletes. The
and spirit within a squad.
club’s achievements in 2017 are a testament to the unity and
FAVOURITE PART OF ROWING? pride the shed has brought.
Although I enjoy testing my physical boundaries, I love the
WHAT WAS IT LIKE CAPTAINING THE WOMEN’S
mental challenge that each training session presents. Whether EIGHT TO VICTORY AT THE AUSTRALIAN BOAT RACE?
it is to condition my body to maintain a faster speed on the
22/10/17 is a date I will remember for a long time. Our meticulous
erg than I’ve done previously or mentally rehearse races in
preparation coupled with great coaching and team cohesion
order to remain calm in any situation. were the key ingredients of this historic victory. After a very
HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR TRAINING tight start, our composure, determination and trust in one
SCHEDULE WITH STUDY AND A SOCIAL LIFE? another allowed us to pull away from the opposition and
It is challenging to balance sport and study especially when progressively gain clear water. It was so humbling to have
BEYOND THE BOAT WITH training upwards of 12 times a week; however, I’ve always
led such an incredibly talented team and I couldn’t be more
Dyone Bettega
proud of our achievement.
believed that sport and study go hand-in-hand. Rowing has
taught me key values such as discipline, perseverance and AND THEN TWO MONTHS LATER, YOU WERE
motivation all of which are valuable skills that are transferable AWARDED A SYDNEY UNIVERSITY BLUE...
to the classroom and more generally, life. As for maintaining I feel so privileged to be part of the Blues tradition that
a social life, I have met amazing friends at Sydney University recognises high achieving student athletes. This was made
Boat Club (SUBC) and I feel so grateful that I get to see them possible by the great program and support offered by
and train alongside them everyday. My family and friends everyone at SUBC and the Elite Athlete Program. It was such
outside of rowing are very understanding of my commitment an honour to be presented my blue by David Mortimer and
I T WA S A B I G 2 0 1 7 F O R SY D N E Y U N I V E R S I T Y to the sport but I still try to meet up with them as often as I can. also share it with four other rowers from the club.
B O AT C L U B ' S D Y O N E B E T T E G A , L E A D I N G T H E HOW DOES BEING A MEMBER OF THE ELITE ATHLETE WHAT’S ON THE CARDS FOR 2018?
PROGRAM ASSIST IN MAINTAINING THIS BALANCE? This year, my pair partner and I will be training towards
W O M E N ' S E I G H T T O V I C T O R Y AT T H E A U S T R A L I A N The Elite Athlete Program provides me with the support I selection trials for the U23 Australian team. I am also
need to achieve my academic and sporting goals. For example, encouraged that SUBC will continue to produce great
B O AT R A C E A N D B E I N G A W A R D E D A S Y D N E Y Elite Athlete Program staff are incredibly available to help results at the State and National Championships as well
as the 2018 AUS Nationals and Australian Boat Race
U N I V E R S I T Y B LU E . W E C AU G H T U P W I T H DYO N E athletes submit timetable requests to accommodate training
towards the end of the year.
and university as well as providing us with tutors if classes are
T O D I S C U S S W H AT ' S I N S T O R E F O R 2 0 1 8 . missed due to regattas. On top of all this, being a member of WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
the Elite Athlete Program means we get access to fantastic I want to maintain my passion and dedication to rowing,
facilities such as the David Mortimer High Performance Gym complete my bachelor degree and return for postgraduate
and Sports & Aquatic Centre as well as field professionals study. Above all, I am determined to reach the highest
such as dieticians and psychologists. competitive level that my physicality and mentality will take me.
22 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 23ROAR | FEATURE By Nicole Safi
GROUP FITNESS GUIDE
Whatever you want to achieve, there is a class for you.
Train as a team in SUSF’s state-of-the-art
Group Fitness facilities with some of
Sydney’s best instructors. You’ll meet
people, learn how to exercise and get
addicted to fitness.
BODYPUMP
The original weight-lifting workout that gets you lean,
toned, strong and fit, fast.
BODYATTACK
The high-energy, sports-inspired workout that improves
your strength, stamina, coordination and agility.
RPM
The cycling inspired, low-impact workout that gets you
super fit, where you control the intensity.
CXWORX
The results-driven core workout that builds your functional
strength and aids in prevention... in only 30 minutes!
BODYBALANCE
The yoga-based class that improves your strength, flexibility,
focus and wellbeing.
HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING (HIIT) will be down on the floor with you, motivating you to go
BODYCOMBAT High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) involves short bursts harder to get fit, fast.
The high-energy martial-arts inspired workout that works of intense exercise, followed by short recoveries, for a GRIT STRENGTH
your legs, tones your arms, back and shoulders and provides period of 30-45 minutes. The benefits? Uses barbell, plate and bodyweight exercises, focussing on range
phenomenal core training. and load to increase your strength and build lean muscle mass.
• R
apidly improve your cardiovascular fitness
SH’BAM • Build lean muscle mass and train your body to burn fat GRIT CARDIO
The insanely addictive dance party workout that’s so much fun, • Burn calories for hours after your workout Incorporates running, jumping and bodyweight exercises,
you’ll forget you’re exercising. focussing on speed and agility to drive your cardiovascular
• Accelerate changes in strength and power
BODYSTEP ATHLETIC fitness and burn fat.
• Push your mental and physical limits
The step-based cardio workout that sharpens your GRIT PLYO
• Achieve maximum performance in minimal time
coordination, agility and cardio fitness and tones and shapes Utilises propulsive movements using a step and a weight
your butt and legs. LES MILLS SPRINT plate, focussing on explosive power to accelerate your athletic
LES MILLS SPRINT™ is a 30-minute HIIT workout, using performance and improve your cardiovascular capacity.
YOGA
an indoor bike to achieve fast results. It’s short, low-impact
Slow and gentle movements to deepen body awareness, enhance HIIT BOXING
but intense, guaranteed to push you to your limits.
posture, increase flexibility and balance, and relieve stress. HIIT Boxing uses evidence-based interval protocols to help
The payoff? You smash your fitness goals, fast.
We offer Flow, Hatha and Japanese Yoga. you torch as many calories as possible in 45 minutes.
PILATES LES MILLS GRIT Designed by SUSF’s Exercise Physiology team and run by SUSF’s
Teaching balance and control of the body, Pilates yields numerous Grit is a 30-minute workout that takes cutting edge HIIT and fittest gym staff, get ready to realise your fitness potential.
benefits such as flexibility and strength, particularly of the core. combines it with powerful music and inspirational coaches who Visit www.susf.com.au for more on our Group Fitness program.
24 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 25ROAR | FEATURE By Nicole Safi and Graham Croker
S TU DENTS TA K E
PyeongChang
The Un ive rsity of Syd n e y Madii, a Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise & Sport
Science) ranked 15th in her first moguls qualifying run and
wa s we ll-re pre se nte d at 10th in the second run to qualify for the final where she
the 2018 Pye ongC ha n g Winte r finished 20th with a score of 68.19.
Madii’s two Australian teammates, Jakara Anthony (75.35)
Olympic Ga me s by stud e n ts and Britteny Cox (75.08) finished fourth and fifth respectively.
Holly Crawford, Madii Himbury, James, a Bachelor of Commerce student, began freestyle
Ja me s Mathe son a n d a lumna skiing in 2004 and first emerged on the international moguls
scene in 2010 when he qualified for the Europa Cup as a
A ime e Watson . 15-year-old.
The four snow sports athletes were part of the 51-strong The following year he was crowned the under-19 Australian
Australian Olympic Team, with Madii and James among moguls champion. In the 2017-18 World Cup season James
the team’s 20 first-time Winter Olympians. recorded a personal best result at the first Thaiwoo World
Cup, placing seventh and one place off qualifying for his
Holly, a Master of Project Management student, made her
first Super Final.
fourth Winter Olympic appearance, having made her debut
at the Torino Games in 2006, where she finished 18th in the At PyeongChang he was ranked 10th after his first two
snowboard halfpipe. She moved up the standings at the qualifying runs with scores of 72.27 and 74.61. He improved
2010 Vancouver Games, finishing eighth in the same event. on those runs with a score of 75.98 in the first final, but finished
15th to miss out on the second.
She was on song for a podium finish at the 2014 Sochi Games
after finishing with a silver medal at the Olympic test event Australia’s Matt Graham won the silver medal, Australia’s first
but a crash three weeks before the Games left her with wrist, of the games, with a score of 82.57.
rib cartilage and knee injuries (as told to a stunned audience
when she received a University Blue last year). Aimee, an Elite Athlete Program alumna and Sydney University
graduate (Bachelor of Veterinary Science, 2011), finished
She missed out on a medal at PyeongChang after finishing 58th in the Ladies’ Sprint Classic qualifying run (3:44.87),
10th in her first qualification run and 20th in her second run. 36.13 seconds behind the winner.
She just missed making the finals after finishing 13th overall.
The two-time Olympian will compete on the final day
In between the Games, Crawford won Australia's first
of competition in the 30km freestyle mass start. At the
snowboard halfpipe World Championship medal, silver at the
time of publication the event had not yet taken place
2009 World Championships in Korea. She ultimately claimed
(25 February, 2018).
the World Championship crown in 2011, and then won
another silver medal in 2013. Congratulations to all competitors.
26 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 27ROAR | FEATURE By Lachy France
It has often been said that defending a championship a vintage 7 of 8 shooting night to tally 19 points and 10
is harder than winning one in the first place, but assists. A win over Bendigo on New Year’s Eve followed, and
Brydens Sydney Uni Flames nevertheless gave it a the Flames had secured home advantage for the semi-finals.
red-hot crack in 2017/18 as the team attempted Although the Flames would have the opportunity to play two
to bring a second consecutive championship to the home games in the semi-finals, the new format meant that
Harbour City, writes Lachy France. the team would have to travel to Townsville for Game 1 to
face a Fire side that would be acutely aware of their recent
After going under the radar prior to 2016-17’s title-winning late-season struggles against the Flames and desperate to
campaign, the Flames were certainly the hunted going into atone for both last season’s semi-final loss and the previous
2017-18. Add to that the improved rosters of Melbourne and week’s demolition.
Adelaide, as well as the already strong Townsville and Perth
teams, and securing another title was always destined to be In front of a raucous home crowd, the game was tight in the
tougher than winning one in the first place. first quarter before the Fire began to dominate against an
out of touch Flames side. Shooting just 24% from the field,
Fortunately, Coach Cheryl Chambers was able to retain the Flames were challenged by a Fire side which opened up
the majority of her title-winning squad. While All Star point a 16 point half and never looked back on their way to a 78-49
guard Leilani Mitchell made the move to Turkey and Lauren victory. Heading back to Sydney for Game 2, the Flames
Nicholson headed to Adelaide, the remainder of the squad, knew that they would have to win two consecutive games
including imports Asia Taylor and Jennifer Hamson, returned to secure a grand final berth, and they had a secret weapon
to the team. Furthermore, the team was able to lure back up their sleeves: Tahlia Tupaea would make her return to
fan favourite Katie-Rae Ebzery after her season in Russia, the team in the season’s most crucial game.
bolstering the backcourt markedly. However, news would
come shortly before the commencement of the season that
WNBA draftee Tahlia Tupaea would miss the majority of the
season through injury, throwing a spanner in the works even
"After going under the
before the first game.
radar prior to 2016-17’s
The Flames were unperturbed, though. Although they
dropped their first game, 91-80 to Adelaide, the defending title-winning campaign,
champions then reeled off four consecutive wins, including
on the road at Perth and Townsville, to enjoy a solid first the Flames were certainly
month of the season. A nail-biting loss away to Dandenong
snapped that streak, but the team quickly rebounded to win the hunted going into
three consecutive games and by mid-November the Flames
were in a strong position heading into the second half of the 2017-18."
shortened season.
No season is without its peaks and troughs, and the Flames But the Fire were never going to let the home side have
certainly hit a trough midway through the season. Losses to
CHAMPIONS
things all their own way. While the Flames maintained a
Perth and Melbourne stung, but a victory over the Boomers lead throughout much of the first half, they couldn’t extend
in the return fixture shortly after seemed to have the Flames the margin beyond five points at any time, and eventually
back on track with an outstanding offensive performance that Townsville secured a lead late in the first half to hold a 41-37
garnered a 101-89 win as Asia Taylor, Alex Wilson, and Belinda advantage at halftime. The game remained tight deep into
Snell all dropped in excess of 20 points. But a pair of home the contest, with the Flames regaining the lead late in the third
losses to Adelaide and Townsville, each by three points, saw quarter, and although the Fire regained the advantage, a late
the Flames slip back into the fight for finals spots after they run from the Flames garnered the team a one point lead with
hunted
had been entrenched in the top 4 for much of the season. a minute to play. Unfortunately, the Fire capitalised on some
Despite stumbling through the middle part of the season, Flames errors in a frantic final minute, and although Belinda
the Flames once again proved that they are strong finishers. Snell had a last-second prayer from the corner, it was off target
After last season’s 8 game winning streak to complete the and the Fire escaped with a 68-65 win, and with it a spot in
regular season, the Flames won four of their final five games, the grand final, ending the Flames’ season in the process.
including a 90-57 demolition of the Bendigo Spirit, leading up Despite the semi-final loss which brought the team’s title
to the final weekend of the season which featured a potentially defence to an end, there were still stories of success to come
down
pivotal pair of games for the defending champions. for the Flames. For the second year in succession, import
Coming into the final round of the season, the Flames already Asia Taylor was named in the WNBL All-Star Five for yet
knew they would be playing Townsville in the semi-finals, and another outstanding season. On top of this, both Belinda
a win over the Fire themselves, combined with victory over Snell and Katie-Rae Ebzery were named to an extended
Bendigo, would deliver the Flames home advantage in that Opals squad for Commonwealth Games selection camps.
semi-final series. The Flames promptly came out in red-hot Although it may not have been as successful a season as the
touch, putting the Fire to the sword with an outstanding previous year for the Flames, the future remains bright for
107-81 win in which Jennifer Hamson finished with 24 points Sydney’s only WNBL team led by Cheryl Chambers as Head
and 9 rebounds, while Belinda Snell showcased her talents in Coach for another two seasons.
28 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS WWW.SUSF.COM.AU 29You can also read
