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USC academic inducted in Q150 Hall of Fame
Associate Professor Brendan Burkett will be one of the inaugural 150 sporting legends to be inducted into the Queensland Sport Hall of Fame on Friday 4 December.
An academic at USC for 11 years, Associate Professor Burkett said it was “a real honour” to be named among swimming peers such as Grant Hackett, Kieren Perkins and Tracey Wickham.
The four-time Paralympic swimmer and world record holder, who teaches and researches in sport science, said the induction reflected the combination of academic and real-world experience among USC staff.
“Our experience is of great benefit to students because they don’t just learn theory, they see how that knowledge can be applied in practical ways,” Associate Professor Burkett said.
“For example, I can teach sport science students not only how to measure velocity but also how to set and achieve lifelong goals through dedication and teamwork.
“USC has a real edge with the depth of applied knowledge available to our students.”
He is one of 18 swimmers named on the list, which covers 136 athletes and 14 general members involved in 29 sports from AFL to yachting.
The Hall of Fame will be a special feature of the 15th Annual Queensland Sport Awards presentation in Brisbane on 4 December. It is also part of the Q150 celebrations as Queensland marks 150 years of independence from New South Wales on 10 December.
Associate Professor Burkett is currently travelling to Brazil in his role as sport scientist for the Australian team contesting the International Paralympic Committee World Short Course Championships.
– Julie Gatehouse