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USC’s top athletes gear up for Games
The University of the Sunshine Coast’s finest athletes are proudly donning their jerseys in readiness for the 2010 Northern University Games, being held in Toowoomba from July 4-7.
Having secured the “Spirit of the Games” trophy at the Northern University Games (NUGs) on the Sunshine Coast in 2009, USC is keen to continue its outstanding form in 2010.
Eighty-six athletes will be striving for gold during the four-day tournament against other students from Queensland and northern New South Wales in team sports of basketball, netball, touch football, volleyball, Rugby 7s and tennis.
USC Sport Coordinator Kate Bell said the Games were a great way for USC to build and strengthen its representative teams in preparation for the Australian University Games in Perth later this year.
“All teams look like they will be competitive in Toowoomba, particularly our Rugby 7s and Men’s Touch teams, which will be real contenders for gold,” Kate said.
She said the NUGs provided a strong social atmosphere, which allowed students to make friends with like-minded athletes from other universities, build confidence and improve their sporting skills, time management and teamwork.
“The skills gained from NUGs are extremely valuable and can be incorporated into University life to give individuals a greater sense of self worth and capability for achieving whatever it is they wish to do,” she said.
“It provides a great opportunity for both social and competitive players and the personal benefits of getting involved and being part of a team are priceless.”
USC Men’s Touch Team captain Sam Poulsen said he experienced a great sense of pride in being able to represent USC against much larger universities.
“This is my last year at USC and last time playing Uni Games,” he said. “Over the years, I’ve found it a great way to meet new people and I’ve created some really strong friendships with both team mates and competitors,” he said.
“NUGs give us a chance to compete against universities that have four or five times the number of students we have, allowing us to show them what we’re made of and really step up our sporting performances.”
— Jamie English