ROAR 7

7 SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS MAGAZINE Next stop: Delhi.

Catching up with Commonwealth Games bound Lachlan Renshaw.

8

24

All the gear, plenty of ideas and loads of service to boot.

Join us from only $55.

WINTER 10 All the latest news and reviews from the ‘Blue & Gold’ Club.

43

DRIVING FORCE Sharp, modest and competitive.

Meet Sarah Stewart.

SARAH STEWART PhD. Philosophy PLUS: PEAK PERFORMERS > FIRST AID COURSES > CARBOHYDRATES > JUNIOR SPORT

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FROM THE EDITOR

GOOD, BETTER, BEST. Most of us will never have the opportunity to compete on the world’s grandest sporting stages, to be watched by a global audience of billions or have the opportunity to become a national hero with one leap, run, step or try.

Photograph by KARL SCHWERTFEGER

But rather than sit, dream and perhaps even drool at the thought of being ‘that’ athlete, shouldn’t we all be searching for something even more elusive? Something more personally rewarding, and yet ultimately more difficult? Searching for that undeniable sensation that will overwhelm you as you look in the mirror, and see (honestly) that you’ve done it - you’re at your peak!

This issue is filled with glimpses into the lives of our star performers and their tips, tricks and tested theories to get you and keep you performing at your peak. Enjoy reading about Commonwealth Games bound Lachlan Renshaw (p 8), Flames’ captain Natalie Porter (p 28), and our cover profile, dual-Paralympian Sarah Stewart (p 16). If that isn’t enough to inspire you, there’s plenty of nutritional advice (p 12) and training tips (p 14) - there to aid every body.

Whether you’re kicking the ball in the backyard, chasing the kids through the park, or tackling your next half marathon, there’s definitely something in this, our seventh edition of ROAR, that we hope can take you from good, to better, to beyond your personal best.

Enjoy.

ROSS XENOS Editor

THE TEAM. Meet some of the key players behind this issue...

ROB SMITHIES Rob is the Executive Director of SUSF. He provides excellent direction and drive to a confident team who rise to the challenge of providing a successful and vibrant sport & fitness program. He is passionate about the growth of sport in Australia and remains SUSFC’s highest goal scorer.

2 ROAR

LEA CARSWELL Lea is a freelance writer/editor who has worked with the SUSF team since 2007. She is a Sydney Uni graduate, a wife, mum of twins, avid reader and frustrated novelist. She wishes she lived close enough to make more use of the SUSF pool and gym.

RODney TUBBS

CRIS PENN

Rod, or ‘Tubbsy’ as he is affectionately known, is the Corporate & Alumni Relations Manager at SUSF. He creates memorable ‘Blue & Gold’ events and his ground work to the contribution of the funding of multiple sports is outstanding. He is a passionate Sydney Swans supporter and an avid golfer.

Cris’ background involves both nursing and teaching and she has worked here at SUSF for the past 18 years.

She actively competes in domestic and international athletics. Cris is very passionate about senior’s fitness, and has years of experience in group fitness instruction.

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CONTENTS

ROAR MAGAZINE 7 Editor Ross Xenos Deputy Editor Shari Wakefield

Editorial Coordinator Lea Carswell, Thumbnail

11

Contributing Writers Lea Carswell Graham Croker Anthony Ellison Kate Gould Luke Madigan Cris Penn Aaron Scott Rodney Tubbs Shari Wakefield Contributing Photographers Fred Etter istock Photography Karl Schwerdtfeger David Stanton Kim Vernon Shari Wakefield SYDNEY UNI SPORT & FITNESS Executive Director Robert Smithies High Performance & Club Development Manager Matthew Phelps Corporate & Alumni Relations Manager Rodney Tubbs Elite Athlete Program Manager Ian Evans Marketing & Membership Manager Ross Xenos

14

16 Sarah Stewart More than just a dual Paralympian, Sarah comments on women’s sport and having a disability.

BY AARON SCOTT 26 Peak Performers Crunching the numbers with some of our peak performers including Natalie Porter, Dave Dennis and Lisa Sthalekar.

BY SHARI WAKEFIELD 30 First Aid. Second Nature.

Are you a teacher, a coach or even a mother? Be prepared - you never know

16 REGULARS

when first aid training will come in handy.

BY KATE GOULD

2

Welcome

6

News Bites

33 Kayak Research Some of our best minds are set to increase our peak performance, with a look into how equipment affects a paddler’s style.

BY LEA CARSWELL and Shari Wakefield

11

Senior’s Wellness

12

Nutrition

14

Training Tips

22

Facilities Guide

24

Membership Explained

43 ‘Blue & Gold’ Newsletter All the latest news and reviews from the ‘Blue & Gold’ club, functions, events and more.

BY RODNEY TUBBS

32

Your Body

36

Junior Sports

38

Club News & Directory

47

Events

49

Sponsors & Partners

48 Crokes’ Corner Keeping the Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness community informed of all the latest stats and news that you won’t find anywhere else.

BY GRAHAM CROKER

E

E N H OU

RI

F

Programs & Participation Manager Leonie Lum

Be active Be healthy Get involved

Features 8 Profile: Lachlan Renshaw ROAR grills the Beijing Olympian and current Australian 800m champion on what makes him tick.

BY ROSS XENOS

39

SE

Operations & Facilities Manager David Shaw

6

36

GR

Creative Direction RGC Pty Ltd

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CONSUMER

SUSF uses G reenhouse Friendly ENVI Silk Carbon Neutral paper ENVI Silk is an Australian Government certified Greenhouse Friendly™ Product.

The text of this magazine is printed on ENVI Silk Carbon neutral paper.

ROAR 5

AUTUMN AT A GLANCE...

NEWS BITES

WNBL FinalS Series 6 The ACUVUE Sydney Uni Flames finished second on the WNBL ladder, however were knocked out by the Canberra Capitals in the Prelim. Final. Canberra went on to win the Grand Final 75-70 against minor premiers Bulleen.

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MARC

Australian Junior Athletics 13 -14 Championships In what was one of the most hotly contested races on the program, with H

MARC

five athletes having already posted World Junior Qualifying times, SUSF scholarship holder Todd Wakefield stole victory in the Men’s 1500m.

Telstra H MARC 16 -21 Australian Swimming Championships Scholarship holder Emma Gray had a standout performance in the Women’s 50m Butterfly, swimming a PB to qualify for her first major championship semi final.

Photograph COURTESY 2DAY FM

Photograph by PAUL SEISER

Stand Out Performance

National 1 - 7 Rowing Championships Capping off an outstanding week for the rowing program, five of the nine man crew to win the King’s Cup for NSW, were Sydney Uni athletes.

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31

Annual Sports Awards Night See ‘Blue & Gold’.

SUFC Season 10 kick-off The 2010 season kicked off when Sydney Uni took on Randwick at home in a replay of the 2009 Grand Final. Sadly Uni went down 37-7.

APRIL

12th – 14th March Hamish & Andy’s Bi Bi Tri Biathlon It was wonderful to see so many of SUSF’s clubs and facilities being used in the Hamish & Andy Bi Bi Tri Biathlon (or 24 sports in 1 weekend). The Fencing Club had a duel at the Arena, the Men’s Water Polo team splashed around after their National League game, and the Touch Football Club battled it out against the Cumberland side. Other sporting teams also utilised the Square, the ACUVUE Sports Hall and the Squash Courts.

Photograph by ALISON CROFTON

By winning the women’s

6 ROAR

400m, at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships, in a personal best time of 53.88sec, Rubie has booked herself a seat on the plane to Moncton, Canada for the World Junior Athletics Championships later in the year.

Carlie Ikonomou:

Monty Krochmal:

She is a new signing this year

Sydney Uni AFL Club is expecting

for the Sydney Uni Soccer

big things in 2010. Watch out

Football Club. As an Australian

as several talented Colts (and

School Girl she dazzled the crowd with her boot – so keep your eye on her as she finds her feet on No. 1 Oval.

Photograph by FRED ETTER

Anneliese Rubie:

Photograph COURTESY CARLIE IKONOMOU

Keep your eye on…

possible future Sydney Swans), including 16 year old Monty Krochmal, break into the senior side after an excellent preseason. First home match was Saturday 17 April on No 1 Oval.

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PROFILE

Lachlan 8 ROAR

Renshaw

ROAR: When did you first start running and when did you realise it was something that was more than just a hobby?

LR: I started when I was about 4 or 5 through Little Athletics. Strangely I only really got involved because my brother was running. During school I played all sorts of sports including rugby, rowing and obviously athletics. When I finished school I thought that might have been it, but I found my feet with a local squad, really enjoyed it and it went from there.

ROAR: To many people, spending hours tearing up the tartan is a little drab. What is it about athletics that you enjoy?

LR: Track and field is often seen as a collection of individual sports, but in actual fact there is quite a lot of camaraderie within the sport, within the group of regular competitors. As far as training goes, we train in a big squad and it’s extremely enjoyable. Beyond that though, I am a very competitive individual, just competing and winning races is very important to me.

ROAR: As a youngster, who were your sporting idols?

LR: Growing up, it was David Campese and Stephen Larkham - I was a very big rugby fan. Also, I’m very lucky to have experienced the 2000 Olympics - it’s hard to go past watching someone like Cathy Freeman and her success.

ROAR: Being selected for Beijing was an enormous achievement in itself, but you have described it as ‘being a little fish out of my depth in a very big pond’.

Reflecting back honestly, how do you summarise your Olympic campaign?

LR: At the time, it was my first major championship, and I wasn’t really expecting too much – to be honest, it was just great to be there. I really, in reality, was never going to make it out of the heats, having drawn two world champions with only the first two going through to the next round.

FAST Facts:

Looking back, it was a great experience and I know that I have taken a lot from it. I know that I have competed against the best - guys who are a lot older, stronger and faster. I know now that I can compete with these guys. Not everyone gets the chance to wear the green and gold on the world’s biggest sporting stage and that is something that really drives me to do it again.

ROAR: Looking forward to London in 2012, what changes do you make to your mindset and your training to try to craft that extra competitiveness?

LR: For me, just competing with the best, on a week to week basis, particularly in the European season, adds a lot.

My training has been stepped up significantly, in terms of my mileage, and my strength work. I also now have a better understanding of how I can run my race. My speed over the last 200m has improved a lot and that’s what really makes the difference when it comes to racing the guys at the pinnacle of this event.

ROAR: Having just collected the 2010 National 800m Championship, the 2010 Commonwealth Games in October are now officially your next big challenge.

What expectations do you have of yourself?

LR: I am in the best form of my life and really enjoying the fact that this year everything is targeted towards the one race in Delhi. My first goal is obviously to race well early, make the final and then from there anything can happen. There will be some pretty stiff competition from the Kenyans and South Africans in particular, but come October I’d like to think I will be right up there in the mix.

ROAR: It seems no media outlet can report on Delhi 2010 without hyping concerns for security and athlete safety.

Does that weigh on your mind?

LR: There were some significant concerns going into Beijing - security and smog, amongst other things. One of

the things that has really stuck with me is the way a lot of the senior members in the team really settled everyone down.

If you are worrying about those sorts of things, which are well outside of your control, then it’s really only going to have a negative impact on your performance.

So, it really is a matter of how you let it affect you. I personally don’t think there will be much to be concerned about and I’ve just got to worry about what I’ve got to do, which is running two laps of the track.

ROAR: It’s easy to forget you’re achieving all of this whilst still being a student (B.Comm). Does being an elite athlete make you a better student, or vice versa?

LR: It’s definitely made me focus more on managing my time. I’m very busy travelling quite a bit. I don’t know whether it’s had a positive impact on my marks directly, but as a student it has certainly made me a lot more diligent and efficient in my approach to my studies. I hope my lecturers feel the same way.

ROAR: What does being a part of the Sydney Uni community mean to you?

LR: Sydney Uni is the premier sporting and academic institution in the country.

Being a part of a program that includes the best cricketers, rowers, rugby and water polo players - all kinds of different elite athletes all pursuing the same goals - makes it very unique and very special.

Sydney Uni Athletics club has arguably the best camaraderie of any club in Australia. At the Uni games each year we are the biggest team, proudly cheering as a squad. At weekly meets, we’re there proudly with our banners and team songs. It is truly a great club to be a part of.

ROAR: Finally, if you weren’t an elite athlete, what would you be?

LR: Never really thought about it. Maybe an architect...or a fireman. n ROSS XENOS

Nickname: Rench D.O.B: 02 / 04 / 1987 Career Highlight: 2008 Beijing Olympics Event: 800m National Champion: 2010, 2008. PB Time: 1:45.7 (Germany, 2009) Superstitions: None. Three people he’d invite to dinner: Usain Bolt. Jennifer Hawkins. Kanye West. What you wouldn’t know: He impressively won the Greater Public Schools (GPS) Open 800m title - four years running.

ROAR 9

Photograph by GETTY

ROAR catches up with the fastest man in Australia over 800m, who’s just booked himself a ticket to sample the lifestyle in Delhi later this year and aims to bring home a Commonwealth Games medal for his troubles.

uni2010_cards_V02_outlined.indd 1

10 ROAR

14/01/10 2:43 PM

SENIOR’S WELLNESS

YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD! There is a fountain of youth and millions have discovered it.

The secret to feeling better and living longer is staying active!

By CRIS PENN SENIOR WELLNESS INSTRUCTOR

N

ow, more than ever, it is apparent that regular “structured” exercise plays a vital role in healthy ageing, bringing with it the many benefits of an active lifestyle.

Regular physical activity can: Help prevent heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure; • Reduce the risk of developing type II diabetes and some cancers; • Help build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints reducing the risk of injury; and • Promote psychological well-being.

•

Our Senior’s Wellness Program specifically aims to combat the debilitating effects of the ageing process. of osteoporosis is affecting our ageing population. The Federal Government, in conjunction with Fitness Australia, has placed a renewed effort on improving the quality of life of our population’s fastest growing sector – the over 55s.

At Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness we place great importance on our older members and have developed a Senior’s Wellness Program that specifically aims to combat the debilitating effects of the ageing process.

In 2005 the Department of Health and Ageing released ‘The National Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults – An active

Photograph by SHARI WAKEFIELD

Until recently it was thought that “incidental” or un-planned exercise was enough to ward off these health risks. Yet heart disease and obesity are increasing and an exploding incidence

way to better health!’ which set out 4 steps to better health for Australian adults. They are: 1. Think of movement as an opportunity, not an inconvenience; 2. Be active every day in as many ways as you can; 3. Put together at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days; and 4. If you can, also enjoy some regular vigorous activity for extra health and fitness.

Over the past 4 years the SUSF Senior’s Wellness Program has provided an effective, safe and enjoyable Group Fitness experience. Our fantastic team of instructors - John, Cris and Kathy - focus initially on correct exercise technique,

postural awareness, and functional stability and then progress each individual along a path towards improved health and fitness.

Classes include Resistance Circuits which are aimed at providing weight bearing exercise for increasing bone density and general strength; Postural Fitness for functional core strength and co-ordination; Stretch ‘n’ Balance for falls prevention and flexibility; and Aqua Aerobics for a low-impact, full body work out.

SUSF has what you need when it comes to commencing and, more importantly, sticking to a healthy and safe exercise regime. And, at discounted entry prices, the Senior’s Wellness Program allows safe entry into a supervised exercise regime for a fraction of the price of regular gym or group fitness entry. n ROAR 11

NUTRITION

FIGHTING FATIGUE WITH THE RIGHT CARBOHYDRATES Keeping fit and reducing your waistline doesn’t mean cutting carbohydrates from your diet - if anything getting rid of carbohydrates could be dangerous.

By SHARI WAKEFIELD nutrients it needs and can give rise to some major problems: • nausea • dizziness • constipation • lethargy • dehydration • bad breath

Photograph COURTESY ISTOCK

Good Carb vs. Bad Carb – Processed vs.

Unprocessed Get to know these two terms: complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates.

Simple carbohydrates are usually considered to be “bad” carbs, because they are found in foods that have been processed and broken down before being put back together in an unnatural way.

Similarly, processed complex carbohydrates, like refined grains such as white flour and white rice, have lost the natural vitamins and fibre which make complex carbohydrates the super fuel that they are.

However, natural simple carbohydrates, such as those found in apples, cranberries and kiwi fruit, are the best carbs to eat, especially if you are trying to lose weight.

These simple carbs also contain vitamins, fibre and other important nutrients.

Natural complex carbohydrates, such as bran, wheatgerm, barley, maize, cornmeal, buckwheat and oatmeal, are amazing carbs that contain vitamins, minerals and fibre that not only get your digestive system working well, but help you feel full and stop you from overeating.

M

any younger people, particularly women, have cut carbs from their diet at some stage. Carb is, after all, a terrifying four letter word! In fact your body needs carbohydrates to survive.

They are an important fuel source for many vital organs including the brain, central nervous system and kidneys.

12 ROAR

Carbs and your Daily Routine What’s Wrong with a Low-Carb Diet?

The basic idea that carbohydrates cause weight gain is untrue. You gain weight if you consume too many kilojoules (or calories) - it doesn’t matter whether they come from carbohydrates, proteins or fats.

Low carbohydrate diets lead to weight loss by restricting kilojoules or energy, but this starves the body of the

Breakfast Have your largest serve of carbohydrates in the morning and give your body fuel to perform at its best throughout the day.

How about a bowl of natural wholegrain cereal with skim milk, topped with half a banana or half a punnet of any type of berry?

Not a cereal fan? Two slices of whole-

grain toast topped with baked beans or scrambled eggs will not only turn on your metabolism but also your brain.

Lunch Lunch is usually munched on the run these days – but can still contain ‘good’ carbs.

Wholemeal bread or rice cakes can make delicious, healthy sandwiches and

rice or pasta salad are great options for lunch.

Dinner Finish off your day with the humble potato. Keep the skin on – it’s high in fibre - and boil or bake your potato wrapped in foil to eliminate the use of oils.

And lastly, enjoy carbs.

They aren’t the enemy anymore. n

CARBS + THE GI.

By Caroline George, Eat Fit Food Carbohydrates (carbs) have been blamed for contributing to increasing chronic disease statistics. This blame has helped to popularise the LOW CARB/HIGH PROTEIN diets and the ‘Food Industry’ has responded by removing sugar and/or fat from numerous processed foods & drinks. Despite these changes, obesity and diabetes rates continue to climb.

Historically, sweet-food=safe-food=survival. Watch birds and animals pull fruits off orchard trees, the sweetest fruits are picked guaranteed. Consider human breast milk, the first food that humans taste. The dominant macronutrient is carbohydrate: nourishing, sweet, safe and comforting.

Carbohydrate is critical for most life-sustaining processes in humans. Restricting carbohydrates causes problems i.e. fatigue, impaired mental & emotional processing and immune system suppression.

Humans are wired for carbohydrates, not entirely highly processed carbohydrates (e.g. white breads, processed biscuits and cereals) but rather, more complex carbohydrates that are known today to have a low Glycemic Index (GI) (e.g. sweet potato, legumes and whole-grains).

GI denotes the speed at which carbohydrates are digested by the body;

Delivered Fresh Daily to your Door Weight Loss / Detox / Corporate / Healthy Eating Call our friendly consultants today on (02) 9387 7771

HIGH GI = Fast digestion = energy maintenance when running for example; LOW GI = Slower digestion = sustainable energy for the typical office worker.

Low GI carbs + high quality meats + plentiful non-starchy vegetables in correct portions = good balanced nutrition = health. This is exactly what EAT FIT FOOD (EFF) has grown their successful FRESH daily, WHOLEFOOD meal delivery service on.

EFF meals are an excellent way to kick-start the healthconscious into eating healthily. EFF provide correctly portioned healthy meals that you can guarantee will improve your health.

For a personally tailored program, call 02 9387 7771 or go to www.eatfitfood.com.au

ROAR 13

TRAINING

THE BEST WITH THE BEST The impact of technology across society today is far-reaching, especially in the world of fitness where you can achieve some of the best results with the newest equipment.

By Anthony Ellison Fitness Centre Coordinator

Photograph by KARL SCHWERTFEGER

O

VER The past few years I have noted a definitive shift towards functional and more “biomechanically-sound” training. Fitness centres face increased competition and those that fail to keep up with the latest innovations will inevitably fall by the wayside.

Not here! At Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness we are very proud of recent developments across the Sports & Aquatic Centre (SAC) and at the Arena Sports Centre. Our commitment to maintaining our position as a market leader remains strong.

A complete upgrade on all cardio and resistance equipment at SAC allowed us to remain in touch with industry trends.

It’s the only NSW Fitness Centre boasting the innovative US-based Paramount resistance equipment and the new array of cardio equipment offers personalised fans, more Cross Trainers and Rowers and an improved TV/audio system.

The Arena Sports Centre underwent a 14 ROAR

At Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness we are very proud of recent developments across the Sports and Aquatic Centre (SAC) and at the Arena Sports Centre. major refurbishment, enlarging its cardio range by over 60% to cater for the increase in gym-goers at the Centre. A few upgrades and inclusions of essential resistance pieces mean that the set-up at Sydney University is unsurpassed across Sydney.

So what is behind the changes?

For years, strength-training machines were built with no special intent beyond making muscles bigger and stronger by allowing the user to work against

resistance. Then a few athletes and trainers realised that the ability of a muscle to rapidly generate maximum force involves a time/rate dependency that contemporary training technology was unable to address adequately.

Most sport scientists agree that machines are generally inferior to the constant resistance provided by free weights. Nevertheless, derivative technologies continue to flood the marketplace and the gap between traditional resistance machines and freeweight training narrows.

There have been a number of recent shifts in focus across both resistance and cardiovascular training modalities.

Adaptations to pin-loaded machines have been the subject of contention over the last 10 years. While reviewing resistance machines for our refurbishment late last year, it was apparent to me that single-cable or bilateral pieces were rapidly becoming redundant. The new pieces had independent right/left handles, rotatable pistons and more adjustments to suit the variety of limb lengths of respective users.

Basically, the new gear was engineered to train muscles through a more stable, functionally-sound and safer range of movement more indicative of their actual movement pattern.

The new recline, or recumbent, bike allows for greater lumbar support and the innovative Cross Trainer - or Elliptical Strider - reduces impact on troublesome knees, hips and ankles. Treadmills now have built-in fans, increased shock absorption at foot-fall and stiffer take-off support, making our work-out experience more effective and enjoyable as well. n For more information on any of our equipment upgrades, speak with any of our fitness staff today.

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Whether you’re a couch potato or Olympic athlete - take away more than a degree, enjoy a healthier Uni experience, with SUSF.

Read on or visit www.susf.com.au for more info.

COVER FEATURE

Her smile is that of a young woman whose sharp, probing and fiercely positive mind has enabled her to achieve remarkable things.

S arah Stewart:

Unstoppable.

It’s impossible to overstate things when you’re writing about Sarah Stewart. After all, how does an able-bodied journalist, writing for an able-bodied audience, conjure the difficulties she has faced, and continues to face, as she trains for a third

Photograph by KARL SCHWERTFEGER

Paralympics, while finishing her PhD in philosophy and helping to establish the Sydney Uni Wheelchair Flames? How do you conjure the grandeur of her achievements against the daily frustrations and dilemmas that dog her days? How do you conjure such achievement against such struggle? >

BY AARON SCOTT

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You know those inane Q-and-A pieces athletes are asked? Favourite movie?

Favourite food? Recently Stewart answered one such Q-and-A for a basketball website including this question: Pet hate? Most athletes would say ice baths, or early morning sprint sessions. Stewart’s pet hate? “Carpeted ramps when it’s raining and at the top of the ramp there’s a heavy, outward opening door with a step.” Her pet hate is not being physically able to get through the front door of the gym. And so the scale of the struggle Stewart faces every day falls into focus.

Stewart has the disarming habit of smiling when she describes happenings that are often frustrating, occasionally tragic. It’s important to understand the exact nature of this smile: it’s not strained and forced, nor rancorous or bitter. It’s a warm, confident smile - the smile of someone who has contemplated her

“Like every Australian kid I dreamed of representing my country in sport, but it certainly wasn’t something…” Her voice trails off. “I never ruled it out but I wasn’t actively pursuing it at any point in my life. I never really had a clear idea of what I was going to do with my life.”

She laughs, “I probably still don’t! I just enjoy lots and lots of things, and I find lots and lots of things interesting. When I was young I just followed whatever took my interest.”

She smiles, too, when she talks about the banal accident she suffered at 17. “I was practicing my music and, as I was carrying my saxophone and music stand down the stairs, I had a fall. It wasn’t a bad injury – I just strained my ankle, really – but my body…” She pauses here, getting her words right. “My body doesn’t do the healing thing very well.

So instead of the pain signals gradually dying down, they just heightened and

“Getting into that chair

Photograph by FRED ETTER

even though it was scary and confronting – was also liberating. Suddenly I could last so much longer through the days...I could get around so much more easily. It opened my world up in ways I didn’t expect.” predicament and understands her place.

She knows she has suffered a dark turn that has, conversely, brought many fine things to her life. Her smile is that of a young woman whose sharp, probing and fiercely positive mind has enabled her to achieve remarkable things.

Stewart smiles this warm, confident smile when she talks about her sport pre-wheelchair; of playing netball for the Matraville Tigers, of earning a brown belt in judo. Back then sport was simply one more facet in an overflowing life. She was an obsessive child who immersed herself in whatever was going. She loved her schoolwork, she loved her alto saxophone, she loved being active.

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heightened. Eventually my body just shut down.”

The doctors discovered she suffered from dystrophy - her leg would never heal. For almost five years Stewart desperately fought the degeneration of her legs, hobbling about with a walking stick. When she fell again and set off dystrophy in her other leg, she used crutches. She took to swimming to keep her mind and body going.

Ask about the pain that burnt through her legs at that time and, again, she smiles: “It was really awful. Just awful.”

It was a searing pain that began to consume her life. She couldn’t go to the movies or shopping for fear of not having

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Photograph by FRED ETTER

“Philosophy is very much about giving yourself the tools to think about things a little differently,’ she says, “to ask questions other people might not ask, to look for answers other people might not look for. So I think philosophy is a great thing for anything you want to do in life.

For example, a lot of people would find being in the chair really confronting. I was lucky enough to see the positives I could get from being in the chair.” She laughs.

“You know, I couldn’t exactly sit there and hate my wheelchair because without it I’d be crawling across the ground.”

And of course she smiles when she talks about discovering wheelchair basketball back in ’01, at a come-and-try evening at Alexandria. From the start she was smitten. “I was reading the Harry Potter books at the time and it very much felt like quidditch on wheels to me,” she laughs. “It was so much fun – it felt a bit magical.”

Looming over all this STUDY, is London 2012. “After all, she laughs, after having been to Athens and Beijing and coming home with a silver and a bronze, one thing’s missing…” and confronting – was also liberating.

Suddenly I could last so much longer through the days because I wasn’t in so much pain, wasn’t struggling through so much fatigue. I could get around so much more easily. It opened my world up in ways I didn’t expect. I could go to the movies with my friends without worrying about walking out. I could go shopping and carry the bags on the back of my chair…”

As you listen to Stewart talk about these early days in her chair you begin to see the quality that has sustained her – a burnished, unyielding positivity that’s intrinsic to her nature, a quality she nourished as a young girl, diving into every new experience she could find.

But it’s also a quality that continues to strengthen through her studies and PhD in Philosophy.

She’s got a sore throat from howling at her defenders. The research is beginning to pile up as her PhD inches along. And the training’s beginning to pile up as another WNWBL season approaches.

This year there’s the added job of incorporating the Wheelchair Flames into the SUSF structure. It’s a project that thrills Stewart: “People in wheelchairs, and particularly women in wheelchairs, are not encouraged to think about academics. They’re not encouraged to think they might be slightly intelligent.

Often, people in wheelchairs are stereotyped as being mentally disabled as well as physically disabled. So I like the idea that a few of the girls on the Wheelchair Flames team are studying, because we’re portraying the fact that people in wheelchairs can study. And that’s a really positive message to get out there.”

And then, of course, looming over all this study, is London 2012. “After all,” she laughs, “after having been to Athens and Beijing and coming home with a silver and a bronze, one thing’s missing…”

As I hear Stewart talk about the London Games and training for that elusive gold medal, a single thought keeps surfacing: with her enthusiasm, her sharp mind and, above all, her gleaming positivity, surely Sarah Stewart’s greatest achievements will lie beyond the hardwood oblong of the basketball court. n

That first night, wheeling about on the court, Lisa Edmonds, the Australian representative, invited her to a Gliders training session and suddenly Stewart had something new to immerse herself in. “It was a beautiful thing,” she says.

Within that first year she made her WNWBL debut for the Hills Hornets and the following year was awarded “Best New Talent” in the league. By ’03 she had made her Glider’s debut.

The next year she flew to Athens for the ’04 Paralympics and returned with a silver medal. Four years later, in Beijing, the Gliders were pipped by the Americans in the semis and had to settle for bronze.

These days, life is hectic for Stewart.

She’s just flown back from the Osaka Cup tournament in Japan where the Gliders clobbered the Americans in the final.

Photograph by KARL SCHWERTFEGER

the strength to walk back to her car or to carry her bags. If she couldn’t find a parking spot directly outside her lecture hall then she couldn’t make classes.

“Perhaps the hardest thing,” she says, “was that if you pushed yourself too hard then you went backwards. So I tried to walk as much as I could, but if I did too much then I just deteriorated and I couldn’t get that back.” For an obsessive character like Stewart, a girl who had immersed herself in things as a teenager, it was hellish.

Stewart smiles, too, about the day, as a 21-year-old, when she first got in her chair. “Certainly it’s a hard step to go into a chair. When you’re at that point where you’re struggling, where you can’t get through the days, when you can’t even string a few steps together - yes, it’s a really hard mental step to go into a chair. But I was in so much pain! Getting into that chair – even though it was scary

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HEALTH & FITNESS facilities Whatever you’re after we’ve got it for you

UNIVERSITY SPORTS & AQUATIC CENTRE Corner Codrington Street and Darlington Road.

Tel: 02 9351 4978 Fax: 02 9351 4982 Email:nmrc@sport.usyd.edu.au Opening Hours Monday - Friday: 5.30am-10pm Saturday: 6am-8pm Sunday: 6am-10pm Splash out in the University Sports and Aquatic Centre (USAC) with its wide range of fitness services, indoor swimming pool, state-of-theart cardio and resistance equipment and group fitness classes by Les Mills. Let our professional, caring team help you on your way to a better you.

USAC features: 50m heated indoor swimming pool 6 synthetic grass tennis courts 4 squash courts Multi-function sports hall Modern fitness equipment Group fitness studio RPM Studio Health assessments

Photograph by KARL SCHWERTFEGER

• • • • • • • • • •

• • • •

Fitness testing Personal training Mint Cafe Sports Bistro

ARENA SPORTS CENTRE Arena Sports Centre, Western Avenue.

Tel: 02 9351 8111 Fax: 02 9351 8105 Email: arena@sport.usyd.edu.au Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 6.30am - 10pm Saturday: 8am - 5pm Sunday: 12pm - 5pm Improve your lifestyle through improved fitness at The Arena.

Our new, media integrated cardio equipment will raise your heart rate, whilst our pin loaded resistance weight machines and wide range of free weights continue to prove to be extremely popular amongst our diverse range of clientele. Whether you’re a complete beginner to exercise or an elite athlete our highly qualified, friendly and caring staff are always at hand to assist you on your way to achieving your personal goals.

The Arena features:

The Ledge features:

•

•

• • • • • • • • •

State-of-the-art cardio room Extensive weights room Personal Training Scientific health assessments Complimentary fitness programs Multi-purpose sports hall 2 squash courts 3 Badminton courts The Ledge Climbing Centre Ralph’s cafe

LEDGE CLIMBING CENTRE Arena Sports Centre, Western Avenue.

Tel: 02 9351 8115 Opening Hours Monday - Friday: 12pm - 10pm Saturday - 11am - 5pm Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays Move up in the world at The Ledge. Experience rock climbing, one of the world’s fastest growing indoor sports.

The Ledge Climbing Centre offers over 300 metres of textured walls up to 8 metres high and a variety of vertical and overhanging wall systems with aretes, roofs and slabs.

• •

Climbs ranging from beginner to advanced.

Experienced staff on hand for coaching and assistance.

Specialised high-standard safety equipment. All first-time climbers must complete a thorough safety orientation session.

Casual climbing and bouldering is open to all.

Both Beginner and Intermediate climbing programs can be organised on request.

For school bookings, contact: Peter Butcher on: 02 9351 8115.

Discounts apply.

HK WARD GYMNASIUM Grose Farm Lane (between Oval Nos. 1 & 2) Tel: 02 9351 4988 Fax: 02 9351 4990 Email: hk@sport.usyd.edu.au Opening Hours Monday - Friday: 11.30am - 10pm Saturday - Sunday: 9.30am - 6.30pm

New cardio equipment in action at The Arena.

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HK Ward Gym features: • Martial arts facility • Multi sports hall • Boxing ring and gym • Group fitness studio • Boxercise and kick boxing classes • Ergometer training • Sports equipment hire Casual and permanent bookings are available for clubs and individuals, either in person at the reception or by phoning: 02 9351 4988

THE GRANDSTAND RESTAURANT & FUNCTION CENTRE The place to meet – perfect for sporting celebrations (and post mortems!)

The Grandstand Restaurant is located in the Bruce Williams Pavilion on No.1 Oval, in the grounds of historic Sydney University. Open Monday to Friday for lunch daily until 3pm, except for public holidays. Takeaway meals are also available.

The Grandstand Function Centre is available for weddings, dinners, birthdays, fund-raisers and cocktail parties. Seating 150 people comfortably, the venue is available for hire at competitive rates.

For booking enquiries please contact: The Venue Manager Tel: 02 9518 6222 Email: contact@ thegrandstand.com.au

Photograph by KARL SCHWERTFEGER

Get among the elite at HK Ward Gym. Situated between the two main ovals of the University, it’s a focal point for high performance sports, recreational activities and club sport. Hire a variety of sports equipment at reception. Change room lockers are available for casual and permanent use.

Conditions apply.

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BECOME A MEMBER. Three easy steps.

1. Join the club.

2. Choose the pass that suits you best according to

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP

GOLD LION PASS

SILVER LION PASS

‘Become a part of Australia’s most successful sporting club‘

‘Experience our premium pass, without the premium price‘

‘Enjoy the choice to get what you really want‘

Annual Membership benefits include:

Gold benefits include:

Silver benefits include:

• Access to all three facilities on campus, including unlimited access to pool, access to cardio/weights room, group fitness classes • Unlimited access to the Ledge Climbing Centre • Access to HK Ward boxing facilities • A complimentary fitness assessment • Ongoing fitness management consultations every 6-8 weeks • Free towel and locker hire at each visit • Exclusive sporting accessories • Use of Time Stop available • Complimentary subscription to ROAR magazine

• Unlimited access to pool • Unlimited access to cardio/weights room* OR • Unlimited group fitness classes* (All facilities) • A complimentary fitness assessment • Ongoing fitness management • A free locker at each visit • Access to HK Ward boxing facilities • Use of Time Stop available

• Open invitations to any of our sports clubs with exclusive benefits such as training time, equipment and coaching • Access to all Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness facilities at casual rates • Access to our member benefits program Only $55.00 per year

Available as 3, 6 or 12 month upfront options. Fortnightly Direct Debit option also available.

Sydney Uni Staff and Students from $14 per week Community from $19 per week

Available as 3, 6 or 12 month upfront options. Fortnightly Direct Debit option also available.

Sydney Uni Staff and Students from $11 per week Community from $13 per week

3. Enjoy the benefits.

your taste and timetable.

A great range of exclusive member benefits: n A healthier, more active lifestyle.

BLUE LION PASS

‘Sweat it out with our finest and let performance become your passion‘

‘Dive in, and paddle your way to a healthier you‘

Bronze benefits include:

Blue benefits include:

• Unlimited access to the cardio and weights facilities at The Arena Sports Centre • A complimentary fitness assessment • Ongoing fitness management • A free locker at each visit • Access to HK Ward boxing facilities • Use of Time Stop available

• Unlimited access to the Sports and Aquatic Centre’s 50m heated Olympic pool • A free locker at each visit • Use of Time Stop available

Available as 3, 6 or 12 month upfront options. Fortnightly Direct Debit option also available.

Sydney Uni Staff and Students from $8 per week Community from $10 per week

Available as 3, 6 or 12 month upfront options. Fortnightly Direct Debit option also available.

Sydney Uni Staff and Students from $7 per week Community from $9 per week

n A sense of belonging to one of Australia’s richest sporting traditions. n No messy contracts or long- term lock-ins. n Maximum flexibility at an unbeatable price.

Plus, a great range of exclusive member benefits, including: − Up to 20% discount on Recreation Courses. − Member’s rates on Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness branded apparel at the Co-op Bookshop. − Access to the Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness Corporate Health Plan with MBF − 5% MVP discount at Rebel Sport. − Discounts on enrolments in Sydney Uni School Holiday Sports Camps. − Great savings at the Grandstand Sports Bar and Restaurant.

* prices quoted denote weekly breakdown of 12 month pass.

BRONZE LION PASS

PEAK PERFORMERS

Integrating an education, a career and a personal life with a high performance sporting career is a challenge. Heck, being a uni student and coping with a new environment, new routine and a part-time job is hard enough. Start to crunch the numbers on these top performing student-athletes and you’ll see they complete some pretty amazing feats each and every day!

MUCH MORE THAN BEER, BOOKS AND BANTER.

1 Photograph by GETTY IMAGES

LISA STHALEKAR

GETTING TO KNOW THREE OF OUR PEAK STUDENT PERFORMERS.

By Shari Wakefield

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AUSTRALIAN aND STATE REPRESENTATIVE, PART OF THE UNIVERSITIES WOMEN’S CRICKET TEAM

Just like the average uni student, Lisa’s life was arranged around meal times. Although, unlike the average uni student, Lisa managed to maintain a healthy diet. Ditching hot chips and beers at Manning in favour of snacks of nuts and chickpeas, that kept her going - with the energy to train through lunch.

An integral part of the Australian team, Sthalekar is noted for both her batting and bowling (right arm off break) capabilities. She scored her maiden Test century against England in 2003, and has a Test bowling average of less than 20.

She currently serves as vice-

captain for her country, and in the 2006-07 season she guided the New South Wales Breakers to their ninth Women’s National Cricket League title in 11 years, scoring 83 in the final.

Lisa deems her Mac computer and her Blackberry as indispensible to her life, as they keep her life in order. And that’s a hard task!

However, unlike most uni students (or for that matter most people aged 16-35), Lisa doesn’t have a Facebook page.

‘I don’t have Facebook. I refuse to join the revolution,’ said Sthalekar.

NUMBER CRUNCH 2001 the year that Lisa made the Australian team n 750 minutes spent on State Training per week n 450 minutes of Strength and Conditioning Training per week n 122 matches played in the WNCL (Women’s National Cricket League). This makes Lisa the most capped player n 30 the hours she used to spend at uni per week, devoted to lectures, tutorials and study n 4 the number of months of each year spent playing cricket overseas n 2 the number of times that Sthalekar has been named the Australian International Woman Cricketer of the Year at the Allan Border Medal awards n

AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATIVE, NSW WARATAH, CURRENT SUFC FIRST GRADEr

Like the average uni student, Dave wanted to feel ‘part of something’ when he came to uni. He enjoyed the community spirit of rugby and the great relationships that were fostered through the sport both on and off the field. Fortunately, and unlike the average uni student, Dave excelled at rugby in a big way.

Dave earned his callup to the Waratahs after his impressive record with premiers, Sydney Uni club, in the Shute Shield competition.

Dave had captained the Sydney Uni side for most of the ’09 season, until Tim Davidson returned from a stint

in England with Leeds.

Dave was happy to re-sign with the Waratahs this season, stating…‘If possible, I always wanted to stay in Sydney. It’s where I’ve always lived. My family and my friends are here. I also want to be a part of what the squad and the staff here have developed.’

And staying local also means that he can continue with his study here at Sydney Uni in a Graduate Certificate in Commerce.

In terms of Facebook – yes, Dave does have a Facebook profile (but it’s set to private so there is no point in trying to stalk him online).

NUMBER CRUNCH 2008

104

73 24 5 4

the year Dave (while injured) helped coach the club’s Colts side to glory, before returning to duty with both Uni and the Waratahs n kgs - the weight of this loose forward who has steadily developed his prowess as a second rower n cm - Dave’s vertical jump, giving him a significant advantage in power and speed n the number of hours of Dave’s time spent training for rugby each week n the number of Super 14 caps Dave has racked up playing for the Waratahs (at Rd 6 2010) n the number of tries Dave scored last season for Sydney Uni n

Photograph by PAUL SEISER

2

DAVE DENNIS

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‘Support your faculty to the end of Semester 1!’

INTERFACULTY SPORT Free to Participate 5th May 11am-4pm

Netball

19th May 11am-4pm

Ultimate Frisbee

26th May 11am-4pm

HK Ward Gymnasium The Square

Badminton

HK Ward Gymnasium

Want to Compete?

Contact your faculty’s sports representative to get involved! interfac@sport.usyd.edu.au Ph: 9114 1484 www.susf.com.au

Proudly Sponsored By

Grab yourself a full-priced hoodie and receive a further 20% off any sale item.

www.coop-bookshop.com.au

*Offer available only between Mon 10 May and Wed 30 June, 2010.

While stocks last.

Only available to SUSF members.

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Photograph by KIM VERNON

3

NATALIE PORTER

Olympian and Sydney Uni Flames’ captain

Flames’ captain Nat Porter is not only an outstanding sportswomen but is also studying a Masters in Business at the University of Sydney.

She boasts a distinction average - ‘I have high expectations for myself,’ said Porter.

Unlike the average uni student, Nat’s up and active at 8am, riding to the gym at 9am to spend 30-45 minutes on cardio and 30-45 minutes on weights – if it’s a nice day she might even ride home via the beach to go for a swim/surf.

After powering up with four Weetbix with Two-Fruits, honey and skim milk, Nat focuses on either uni work or

‘work’ work (Nat is currently working for Flames’ sponsor Rising Stars) for a couple of hours. It’s then a quick lunch and a 1.5 hour commute from the Central Coast to the ACUVUE Sports Hall for 2 hours of intense team training, before heading home for a meal lovingly prepared by her mum!

Nat will spend around an hour checking emails and Facebook before trying to get 8 hours of sleep. ‘I check Facebook a lot! I check it in the morning and then several times during the day, and then again before I go to bed. It doesn’t help that I can also access it via my phone.’

NUMBER CRUNCH 2000

the average number of shots that Nat takes at training per week n 700 kilometres - the average distance that Nat travels to training each week n 92 the number of senior games Nat has played for the Opals, making her one of the most capped Australian players n 70 kgs - the average weight that Nat can bench press n 10-15 hours a week of online reading –marketing and money magazines, uni case studies and research n 6 the number of burritos consumed by Nat, if she makes them at home n 2 the number of times Nat bounces the ball before taking a foul shot n

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FIRST AID

FIRST AID. SECOND NATURE. A First Aid course gives life skills to not only teachers and coaches, but players and parents.

By Kate Gould EDUCATION PROGRAMS CO-ORDINATOR

J

Photograph by ISTOCK

ust after Christmas I was in a city bookshop and the woman in front of me just collapsed,” said Tanya, who has recently completed her First Aid course at Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness.

“It was really scary. I realised I had no idea at all of how to help her. I just stood there. Luckily, the shop manager had done First Aid. The woman had only fainted and she came to fairly quickly, but it could have been so much worse.”

The natural desire to help others in need is within all of us - whether professionally in a medically-related field or just knowing what to do in an emergency.

First Aid is just that – it’s the first aid given to an injury or illness, which can be critical - and we never know when we might need to use it.

Learning First Aid with Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness could be the difference between life and death. “I now feel confident that I could help someone in an emergency. At least now I don’t think I would just stand by, feeling useless,” said Tanya.

The first step is to enrol in a First Aid course based on your skill level - we offer beginner, refresher and in-depth combined courses.

The ‘Apply First Aid’ course is nationally accredited, Aust Swim and WorkCover approved, and provides you with the skills, knowledge and confidence to deal with common accidents and injuries as well as medical emergencies.

It combines a single day of practical learning in the classroom with a flexible, online-learning workbook. Basically it’s the perfect course for busy people (and who isn’t?).

Refresher courses are for those wanting to update their current certificate, whether for personal or professional use. Although people remember most techniques from the First Aid class they took years ago, being updated with new

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Photograph by ISTOCK

medical techniques will benefit everyone.

Our CPR courses are run frequently as the certificate needs to be updated annually and provide current knowledge and skills required for basic life support.

Combined (First Aid & CPR) courses equip students with the practical and technical skills to apply the emergency action plan (DRABCD), learn CPR technique, use an automated external defibrillator (AED), treat unconscious casualties, use recovery positions, deal with various injuries, and bandage and splint.

SUSF instructors are skilled professionals with tertiary qualifications in health and sports education and have extensive first aid training through our first aid partner, the experienced Cynergex group.

As well as the highest quality trainers, SUSF offers you the flexibility to study either on location at our convenient inner city campus or to request in-house group courses, where our instructors will come to you. n Find out more from the education coordinator on 02 9351 8108, education@sport.usyd.edu.au or www. susf.com.au.

First Aid Courses.

NATIONALLY ACCREDITED AND WORKCOVER APPROVED Our first aid courses are ideal for coaches, teachers, students, employers, employees and all those interested or requiring first aid qualifications. We employ qualified, experienced trainers who hold tertiary qualification in health science/education, current Certificate IV in Workplace Training & Assessment and have current first aid training experience and knowledge.

For more info, please email education@sport.usyd.edu.au, visit www.susf.com.au or call 9351 8108.

UPCOMING COURSE DATES May: June: July:

5, 12, 15, 19, 21, 28.

2, 5, 9, 18, 23, 30.

9, 14, 23, 28, 31.

Alternative dates are available. Contact us for private group bookings, with only 10 participants required as a minimum.

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YOUR BODY

PERFORM AT YOUR PEAK WITH STRONGER ‘GLUTES’.

Prevent injury and improve your running by looking after one of your most valuable muscle groups.

By SALLY DONE PHYSIOTHERAPIST, PEAK PHYSIQUE Running is part of all our lives – whether it’s running competitively in the Sydney ½ marathon at the end of the month, running during a sporting match, running on the treadmill or simply running after your kids in the park.

When a runner comes to me with an overuse injury to their lower limbs, one of the first examinations I do is to look at their butt control, in particular gluteus medius. The gluteus medius is responsible for lifting the leg away from the body, helping it to rotate inwards and outwards and crucially, keeping the pelvis stable in certain situations, including the stance phase of running. While you are running, this is highlighted - the muscle contracts as you are dynamically balanced on one leg to prevent the pelvis

from tilting out to the side (similar to how a model walks). If the gluteus medius is not functioning well enough to achieve this control, the runner is at higher risk of overload injuries lower down the leg.

Research shows that runners who have weak or easily fatigued gluteus medius muscles, unconsciously modify their running style to compensate for the weakness and lack of pelvic control.

These adaptations to technique impair the runner’s performance and increases the risk of injury. So what injuries have I been treating of late?

Typical injuries that come into the clinic at PeakPhysique Physiotherapy in the last month include: • Tendonopathies of the gluteals, groin, achilles and peroneals;

Our physiotherapists treat: • • • •

Aches & pains Sports injuries Neck & back pain Accredited providers for work related injuries

L PILATES NOW ALSO OFFERING CLINICA IOTHERAPIST, HYS UR P INTENSIVE CLASSES RUN BY O TO YOU. LLY ICA ECIF D SP SALLY DONE – CATERE

Preferred physio of Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness, including physios to: • • • • •

Sydney Uni Football Club Sydney Uni Flames & Wheelchair Flames Sydney Uni Soccer Football Club Sydney Uni Cricket Club Sydney Uni Elite Athlete Program

In the Sports Clinic, Arena Sports Centre Western Ave, Sydney University www.peakphysique.com.au | 9351 8119 32 ROAR

• • •

Stress fractures to the femur, shins and foot; Patello-femoral knee pain and ITB friction; and Shin splints.

What can you do to prevent these injuries, and achieve your peak performance when running? The answer is strengthen your gluteus medius to improve the stability of your pelvis.

One of the easiest and most effective exercises are clams (see below).

I hope with this extra knowledge you will not sustain any overuse injuries as you intensify your training for the upcoming marathon or for your sporting season, allowing you to attain your peak performance. n

The Science of Success What makes our peak performers, peak performers?

R

esearchers in the field of sport performance enhancement are constantly looking into key areas including training, nutrition, equipment and technique - to determine the medal-winning prospects of top athletes.

Their research is aimed at measuring performance enhancements that affect the success of individual elite athletes in their competitive events.

In light of the recent controversy caused by the advancement of swim suits, the manipulation of sporting equipment

and apparel is under constant scrutiny by sports officials and the media. But what part should technology play in sport?

And are our elite performers destined to outperform their predecessors through the increased use of technology?

Called “technological doping” by critics, the revolutionary swimsuits were responsible for a wave of world records - 17 long-course marks in 2009 and more than 130 overall, starting in 2008. A ‘wild west’ atmosphere consumed apparel manufacturers and swimmers trying

to gain a competitive edge. But not everyone was caught up in the hype - ‘A swimsuit’s a swimsuit,’ said Phelps, who fellow American Olympic gold medallist Gary Hall once said could roll out of bed ‘in rags and cut-offs and still break the world record.’

Researching Peak Performance It seems ideal that Sydney University not only boasts Australia’s best Elite Athlete Program, but also has a leading Exercise Health and Performance ROAR 33

Photograph COUTESY JAKE MICHAEL

RESEARCH

Research Group within the Faculty of Health Sciences. And who better to undertake the research than the athlete who lives, breathes and sleeps the sport!

Jake Michael is a PhD student within the Exercise Health and Performance Research Group of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Sydney.

Jake is also a Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness “Blue”, and a current NSWIS and AIS Scholarship holder for flat-water kayak.

In 2005 he completed an undergraduate degree in Exercise and Sport Science with honours and commenced his PhD in 2006, under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Richard Smith and Dr. Kieron Rooney. Jake also represented Australia at the International Canoe Federation World Cup and the World Championship events from 2006-2009.

Jake’s PhD – ‘Physiological Responses to Kayaking with a Swivel Seat’ – is an investigation into the physiological and biomechanical effects on paddling performance during flat-water kayaking.

Or in layman’s terms, how does a ‘swivel’

kayak simulator. The study recorded simultaneous measurements of paddle, foot and seat force, power output and breath by breath gas analysis. These measures were then used to calculate the paddler’s gross efficiency.

Paddling with the swivel seat generated significantly greater average power output over the two-minute race than where the paddler had a fixed seat.

The increase was approximately 6.5%.

Interestingly, there was no significant difference recorded in the metabolic load over the two-minute ergometer test.

Paddlers using the swivel seat had an increase in efficiency of close to 7%, meaning the paddlers were able to generate greater power without an increase in the metabolic demand for the entire race. The history books could have looked extremely different if a swivel seat was present. And potentially that man, who missed the podium in fourth place, could have in fact recorded a winning time based on the increased efficiency that a swivel seat could provide.

Let’s face it, we are not using kayaks made of a whalebone and driftwood frame, with a sea-lion skin stretched tautly over it, waterproofed with whale fat anymore! seat which allows greater rotation of the trunk during paddling affect a paddler’s technique and performance?

A Study or a Search for Gold?

Australians are good paddlers - at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008, Australia won gold in the men’s 500m K1 race in a time of 1:37.252. Yet the difference between first and fourth place was less than 0.7 seconds. In such a hotly contested race, any time which could be shaved off would make an enormous difference to a paddler’s competitiveness.

The research undertaken at Sydney University reviewed the performance of ten elite paddlers during an ergometer kayak test (for those non-paddlers/ non-rowers, an ergometer, erg or ergo is a machine that simulates the conditions of actually paddling on water), on a specially designed air-braked 34 ROAR

Where is the finish line?

Using technology to improve performance isn’t a new thing. Tennis racquets have become lighter, footballers are all wearing compression garments, and cricket bats are getting thicker and wider.

Let’s face it, we are not using kayaks made of a whalebone and driftwood frame, with a sea-lion skin stretched tautly over it, waterproofed with whale fat anymore! Kayaks have evolved with technological advancements - they have been made from wood, fibreglass and in the early 1980’s, rotomolded plastic kayaks became available. It is unlikely that officials will make athletes revert back to kayaks made of whalebone, driftwood and animal skin – but where will the line in the sand be drawn?

If at all! n

BY LEA CARSWELL & SHARI WAKEFIELD

Jake combines his outstanding talent on the water with an advanced knowledge of the science behind the

Photograph COUTESY JAKE MICHAEL

technique.

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FOR THE KIDS

SYDNEY’s HOME FOR JUNIOR SPORTS STARS. BEING A UNIVERSITY BASED SPORTING ORGANISATION, SOME MAY WONDER HOW MANY, IF ANY, OF OUR FACILITIES AND CLUBS CATER TO A JUNIOR COMMUNITY?

By LUKE MADIGAN

S

ydney Uni Sport & Fitness is home to hundreds of elite sportsmen and women, but it’s just as focused on promoting participation in junior sport.

The sporting organisation is home to professional teams like the Sydney Uni Flames (women’s basketball) and the Shute Shield winning Sydney University Football Club – but it is also the base for a myriad of junior sporting clubs.

Here at Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness, we see that supporting grassroots sport is important, and that is why we are all about increasing participation in sport and getting more youths involved in physical activity.

Photograph by Fred etter

Joining a Club Whilst some clubs may hold elite junior programs, others are solely participation based. And there are outstanding links made between such programs, as elite sport is an important way of keeping kids interested in sport, by providing them with positive role models.

SUSF offer the following junior sporting teams:

A ROARING SUCCESS: The Sydney Uni American Football Juniors – The Cubs – have won more State Titles than any other team in the competition.

Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness is a sponsor of the CumberlandCourier Newspaper Group’s Junior Sports Star Award – recogniSing outstanding SPORTING potential within our LOCAL community.

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• AFL has built a Colt’s program in recent years to support the local junior clubs and to further develop the code within the Sydney area. For more information contact administration@ suanfc.com • American Football began a Cub’s program in 1994 and in the 16 years of competition, they have won more state titles than any other team.

For more information contact americanfootball@sport.usyd.edu.au • Cricket enters a team in the U16 Boys Sydney Cricket Association

competition known as the Green Shield. For more information contact cricket@sport.usyd.edu.au • The Universities Women’s Cricket Club enter a team in the U15 Sydney women’s cricket competition known as the Sydney Rivers Competition.

For more information contact cricketwomen@sport.usyd.edu.au • Hockey fosters junior mixed teams in the U11, U13 and U15 age groups.

The Club also fields a U15 team in the Sydney Wide Metro competition, which is arguably Australia’s best junior hockey competition. For more information contact juniorhockey@ suhc.asn.au • Judo runs a dedicated children’s program, designed for kids between the ages of 6 and 12. All levels of experience are catered for. For more information contact judo@sport. usyd.edu.au • Football provides an opportunity for children to learn and play rugby from ages 5 to 17 years. Both girls and boys are welcome. For more information head to www.sydneyunirugby.com. au • Soccer enters teams in the NSW Youth Super League for boys and NSW Youth Premier League for Girls. For more information head to www.susfc.org.au • Swim offers both the opportunity to ‘learn to swim’ and train using the knowledge and skill of outstanding trainers like Vanessa Smith. For more information contact swimschool@ sport.usyd.edu.au

• Volleyball has established a Youth development program. For more information contact volleyball@ sport.usyd.edu.au

FIRST CLASS FACILITIES: With growing importance placed on the health and fitness of children, Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness has developed a School Sport Program using the first class facilities and equipment available at Sydney’s oldest and most prestigious university.

Photograph by Fred etter

School Sport and School Holiday Programs With growing importance placed on the health and fitness of children, Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness is working with schools to help them run their school sports programs – using our elite athletes and our first class facilities.

SUSF School Holiday Sports Camps aim to give every participant an enjoyable and positive experience.

Campers gain the health benefits of an active life and also see that coming along and participating is a great way to meet friends and try new sports. n

Photograph by SHARI WAKEFIELD

Whether it be shaping the next Wallaby or simply making a child smile as they realise that they can accomplish what they set their mind to, Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness see it as our role to build confident and happy youths.

(Above) MAKING A SPLASH: Not only does Sydney Uni Swim Club offer a junior component which provides squad training and competition opportunities – it also runs ‘Learn to Swim’ classes through the Sydney Uni Swim School.

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CLUBS Join a club! There are so many to choose from and they’re open to everyone.

country. The club is for athletes of all abilities from elite to social, and from undergrads to veterans.

The club competes in a wide range of competitions around Australia including national and state championships, state relays and Athletics NSW all-comers events, in both the summer (track) and winter (cross country/road walks) seasons.

For more information go to: www. suac.org or Email: athletics@sport.usyd.edu.au

AFL The Sydney University Australian Football Club, run entirely by its members, is the oldest Australian Rules Club in NSW and the fourth oldest in Australia. The men’s club has six teams competing in the Sydney Football Association, providing opportunities for both elite players and beginners. The women’s club is continuing to grow with two teams competing in the Sydney Women’s AFL competition. Over the past 25 years the club has won seven Senior first grade flags and have been runners up five times.

For more information go to www. suanfc.com.au or Email: (Men) australianfootball@sport. usyd.edu.au (Women) anfwomen@

Photograph by Fred etter

sport.usyd.edu.au

American Football The American Football Club, established in 1984, fields an open team (Sydney Uni Lions in Division 1) as well as an under 18 team (Sydney Uni Cubs in the Colts Division) in Gridiron New South Wales, the highest level of competition for

38 ROAR

American Football in the state.

The Lions have won 11 NSW championships in the 26 years of competition, including the past 7 years consecutively. The Sydney Uni Cubs have won 7 NSW championships in their 15 years of competition.

For more information go to www. sydneyunigridiron.com or Email: americanfootball@sport.usyd. edu.au

Archery The Sydney University Archery Club, established in the 1970s, caters to all levels of archery, from the beginner to the elite.

Members compete in various competitions through Archery NSW and Archery Australia at club, state and national levels.

Currently the club has a member ranked in the top 20 in the Australian Ranking list.

Email: archery@sport.usyd.edu.au

Athletics The Sydney University Athletics Club, established in 1878, is one of the oldest athletics clubs in the

Badminton The Badminton club provides open opportunities for men and women, from elite to beginner players. The Badminton Club is affiliated with the Sydney Badminton Association Inc. and competes in all of the association’s tournaments, as well as various intervarsity competitions throughout the year, including the Australian University Games and the Eastern University Games.

For more information go to: www.

National Basketball League.

The Sydney Uni Flames take pride of place as our signature women’s program.

For more information go to: www. sydneyuniflames.com.au or Email: basketball@sport.usyd.edu.au (Flames) flames@sport.usyd.edu.au

Boat (Men’s Rowing) The Sydney University Boat Club was established in 1860. The club, together with the women’s rowing club, competes as Sydney University in the club, State and National Championships and includes members of the Australian squad. For the past few years Sydney University has been the leading competitive rowing club in New South Wales. The club has won the Honours Trophy at the NSW Championships for scoring the most points at the championships for the last eight years. Also, at the 2009 National Championships, the club won the “Centenary Oar” for the most points.

usydbadminton.com or Email: badminton@sport.usyd.edu.au

For more information go to: www. subc.org.au or

Baseball The Cynics, established in 1904, fields three teams that are open to both students and the community. The club plays in the Sydney Winter Baseball League, the highest level league in NSW. Their Pacific Coast team plays in a more social league to foster development among players.

The club is a great place to play baseball, and is always looking for new members.

Email: boat@sport.usyd.edu.au

Boxing The club offers something for all levels, from non-contact aerobic fitness classes to amateur competition for men and women.

Training is held in a dedicated boxing gym at HK Ward Gymnasium.

For more information go to: www. subxc.com.au or Email: boxing@sport.usyd.edu.au

For more information go to: sydneyunibaseball.com.au or Email: baseball@sport.usyd.edu.au

Basketball The Sydney University Basketball Club has both men’s and women’s teams playing in various Sydney competitions. In 2004, Sydney University took ownership of the Sydney Uni Flames, which competes in the Women’s

Canoe/Kayak The Sydney University Canoe Club caters to all levels of people who just want to paddle! The student and alumni run organised trips around NSW for beginners as well as trips for those who want to take on high grade rapids.

The club conducts white water canoe/kayak weekends and competes in canoe polo leagues

Photograph by Fred etter

READY? OKAY!

By Shari Wakefield

We’re strong and we’re loud!

We’re gonna make you proud!

Let’s go Lions!

We are the Lions!

The mighty, mighty Lions!

GO SYDNEY UNI LIONS! Cheerleading is a sport that combines elements of tumbling, jumps, stunts, dance and gymnastics, to build a routine, usually from 3 - 5 minutes long. Not only can Cheering be used at various sporting events to encourage audience participation, but it is also a competitive sport in its own right.

Cheerleading originated in the United States, and remains a predominantly American activity, with an estimated 1.5 million participants in all-star cheerleading.

The sporting world’s exposure was led by the 1997 start of ESPN International broadcasts of cheerleading competitions and the worldwide release of the 2000 film, ‘Bring it On’.

There are now an estimated 100,000 cheerleaders participating outside of the US in countries like Australia, Canada, China, Colombia, Finland, France, Japan,

The Netherlands, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Cheerleading at Sydney University began in 2002.

‘It is growing in popularity in Australia, but I think there are still a lot of misconceptions about what ‘cheerleading’ at Sydney Uni is really about. It isn’t about ‘cheering’ for other teams on the sidelines, but it is about performing a routine in front of a crowd,’ said Club President Trieste Corby.

‘It isn’t necessarily about pom poms either, although there is a separate dance discipline that some teams compete in at National competitions, combining dance and pom poms.’

‘It is a sport that demands a lot of strength, as stunting largely involves lifting your team mates above your head in various poses. Equally, it demands a lot of coordination and teamwork, because one wrong move could cause your ‘flyer’ to fall to the ground - and you always need to be ready to catch your ‘flyer’ before that happens!’ n If you’re interested, why not email gymnastics@sport. usyd.edu.au?

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Photograph COURTESY KENDO CLUB

THE WAY OF THE SWORD

By Shari Wakefield

Kendo is the Japanese form of sword fighting or fencing.

Its name literally translates as “the way of the sword”.

You know that Sydney Uni has all of the ‘traditional’ sports like rugby, cricket, rowing and athletics – but did you know that it also has a wide range of Asian martial arts including Judo, Kempo Karate, Kendo and Tae Kwon Do? These sports are not only based on physically building the body, but also controlling the mind, body and spirit through the adherence to the laws or guidelines to becoming a better person and being able to successfully contribute to society. You may think that this sounds a little deep for “stick whacking”, but in fact sport is a wonderful way of building friendships, fostering teamwork and creating a sense of community.

Put simply, Kendo looks a lot like Japanese fencing.

Participants who observe Kendo are known as “kenshi” (swordsman) or “kendoka” and wear facemasks much like traditional fencers. The Kenshi also wear body armour to

40 ROAR

protect certain areas of the body from hard blows and strikes, which makes this form of martial art unlike many others.

Kendo competitors use long bamboo staffs, called Shinai, instead of actual swords. Kendo is generally comprised of strikes using the shinai to specific areas of the opponent’s body – generally the head or neck.

However, the neck is a target used only by experienced Kenshi due to the potential for dangerous injury from a swift or inaccurate strike to the neck.

And in terms of the workout – well, you’re gaining the wonderful attributes of upper body strength, agility, and coordination, not to mention burning a total of 1200 calories in the average session. That’s equivalent to 40 minutes of swimming, 90 minutes of rugby or a whopping 5 hours of gardening!

Feel free to come along to a Kendo training session at HK Ward Gymnasium (go to www.usydkendo.com for more information) or email kendo@sport.usyd.edu.au. n

For more information go to: www. succ.canoe.org.au or Email: canoe@sport.usyd.edu.au

Cricket The men’s club has eight teams that compete in the Sydney Grade Competition that caters from the elite to social player.

The Universities Women’s Cricket Club also has 1st and 2nd and U15 grade competing in the Sydney Women’s Grade Competition. The women’s club also organizes a twilight 12 over social competition.

trampolining, acrobatics and aerobics. The Club supports artistic gymnasts competing yearly in State Stream, invitational and Masters Competitions.

As well as this, the Club features a Nationally-ranked cheerleading program. This program includes a cheerleading and dance team, and competes regularly in National and State competitions.

For more information go to: www.sug. gym-oz.net or Email: gymnastics@sport.usyd.edu.au

au or

Handball The club enters men’s and women’s teams in the NSW Handball League. It is open to everyone from beginners to international representatives.

During summer, the club plays Beach Handball and arranges social competitions for those interested in trying out the game.

Email: (Men) succ@sport.usyd.edu.au

Email: handball@sport.usyd.edu.au

For more information go to: (Men) www.sydneyuniversity cricket. com.au or (Women) www.uwcc.com.

Kempo/Karate The club conducts classes for all levels throughout the year, focusing on self defence skills and coordination.

Email: kempokarate@sport.usyd. edu.au

or (Women) uwcc.secretary@gmail. com

Cycling and Triathlon The Sydney University Cycling and Triathlon club became part of the athletics club in 2008. It enters competitors in a number of cycling and triathlon events throughout the year, including the Australian University Championship, NSW State Cup and NSW Club Championships.

For more information go to: www. suac.org or Email: athletics@sport.usyd.edu.au

Fencing The Sydney University Fencing Club is the oldest University fencing club in NSW, founded in 1945. The club, consisting of more than 100 members presently, welcomes members of all standards. The club has a large amount of equipment available for the use of members, offering training with foil, epee and sabre.

For more information go to: www. fencing.soc.usyd.edu.au or Email: fencing@sport.usyd.edu.au

Gymsports The Sydney University Gymsports Club is a thriving recreational and competitive club for adults. The Club features a very social general gymnastic program, welcoming gymnasts from all disciplines, including artistic gymnastics,

Hockey The Sydney University Hockey Club is one of our largest clubs with numerous men’s, women’s and junior teams. The men’s teams play in Premier A Sydney competition while the women compete in both the Eastern Districts Women’s Hockey Competition and the Sydney Women’s Hockey League. The club sends teams to University Games.

For more information go to: www. suhc.asn.au or Email: hockey@sport.usyd.edu.au

Judo The Sydney University Judo Club is the oldest judo club in Australia, founded in 1954 by Gary Grennan and Andy Shepherd. The club competes in all levels of judo competition, from national and state to local competitions and Australian University Games.

SUJC is run by students, has black-belt instructors with international experience, and is the most affordable judo club in NSW. Over the last four decades, SUJC has trained nine Olympians and numerous Australian representatives.

For more information go to: www. judo.soc.usyd.edu.au or Email: judo@sport.usyd.edu.au

Kendo Since 2004, Sydney University has offered Kendo, a traditional Japanese fencing martial arts practiced by the samurai. Today it is both a martial art as well as an internationally competed sport. The club practices kendo to cultivate one’s mindfulness, respect and diligence, through physical training. A practitioner is able to achieve high sense of reflex, alertness, fitness, speed and coordination. The club is for all levels of students, with beginners’ courses and active participation to all level of tournaments.

For more information go to: www. usydkendo.com or Email: kendo@sport.usyd.edu.au

Netball The Sydney University Netball club, recently joined as a part of the City Of Sydney Netball Association, is open to all abilities. The club has three teams entered in the NSW State League competition and a team in the NSW Regional Inter-district competition. Social players can compete in the weekend club and social competitions. The club also sends women’s and mixed teams to the University Games.

Rock Climbing and Mountaineering The Sydney University Rock climbing and Mountaineering Club is not a competitive club. Instead, it fosters the development of rock climbing as a social sport for men and women. SURMC runs trips on weekends to give members the opportunity to climb outdoors during the semester, as well as indoor climbing which takes place all year around at The Ledge.

There are opportunities for elite climbers in the club to compete in state and national events; however there are currently no members involved in these competitions.

For more information go to: www. surmac.org.au or Email: rockclimb@sport.usyd.edu.au

RowinG The Sydney University Rowing Club was established in 1960s. The club, together with the men’s boat club, competes as Sydney University in the club, State and National Championships and includes members of the Australian squad. For the past few years Sydney University has been the leading competitive rowing club in New South Wales. The club has won the Honours Trophy at the NSW Championships for the scoring most points at the championships for the last eight years. Also, at the 2009 National Championships, the club won the “Centenary Oar” for the most points.

For more information go to: www.

For more information go to: www.

sydneyunirowing.org or

sunetball.com.au or

Email: rowing@sport.usyd.edu.au

Email: netball@sport.usyd.edu.au

ROAR 41

Photograph by Fred etter

and tournaments around Sydney.

The club also utilizes a canoeing facility at the Penrith Whitewater Course.

Rugby League The club has 2 teams and welcomes new members. The club also encourage and supports players to participate in NSW and Australian representative teams.

For more information go to: www. sydneyunirugbyleague.info or Email: rugbyleague@sport.usyd.edu.au

Rugby Union The Sydney University Football Club is one of the strongest clubs in the NSW rugby union competition. The Club caters for a range of players through to the elite level. The Club won the Club Championship for the sixth successive time in 2008, along with the Colts Club Championship for the fifth successive time, 1st Grade Premiership, Colts 1 Premiership, Colts 2 Premiership and Colts 3 Premiership. The women’s club enters a team in the Sydney competition.

For more information go to: (Men) www.sydneyunirugby.com.au (Women) www.sydneyuniwomen. rugbynet.com.au or Email: (Men) sufc@sport.usyd.edu.au or (Women) rugbywomen@sport.usyd.edu.au

Sailing and Boardsailing The Sydney University Sailing Club is based down out of Woollahra Sailing Club in Rose Bay on the harbour. The club runs courses for university students in partnership with WSC under the YA/RYA training scheme. Members participate in club, state and national class events using the club boats. The intensive courses are run during the semester and cover everything from start sailing through to start racing. A number of weekend social trips are organised each semester which provide the perfect opportunity to escape the city for pure sailing.

For more information go to: www. usydsailing.com or Email: sailing@sport.usyd.edu.au

Ski The Sydney University Boarders and Skiers Club, established in 1997, hosts approximately 2000 members and is the largest Sporting and Recreational University Club in Australia.

For more information go to: www. subski.net or Email: ski@sport.usyd.edu.au

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Soccer The Sydney University Soccer Football Club caters for players of all abilities from elite to beginner.

It enters both men’s and women’s teams in the NSW Super League.

It also enters a large number of men’s teams in the Eastern Suburbs Football Association and women’s teams in the Gladesville/ Hornsby competition.

competitions as well as University Games. We meet at HK Ward Gymnasium regularly during the week with coaching available.

important social aspect and remains competitive at University Games where the club has posted excellent results since the sport’s inclusion.

For more information go to: www.

For more information go to: www.

usydtt.org or

suufl.uflnsw.com.au or

Email: tabletennis@sport.usyd.edu.au

Email:ultimatefrisbee@sport.usyd. edu.au

Softball Softball has been very successful over the years at the Australian Uni Games, and will be looking to defend the title in October. All players are welcome!

Taekwondo The Taekwondo club, started in 2001 welcomes people of all experience levels the opportunity to learn the Korean martial art and Olympic sport of Taekwondo.

Classes teach kicking, sparring, self-defence and the core traditional aspects of Taekwondo such as spirit, focusing on improving an individual’s health and fitness while learning in a fun, safe and social environment.

Email: softball@sport.usyd.edu.au

For more information go to: www.tkd.

For more information go to: www. susfc.org.au or Email: soccer@sport.usyd.edu.au

Squash The Sydney University Squash Club provides an ideal opportunity for players of all abilities to improve their game. The club members play in competitions against other squash clubs in Sydney as well as fielding men and women teams that compete in the Sydney Pennant Squash Competition. Club members who are students are eligible to play Inter-Varsity against other universities. The Club also provides free practice twice a week.

soc.usyd.edu.au or

For more information to go: www.

Email:taekwondo@sport.usyd.edu.au

suvolleyball.com or Email: volleyball@sport.usyd.edu.au

Tennis Founded in 1885, the Sydney University Lawn Tennis Club enters teams in the Metropolitan Grass Courts Clubs Association Badge competitions and other competitions conducted by Tennis NSW and the NSW Hardcourt Tennis Association. The club organises weekly social tennis for club members at the Manning lawn courts. The Tennis Club’s representative teams compete annually at the Australian University Games.

Water polo The Water polo Club provides opportunities for members to play water polo at all levels. The club has junior programs, social teams and beginner teams right up to first grade. Both men’s and women’s teams compete in the National Water Polo League.

For more information go to: (Men) www.sydneyunilions.com.au or (Women) www.suwaterpolo.com Email: (Men) suwtc@sport.usyd.edu.au or (Women) waterpolowomen@sport.

For more information go to: www. squash.soc.usyd.edu.au or

Volleyball The Sydney University Volleyball Club enters men’s and women’s teams into the Australian Volleyball League, as well as teams in local and state competitions.

The club has done particularly well in University competitions, with the men’s team coming first in the country in 2000. Also, the men’s and women’s teams won the NSW University Games often over the past few years.

Email: tennis@sport.usyd.edu.au

usyd.edu.au

Touch Established in 2001, the Sydney University Touch Club provides opportunities for students to participate in touch in social to challenging competition, including University Games, Vawdon Cup and State Cup. The club conducts a weekly mixed competition providing students and community members the opportunity to play competitive touch in a social environment on a regular basis.

Water ski and Wakeboard The Water ski club informally began as early as the 1960s. The club offers an opportunity for all abilities to enjoy organised trips throughout the year. The club’s season runs from late September to late April, offering organised water ski days for members at Riverside Ski Park at Cattai, on the Hawkesbury , about one hour north-west of Sydney.

Email: squash@sport.usyd.edu.au

Swimming The Sydney University Swimming Club trains at the University Sports and Aquatic Centre. All levels of experience are catered for, from beginners to the elite.

The club competes in all levels of competition from club nights to state and national events, as well as Eastern and Australian University Games. In 2008, the club earned ‘Gold Status’, as one of Australia’s leading swimming programs.

usydwakeandski.com or For more information go to:www.

For more information go to: www.

sydney.touch.asn.au or

suswimclub.com.au or

Email: touch@sport.usyd.edu.au

Email: swimming@sport.usyd.edu.au

Table Tennis The club provides table tennis from the beginner to the elite level. It enters regional

For more information go to: www.

Ultimate Frisbee Sydney University Ultimate Frisbee is open to all ability levels, entering many local, state and national tournaments. It has an

Email: waterski@sport.usyd.edu.au

Wrestling The club welcomes all levels of wrestlers from beginners looking for a social sport experience to elite level competitors.

Email: wrestling@sport.usyd.edu.au

‘Blue&Gold’ THE SPIRIT OF SPORT AT SYDNEY UNIVERSITY

2010 ‘Blue & Gold’ Cricket Luncheon Towards the end of this year, the old enemy are coming to Australia for an Ashes Test Cricket Series. With that in mind, the 2010 ‘Blue & Gold’ Cricket Luncheon on Friday 19th February was co-badged as the Ashes 9 Months Out Cricket Luncheon.

The ‘Blue & Gold’ Club will also be staging an Ashes 9 Days Out Cricket Luncheon on Wednesday 17th November 2010.

The 19th February lunch was staged at the Four Seasons Hotel and it attracted a larger than usual number of Sydney Uni cricketers from the 1960s. This was because the Club’s historians, archivists, peer group leaders and Club chairman had got together to select the SUCC “Team of the 60s” as objectively as they could.

Over the next four ‘Blue & Gold’ Cricket Luncheons, Sydney Uni “Teams of the 70s, 80s, 90s and the first decade of this century” will be similarly announced. This will culminate in the announcement of the Sydney Uni “Living Legends” Team in 2014 – the year of the Sydney Uni Cricket Club’s sesquicentenary celebrations.

Ten of the twelve members of the SUCC “Team of the 60s” were present on the day, as were another four tables of their former team-mates. The team in batting order was as follows: 1. Jon Erby 2. John Everett 3. Bert Alderson (c) 4. Graham Dawson 5. Malcolm Ives 6. Rick Lee

7. Alan Crompton 8. Peter James 9. Mike Pawley 10. Bill Armstrong (deceased) 11. Trevor Osborne 12. David Fox (12th Man)

I WINTER 2010

Following the announcement of the team, Bert Alderson, Jon Erby and Mike Pawley represented their colleagues in an entertaining panel discussion about grade and intervarsity cricket in the 1960s. They all spoke very passionately about their time at the Sydney University Cricket Club. It was great for current SUCC cricketers at the function to witness the spirit and enthusiasm of this “team” of very good past players.

After the main course, Adam Spencer moderated a panel of cricket experts, comprising: • Mike Coward - our resident member of the Fourth Estate; • Jim Maxwell - the voice of ABC Cricket; • Dave Gilbert - Test cricketer and CEO of Cricket NSW; and • Stuart Clark - Test cricketer and Sydney University graduate With Adam’s help, the panel dissected the recent summer of cricket, with particular emphasis on its potential impact on the much anticipated Ashes Test Series later this year.

Applying the Chatham House Rule (what is said in the room stays in the room), Stuart Clark was especially forthright and amusing. Humour is infectious and no-one initiates it better than Adam Spencer. However, amongst the mirth, plenty of meaty issues were discussed in what was both a highly stimulating and entertaining segment.

Be sure not to miss the ‘Blue & Gold’ Ashes 9 Days Out Cricket Luncheon on Wednesday 17th November, when you’ll also get to meet the SUCC “Team of the 70s”. With the 1st Ashes Test in Brisbane the following week, this will be an exciting time for cricket enthusiasts. Book your places early on 9351 7958.

The SUCC Team of the 1960s: (L to R) Alan Crompton, Peter James, Rick Lee, David Fox, John Everett, Trevor Osborne, Bert Alderson, Mike Pawley, Graham Dawson, Jon Erby, with Mick O’Sullivan (SUCC Chairman) and presenter David Gilbert.

Clearly enjoying themselves – (L to R) Mike Coward, Jim Maxwell, Dave Gilbert and Stuart Clark, plus panel moderator Adam Spencer.

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‘BLUE & GOLD’ CLUB

Adam Spencer, at the lectern, with Ben McGlynn (right) and Jude Bolton (left) enjoy Tadgh Kennelly’s response to an insightful question.

Former SUANFC players enjoy an ale in the lobby before the show begins.

2010 ‘Blue & Gold’ Aussie Rules Luncheon ‘Blue & Gold’ Club members and their guests were back at the Four Seasons Hotel on Friday 9th April for the 2010 Aussie Rules Luncheon. The ‘Blue & Gold’ Aussie Rules Luncheon is always the first function each season to celebrate Australian Rules football with Sydney’s business community in the big end of town.

From the outset, there was an air of eager anticipation. This was the day before the Sydney Swans’ 3rd round game against Richmond at the SCG and Sydney Uni’s 1st round game against Balmain in Sydney’s Premier Division.

Following entrées, Adam Spencer chatted with Stuart Dew and Sam Crichton. Stuart is a dual AFL premiership winner (with Port Adelaide in 2004 and Hawthorn in 2008), who was famous for his raking left-foot kicks, which resulted in a great many goals from outside the 50-metre arc. Stuart joined the Sydney Swans in late 2009 as a development coach.

It was in that capacity that Stuart Dew met Sam Crichton. At the end of last season, Sam was plucked from Sydney Uni’s 1st XVIII to perform the role of a “Sydney AFL top-up player” in the 44 ROAR

Sydney Swans’ Reserves. Sam impressed and was invited to Swans’ pre-season training in the three months leading up to the draft period.

Stuart parried all of Adam Spencer’s questions magnificently.

He was both erudite and amusing – the audience thoroughly enjoyed Stuart’s anecdotes. Sam was clearly in new territory, but he quickly warmed to the task and won over the crowd with his relaxed disposition and youthful enthusiasm.

After wonderfully tender beef tenderloin (with truffle potato purée, wild mushrooms and merlot reduction), Adam Spencer moderated a panel of Sydney Swans’ player, comprising: • specialist midfielder, Jude Bolton; • attacking half-back, Tadhg Kennelly; and • half-forward speed machine, Ben McGlynn.

The Swans had started their season with a narrow loss to premiership favourites St Kilda and a solid away win against Adelaide. There was much talk of new recruit Ben McGlynn’s gopher-like performance on the previous weekend, when he consistently popped up in front of goals, having (according to Jude Bolton) found more space than Neil Armstrong and Buzz

2010 ‘BLUE & GOLD’ SPORTING FUNCTIONS n Friday 19th February “Ashes 9 Months Out” Cricket Luncheon from 12:00 noon at the Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney n Friday 9th April Aussie Rules Luncheon from 12:00 noon at the Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney n Friday 11th June Soccer Football Dinner from 7:00pm at The Grandstand Bar, Restaurant & Function Centre

Stuart Dew - Dual Premiership player and current member of the Sydney Swans Coaching Staff.

Centre Circle Members - Richard and Christine Cox – never miss the ‘Blue & Gold’ AFL Luncheon.

n Friday 30th July Rugby Luncheon from 12:00 noon at the Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney n TBA Water Polo Luncheon from 12:00 noon at the The Boathouse on Blackwattle Bay, Glebe n Friday 17th September Rowing Luncheon from 12:00 noon at the The Boathouse on Blackwattle Bay, Glebe n Wednesday 13th October Blues Association/SUSF Golf Day from 12:00 noon at St Michael’s Golf Club, Little Bay

Current SUANFC players – Jaime Crichton, Sam Crichton, Alex Lee, Ben Mankarious, Mark Egan and David Mitchell.

Aldrin combined! Ben kicked five goals in that match.

The Tadhg Kennelly story fascinated the audience. Tadhg grew up in Ireland as the son of a legendary All-Ireland Senior Football Championship winner.

He came to Australia in 1999 and endeavoured to learn the game of Australian Rules football. Tadhg was a good student. By the time he returned to Ireland early last year, he had played 158 games for the Sydney Swans and had been an integral member of the 2005 AFL premiership team.

In 2009, Tadhg returned to Gaelic football with his late father’s team, Kerry. It wasn’t until the end of the Gaelic football season that Tadhg broke into Kerry’s starting line-up. But on 20th September last year, Tadhg Kennelly

played the first 50 minutes of the AllIreland final, scoring two points and becoming the first person to win both an AFL Premiership and an All-Ireland Senior Football Championship.

Having ticked that box, the prodigal son has returned to the Swans injury free, highly motivated and with all of his old AFL attacking flair.

Our luncheon guests were in such a good mood that they didn’t even baulk at the Lobby Bar prices for postfunction cleansing ales! And to round out a terrific ‘Blue & Gold’ Aussie Rules Luncheon, both the Sydney Swans and Sydney Uni registered huge wins the next day.

n Wednesday 17th November “Ashes 9 Days Out” Cricket Luncheon from 12:00 noon at the Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney n Wednesday 24th November Xmas Hamper Golf Day from 12:00 noon at St Michael’s Golf Club, Little Bay n Wednesday 1st December Flames’ WNBL Lunch from 12:00 noon at WatersEdge Restaurant, Walsh Bay

For advanced table bookings (ensuring the best seats in the house) contact Rodney Tubbs on 9351 7958 or r.tubbs@sport.usyd. edu.au

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‘BLUE & GOLD’ CLUB

SPORTS AWARDS DINNER

Tony Sukkar from Buildcorp (the SUFC major sponsor) with Wallabies and SUFC’s own Dean Mumm and Berrick Barnes.

Photograph by DAVE STANTON

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) Professor John Hearn with Sportswoman of the Year Rosalyn Lawrence (Canoe).

Economics and Business Faculty Dean, Prof. Peter Wolnizer with Olympic Rower Liz Kell and Mary Howell.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) Professor John Hearn with Sportsman of the Year Francis Hegerty (Olympic Rower).

Foundation News On 3rd August 2009 the Senate formally terminated the University of Sydney Sport Foundation as established in June 2005, and then established the University of Sydney Sport Foundation in accordance with the model foundation rules as of 4th August 2010.

The Foundation is able to accept gifts directed to sport which are tax effective to the donor.

A new Foundation Council was established, and at the Inaugural General Meeting of the Foundation on 10th December 2009 a resolution with respect to the formation of sub-committees to be called Divisions was accepted. As a result 8 sub-committees (Divisions) were established.

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The Australian Rules Football Division was launched on 21st August 2009, and at year end had raised some $30k in confirmed gifts, with more pledged and yet to be realised.

At the end of 2009 the total accumulated funds in the Foundation were in excess of $800k, with a further $100K held in CPT accounts relating to scholarships.

This is almost double that held at the end of 2008.

A full copy of the Annual Report for the Foundation is to be found in the SUSF Financial Report.

DAVID COLLINS Foundation Officer

EVENTS MAY - JUNE 2010

CLUB HOME GAMES Date

Sport

Venue

More Info

30 April-2 May

Flames Wheelchair Basketball

Sports & Aquatic Centre

7 May

Rugby Union (v. Northern Suburbs)

on Oval No. 1

www.sydneyunirugby.com.au

8 May

Soccer (both Men and Women)

on Oval No. 1

www.susfc.org.au

8 May

Baseball (Ladies Day)

on Oval No. 2

www.sydneyuni.baseball.com.au

15 May

AFL (v. Wollongong)

on Oval No. 1

www.suanfc.com

15 May

Rugby League

at Henson Park

www.tertiaryleague.com.au

22 May

Rugby (v. Eastwood)

on Oval No. 1

www.sydneyunirugby.com.au

22 May

Rugby League

at Henson Park

www.tertiaryleague.com.au

23 May

Soccer (both Men and Women)

on Oval No. 1

www.susfc.org.au

29 May

Rugby Union (v. Gordon)

on Oval No. 1

www.sydneyunirugby.com.au

30 May

Baseball

on Oval No. 2

www.sydneyuni.baseball.com.au

6 June

Baseball

on Oval No. 2

www.sydneyuni.baseball.com.au

20 June

Baseball

on Oval No. 2

www.sydneyuni.baseball.com.au

26 June

Rugby Union (v. Penrith)

on Oval No. 1

www.sydneyunirugby.com.au

INTERFACULTY SPORT

5th May

Indoor Netball

HK Ward Gymnasium

All enquiries: interfac@sport.usyd.edu.au

19th May

Ultimate Frisbee

The Square

All enquiries: interfac@sport.usyd.edu.au

26th May

Badminton

HK Ward Gymnasium

All enquiries: interfac@sport.usyd.edu.au

11 May

SUSF AGM

The Grandstand

www.susf.com.au

27 May

SUSF will host the ‘Biggest Morning Tea’

At all facilities

www.susf.com.au

Photograph by PAUL SEISOR

Major SUSF Events

FOR ALL THE LATEST EVENT NEWS AND INFORMATION VISIT www.susf.com.au ROAR 47

OVER THE LINE

Graham Croker has been chronicling sport for various campus publications and websites at Sydney University for 20 years.

A wonderful innings: When James Rodgers tucked the bat under his arm and strode off St Paul’s College Oval in mid-March, Sydney University Cricket Club farewelled a legend, while Fifth Graders farewelled their inspirational team-mate as they bowed out in the semi-finals. James announced his retirement from the game after completing his 38th season with SUCC. During that time

he posted a century, collected 71 wickets as a leg-spinner in Second Grade between 197379 before switching his vocation to off-spin, celebrated his first premiership in 1980-81 and captained a few more after that, wrote the club’s history and became Patron of the 1864 Club. A book of cricketing reminiscences would be welcome, James, now that you have weekends at your leisure!

A worthy Honorary fellowship Honorary Fellowships are rare offerings to those who have made significant contributions to the University. Ann Mitchell was made an Honorary Fellow of the University of Sydney at the April 16 graduation ceremony in the Great Hall, and there has been no more worthy recipient. The award was for her contribution to cricket and to Australian women’s sport for nearly five decades. A teacher by occupation after graduating from the University with an arts degree and a Teaching Certificate, she represented the University in Cricket, Hockey and Softball and was awarded a University Blue for Cricket in 1963. In 1988 she became Executive Director of the Sydney University Women’s Sports Association and was involved in the rebuilding of the Women’s Sports Centre, the establishment of a sports medicine clinic and the development of the sporting scholarship program. She also devoted much time to mentoring and providing wise counsel to large numbers of young women to develop their sporting and academic potential, and worked for two years fostering the amalgamation of the women’s and men’s sporting bodies at the University. She then served as Deputy Director of Sydney University Sport until her retirement in 2004. Since retiring she has continued her involvement with University as President of the Sydney University Blues Association. Off the campus, Ann was President of the NSW Women’s Cricket Association from 1974-88; manager of the Australian Women’s Cricket team from 1977-88; President of Women’s Cricket Australia from 1988-98; and President of the International Women’s Cricket Council from 1982-88. She was the inaugural President of the Australian University Sports Federation (1992-94), and is currently on the Board of Australian University Sport. And that’s just a short list of her achievements. Above all, she’s a good sport. Congratulations Ann.

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Tough competition: With the introduction of sports scholarships in the early 1990s, most Sydney University sports have benefited from having leading athletes in the ranks. As the standards have improved, so has the quality of the performers, to the extent that in recent times the Sportspeople of the Year have invariably been world-class athletes. Last year was no exception with Olympic rowing silver medallist Francis Hegerty and World Cup winning canoeist Rosalyn Lawrence being the recipients of the 2009 Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year awards, recently announced at the Sydney University Sports Awards dinner in the Great Hall. Hegerty, a B.Com from the University and a silver medallist in the men’s coxless four at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, continued with that form in 2009 when he crewed with Cameron McKenzie-McHarg, James Marburg and Matthew Ryan to win silver in the same event at the World Championships in Poznan, Poland. Lawrence, a Sydney University sports scholarship holder and Bachelor of International and Global Studies student, capped off a stellar 2009 season as the overall winner of the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup series in the C1 class.

Lawrence won two of the three C1 races in the World Cup series.

Full cycle: Sydney University Football Club members Nathan Trist, Tim Davidson and John Morellato rode the last leg of the 2010 Pollie Pedal with organiser Tony Abbott, when the Melbourne to Sydney ride finished at the University on April 16. This year the Pollie Pedal was in support of the Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, which was established in the medical school at the University of Sydney in 2008. Monies raised will be used to fund Student Clinical Outreach Placements to regional and remote communities in western NSW and the Northern Territory. The Federal Opposition Leader started the Pollie Pedals in 1988 and they have since raised more than $1 million for various charities. Those who were at the University in the 1970s will remember Tony playing prop for SUFC and beginning his political career by wresting leadership of the Student Union. He then followed in the footsteps of other SUFC members Roger Davis (1974), Peter King (1975) and Michael L’Estrange (1976) by winning a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford in 1981.

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