Notre Dame salutes its sporting representatives

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Spring 14-11-2011

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame, Sydney Campus

Publication Place

Sydney

Abstract

The University of Notre Dame Australia has recognised the sporting achievements of its students at the Sydney Campus Sports Awards Ceremony. The event celebrated the talent and dedication of top-performing athletes as well as the charitable works undertaken by sporting representatives.

The Sydney Student Life Office, who hosted the event, said they were pleased at the number of students participating in sport at Notre Dame.

“This year, participation reached an all-time high and all teams showed spirit and passion in representing Notre Dame,” said Sports Coordinator Matthew Bennett.

First year Bachelor of Commerce student, James Ashton-Maxwell, was named Sportsman of the Year for his participation in every significant sporting event in the University calendar.

“I was honoured to receive the award,” Mr Ashton-Maxwell said.

“I’ve really enjoyed the camaraderie of travelling with my teammates to different sporting events, including the Eastern University Games in Canberra, the Winter Games in Thredbo and the Australian University Games on the Gold Coast. Being involved in sport allows me to get to know other students and gives uni life another dimension outside the classroom.”

Prizes were awarded to students who demonstrated strong leadership skills, with Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Education student Melissa Jones taking out Captain of the Year and Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Commerce student Eden Christopher receiving the Spirit of the Games Award.

Also acknowledged on the night were the students on the Eastern University Games team, who contributed $600 to Notre Dame’s donation to Aberdare Ranges School in Kenya, a fund initiated by the School of Education for the construction of classrooms.

Third year Bachelor of Education student Matthew Taylor is travelling to Kenya in three weeks’ time to volunteer at the primary school and an adjoining orphanage. He says the money donated by his teammates will help improve the educational opportunities of underprivileged children.

“The new classroom is being paid for entirely by the fundraising efforts of the Notre Dame community,” Mr Taylor said.

“The Notre Dame group travelling to Kenya will present a cheque for $16,000 to the school. With this project, I hope to raise awareness about schools such as Aberdare Ranges Primary School and highlight the importance of education as a way out of poverty.”

Marianne Aliperti, Student Life Officer, said Notre Dame’s sporting teams are driven by a desire to contribute positively to the community.

“The donation typifies the generous nature of all our sporting teams,” Ms Aliperti said.

“The Awards Night is a good chance for them all to come together, reflect on the achievements of the year and have some fun.”

For further information please contact: Communications Officer, Elizabeth Fenech

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney Campus

T: 02 8204 4407 E: elizabeth.fenech@nd.edu.au W: www.nd.edu.au/

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