UNE > News and Events > Browse by article > UNE supports elite athletes

Next UNE takes strong stance against homophobia and bullying December 12, 2005  

Previous Giant vegetables invade UNE December 8, 2005 

UNE supports elite athletes

December 09, 2005

Sport UNE fun runThe University of New England (UNE) has a proud history of nurturing and supporting student-athletes, many of whom represent state and country in their chosen sport.

UNE joined the Elite Athlete Friendly University (EAFU) Network a year ago strengthening its ability to facilitate student-athletes and the EAFU has been a tremendous success by providing flexibility for balancing sporting pursuits with academic requirements.

The EAFU requires universities within its network to make a number of commitments to ensure the relationship between elite athletes and their university has a formal framework to work from. Some of these commitments include the need for a nominated staff contact, the possibility for flexible study options, and a course entry system that considers a student’s sporting achievement/commitment.

Sport UNE Executive Director Steve Griffith has taken on the role of UNE’s nominated staff contact for the program and believes that the EAFU is a sensible approach to the relationship between universities and athletes.

“Our distance education program provides the ultimate flexibility for student-athletes who can modify their study program to suit their competition and training program,” Griffith said.

“For instance, Australia’s number one cross country skier, Katie Calder, is a great advocate of the system,” he added.

“Katie has been undertaking her Bachelor of Commerce degree while training and competing on the European Cross Country Ski circuit. She has been able to submit assignments electronically and sit exams overseas.”

While some universities are winding back sporting services to students UNE is fielding inquiries from several leading sporting bodies wanting to learn more of the flexible study options enjoyed by UNE’s external students.

For more information contact Steve Griffith on (02) 6773 3053 or Leon Braun (UNE Public Relations) on (02) 6773 3771.

Posted by Ben Glover at December 9, 2005 10:51 AM