USQ students shine at national games
SPORT: University of Southern Queensland student athletes have returned from the Australian University Sport Nationals with a record medal haul.
USQ finished the competition with three gold, one silver and three bronze medals; the most the university has ever won at an Australian University Sport games.
The event provided the opportunity for students from 43 universities from across Australia to compete head to head in 47 different sports.
USQ claimed gold in lawn bowls and cheerleading while education student Ireland Lee won gold in shot put and silver in the heptathlon.
USQ elite athlete and Toowoomba student Amy Parker won bronze in the 5000m steeplechase, Toowoomba commerce student Jack Backer secured bronze in judo and the USQ dance team finished with a bronze.
A total of 30 students from Toowoomba, Ipswich, Springfield and Online represented the university at the Gold Coast event.
Student transition and enrichment coordinator Christopher Watson said USQ provided students with opportunities to participate in competitive and social sports, including access to competitions, facilities and equipment.
“USQ Sport recognises the benefits of sport, recreation and fitness to a healthy university community,” Watson said.
“Sport programs are proven to contribute toward higher levels of student recruitment, retention, completion of study and employability.”