May 30, 2024

Squadron Energy supports two UOW teams to compete at Indigenous Nationals

25 UOW students will compete in national sporting competition at the Wollongong campus

University of Wollongong (UOW) will field not one, but two teams to compete in the Indigenous Nationals at the Wollongong campus from 23-27 June.

The Indigenous Nationals is an annual week-long multisport event that unites students from universities across Australia to vie in a range of sports, ultimately determining the champion university team of the games. This year students will compete in basketball, netball, touch football and volleyball.

25 UOW students will compete as Team Miranda (Sea Eagle) and Team Birri Birri (Humpback Whale) in the 30-team competition with university students from every state travelling to Wollongong for the tournament.

Australia’s leading renewable energy company Squadron has come on board as Official UOW Team Sponsor and will assist the team with uniforms, equipment and registration.

“We are incredibly proud to support this fantastic event which unites Indigenous athletes from universities across Australia, showcasing the talent, dedication and achievements of the next generation of First Nations participants,” said John Allison, Squadron Energy’s Head of First Nations Engagement, who fondly recalls his own participation in the University games as a UOW student.

“Sport plays a huge part in bringing First Nations people and communities together. Squadron Energy remains committed to working closely with First Nations communities, groups and organisations across Australia and supporting initiatives that celebrate the culture and heritage, pride and empowerment of First Nations people.”

​Jaymee Beveridge UOW Vice President, Indigenous Strategy and Engagement said, “I just love the Indigenous Nationals.  As a former player and regular attendee, I have some incredible memories of my engagement with the games.  

“This year we are focusing on creating a real community environment, where students network and come together representing their Countries and respective Universities.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity having Squadron as the team's sponsor - their investment in the local community and our students is greatly appreciated,” Ms Beveridge said.

UOW Miranda (Sea Eagle) Team co-Captain, proud Dharug man Rhys MacLeod said he was looking forward to the competition.

“I’ve captained a couple of sports teams before, but I missed out on the Nationals last year with a back injury. This will be my first time at the Indigenous Nationals and I’m looking forward to connecting with other student sportspeople from around the country and having some fun during the comp.”

Birri Birri (Humpback Whale) Team co-Captain, proud Wailwan and Gamilaraay woman Josie Smith said the tournament was a great chance to pick up skills in less familiar sports and is looking forward to the gathering of Indigenous people from around the country.

“I’m a netballer so this has been a great opportunity to improve my footy skills.  

“I’m really looking forward to getting together with other Indigenous students – this is a huge event for mob from around the country to get together an celebrate our culture,” Ms Smith said.

Members of the public are invited to get involved by volunteering to help at the games. Registrations are now open online.