Edith Cowan University (ECU) University Team Manager Belinda Somers says that winning the UniSport Western Spirit Award celebrates more than just athletic achievements. It also honours the exemplary conduct, team spirit and camaraderie exhibited by the university’s athletes who competed at the annual UniSport Nationals last month.
“I received a call with the exciting news of our award while we were at the airport heading home,” Somers says.
“This recognition reflects the collective effort and passion of everyone involved. I am so pleased as we have an incredible team that works closely with our staff and student leaders to ensure a consistent message about how we represent at ECU.
“This award shows that our team of ECU student-athletes and six coaches stood out as leaders both on and off the field.”
UniSport Nationals is an annual opportunity for students from 42 universities to test their sporting skills against each other in 31 different sports. In September 2024, more than 6,000 student-athletes from around Australia gathered in Canberra to compete for national titles.
The UniSport Western Spirit Award is awarded to the university team that demonstrates the highest standard of sportsmanship, conduct and positive engagement across the entire Nationals event.
In the words of UniSport Australia, ECU won this award for:
- excellent team spirit and interaction with opposing teams
- exemplary behaviour across all sports
- impeccable conduct, both on and off the field
- presentation in professional uniforms, as well as appropriate off-field attire
- punctuality and dedication in fulfilling all team duties
- willingness to assist other teams in meeting their obligations.
Nurturing lifelong connections
The athletic program at ECU is developed in collaboration with staff and student leaders and encourages interaction across all sports teams, while also fostering lifelong friendships and professional networks, Somers says.
This year’s event saw ECU represented by 98 athletes, including six dedicated sports coaches, with Somers as the overall university team manager. ECU’s Sport and Recreation Officer Kyla Devine and Hai Luu from Student Life also played integral roles in managing the teams.
Somers says their team’s standout performance was also thanks to the contributions of ECU alumni and community members who served as coaches – something she describes as a “true reflection of ECU’s commitment to supporting our athletes, not just during their time as students but well into their professional lives”.
“Together we achieved an amazing milestone, and I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved,” she says.
“It’s this dedication, unity and spirit that truly make these experiences unforgettable and create lifelong memories. I’m very proud to be part of such a special community.”
