Deakin spirit strong in Rio

As the world’s best athletes prepare for the Olympic Games to kick-off in Rio de Janeiro, Deakin University Vice Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander sent a message of congratulations to the members of the Deakin community representing Australia.

Twelve current Deakin students, five Deakin alumni and one staff member will compete in sports including swimming, long jump, sailing and taekwondo, while many more from the Deakin family will assist as officials and volunteers.

Professor den Hollander said “the breadth of students participating is impressive and I hope points to the supportive environment for elite athletes to study and prepare for their future careers. It also underlines Deakin’s deep strength in all aspects of sport education and research.

“Selection for the Olympic Games is the pinnacle sporting achievement for many athletes and is the result of determination, drive and a will to succeed – qualities that serve one equally well in life as in sport.

“On behalf of the Deakin community, I congratulate our current students and alumni in their achievements at being chosen to represent Australia at the highest level. They are Olympians and will always have this unique achievement to savour beyond whatever else they may achieve in Rio.

“I also recognise the Australian volunteers, coaches, and officials – including those associated with Deakin – who will be working night and day in Rio to make sure that the world’s largest event runs like clockwork.”

Deakin athletes competing at Rio include current students Damien Birkinhead (shot put), Josh Dunkley-Smith (rowing – four men), Belinda Hocking (200m backstroke), Travis Mahoney (200m and 400m Individual Medley), Luke Mathews (athletics – 800m and 1500m), Kotuku Ngawati (200m Individual Medley), Jaime Ryan (sailing), Lucy Stephan (rowing), Brooke Stratton (long jump), Zoe Buckman (athletics – 1500m), Alex Lloyd (rowing – men’s pair) and Sally Kehoe (rowing – double scull).

Deakin alumni include Rhydian Cowley (20km walk,), Henry Frayne (long jump), Carmen Marton (taekwondo), Jeff Risley (athletics – 800m), and Rowena Webster (water polo).

Deakin staff will be represented by Deakin University Student Association Student Advisor Chris Erickson (50km walk).