UC opens new $16m Sporting Commons

Amanda Jones

17 July 2014: The University of Canberra's new $16 million Sporting Commons, including new headquarters for the University of Canberra Brumbies, ACTSport and sports studies teaching and research facilities, was officially opened by acting Chief Minister Andrew Barr today.

The University of Canberra Sporting Commons. Photo: Katherine Griffiths

The 3,300 square metre facility also includes three gymnasiums, medical/rehabilitation areas, plunge pools, a sauna, main oval and skills field, and a purpose-built bocce court for Special Olympics ACT. The ACT Sports Hall of Fame, UC Fit! and the UC Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UC-RISE) will also call the building home.
 
University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor Stephen Parker said the University is investing in sport for the region and the future.

"The completion of the Sporting Commons brings us a step closer to realising our goal of becoming Australia's leading sports university.

"This building will bring community and elite sport under one roof, while also adding significantly to facilities available for students and staff," Professor Parker said.

UC Brumbies flanker David Pocock (right) leads a tour of the new Sporting Commons, showcasing the facilities to the likes of UC Capitals star Lauren Jackson and Vice-Chancellor Stephen Parker (far left), Warren Snowden MP, acting Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA and Senator Kate Lundy (centre). Photo: Katherine Griffiths

Mr Barr said the partnership between the ACT Government, the University of Canberra and ACTSport would ensure Canberra is at the forefront of development and innovation in sport.

"The University of Canberra Sporting Commons will be the leading sports and research facility in Australia and will help grow the social and economic benefits of sport in the Territory," Mr Barr said.

"The benefits of co-locating community and elite sport at the University of Canberra include linking students with the sports industry, enhanced learning and industry resources and building economies of scale through co-location."

Vice-Chancellor Stephen Parker, acting Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA, UC Brumbies chairman Shaun Hammond and UCU chairman Mark Sullivan unveil the plaque for the new University of Canberra Sporting Commons. Photo: Katherine Griffiths

The centre will also offer and provide outreach opportunities for participation in sport and education to remote and rural communities in Southern NSW.

University of Canberra Brumbies chairman Sean Hammond said the team was delighted with the new headquarters.

"Never before have the UC Brumbies had everything under one roof. We now have access to a competition-quality pitch, state-of-the-art gymnasium, medical facilities and administration – all within the one building.

"To compete in the world's toughest provincial championship it's crucial that we are on an even playing field and this building makes that possible."

Funding for the University of Canberra Sporting Commons has been provided by the ACT Government, the University of Canberra and the ACT and Southern NSW Rugby Union (The Brumbies).