University launches support website

The University has launched a website to support its students competing at the Commonwealth Games.

Visitors to the site can send messages of encouragement to the athletes, read profiles and catch up with the latest news about their achievements.

Mr Deakes thanked his lecturers for their understanding when he addressed the launch Photo: Kimberly Douglas

Walker and law/commerce double degree student Nathan Deakes, who will be defending two gold medals at the games, helped launch the Celebrating Excellence: Commonwealth Games Website.

"On behalf of all the Commonwealth Games athletes, I applaud and thank the University of Canberra on the great initiative of the support website," he said.

"It is often these little things that honestly go a long way. And the invariably that extra support can be the difference between listening to Advance Australia Fair being played, or just missing that dream."

Mr Deakes emphasised the importance of preparing for life after sport and thanked his lecturers for the understanding they displayed as he balanced the twin commitments of study and international athletics.

Hosting the launch, dean of students Heather Prior described the "privilege" of meeting elite athletes in her work and helping them to establish the balance necessary to study and train.

"These students have impressed me very much," she said.

"Their commitment and dedication to the different areas of their life is simply inspirational.

"I feel very proud of all of these athletes, and I hope that you all will too - and will make the effort to let them know of your support."

Other athletes at the launch were 1500m runner Lisa Corrigan, long jumper Kerrie Taurima and Winter Olympian Esther Bottomley - the inspiration for the site.

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Last Updated on March 13, 2006