Griffith University will have an impressive presence at the 2016 Olympics and Paralympics in Rio with 22 current or past students competing.
As an Elite Athlete Friendly University, the University supports student Olympians and Paralympians by helping them manage their study alongside their training commitments
The University currently has over 440 elite athletes (199 female and 241 male), one of the highest numbers in Australia.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian O’Connor said the University is proud of the role it plays in supporting elite athletes achieve their academic goals.
“We count some of the country’s top sports people among our students and alumni and it is great to see such a strong number of them representing Australia at the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.
The University will be screening the Olympic and Paralympic Games on campus and Professor O’Connor said he was looking forward to watching the athletes compete.
“We wish all of our athletes the best in Rio and they can be sure we will be cheering for them on campus,” he said.
Griffith University student Madi Wilson will debut at the Olympic Games this year, competing in the 100m backstroke.
“It would have to be one of the happiest moments of my life, looking up at the scoreboard and knowing all of my hard work and sacrifice had paid off,” Madi said of qualifying.
Madi is working towards a Bachelor of Social Work.
“Being able to study towards a degree whilst competing is obviously the best outcome for any athlete, as you can directly invest in your future.”
The Rio 2016 Olympic Games will be held 5-21 August with the 2016 Paralympics taking place shortly after on 7-18 September.
Griffith current students & alumni competing at the 2016 RioOlympic and ParalympicGames:
Alumni