2006 Media Releases
Tuesday, 28 February 2006
Scottish team moves into La Trobe Pre-Games 'village'
La Trobe University’s Bendigo campus has set up a pre-Commonwealth Games Holding Camp for the 167-member Scottish team in the three-week lead up to the Games.
The first officials and athletes moved onto the campus early this week, with the rest to follow on the weekend.
The camp is being conducted for the team by La Trobe University in association with the Greater Bendigo City Council.
La Trobe University Director of Engagement and Enterprise, David Ensor, said the aim of the Holding Camp is to provide Scottish team athletes with the best possible preparation in the lead up the Games so that athletes can produce their best performance.
‘We are providing training facilities, competitive opportunities where appropriate, accommodation, food, recreation, local information as required – and a friendly and welcoming environment.’
Mr Ensor said the move follows the University’s success in accommodating more than a 1,000 competitors for the Youth Commonwealth Games on the campus in 2004. Some of these competitors and their families will be returning this week.
The camp also reflects the University’s commitment to sport, particularly as a member of the Australian Elite Athlete Friendly University Network.
‘It also helps highlight La Trobe’s emphasis on achievement and our overall support of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games as an important event for Victoria.’
Scottish Team Sports Manager, Susie Elms, said team members had left behind the icy chill of winter and were ‘overwhelmed by the welcome we have received and the support shown to us by the University and Bendigo community.’
Ms Elms said the Scottish team staying in Bendigo comprised athletes competing in basketball, rugby 7’s, shooting, triathlon, badminton, squash, hockey, bowls, weightlifting and athletics. There was also a medical team of doctors, physiotherapists and support staff.
For further information:
For further information please contact David Ensor Tel: (03) 5444 7847 or Email: d.ensor@latrobe.edu.au