Monash Sport News

University Games Endorsed by United Nations

The 2005 Australian University Games (AUG), to be held in Brisbane from 25 – 30 September, is one of the first official Australian sporting events to be endorsed by the United Nations.

In the framework of the commemoration of the International Year of Sport and Physical Education (IYSPE 2005), the United Nations has identified Australian University Sport (AUS), and in particular the AUG, as distilling the values of fair play, peaceful competition and the pursuit of excellence.

United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, in launching the IYSPE 2005 at the UN Headquarters, said that sport brings people together, teaches the ideals of teamwork and tolerance.

"People in every nation love sport. Its values – fitness, fair play, teamwork, the pursuit of excellence – are universal. The International Year of Sport and Physical Education is a reminder to Governments, international organisations and community groups everywhere to draw on the promise of sport to promote human rights, development and peace," said Mr Annan.

AUS Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Marsden, said the recognition of university sport in Australia by the United Nations further enforces the role of sport in the university system and its importance in education.

"At AUS our mission is to develop and provide sporting opportunities for university students. Recognition by the United Nations is a great compliment to our organisation and we are honoured to be ambassadors for the International Year of Sport and Physical Education in Australia," said Mr Marsden.

The 2005 AUG will showcase a record 26 sports, four more than those offered in previous years including athletics, australian football, badminton, baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, cross country, cycling, diving, hockey, judo, kendo, netball, rockclimbing, rowing, rugby union 7's, soccer, softball, squash, swimming, taekwondo, tennis, touch, ultimate frisbee, volleyball and water polo.

Since their inception in 1993, the Games have grown to be Australia’s largest and most diverse annual multi-sport event. The 2005 AUG will attract over 6,000 participants from universities across Australia.