thewaterfront the official student newspaper of swansea university
And they’re off! MEMBERS of the Equestrian Society have swapped their jodhpurs for undies to raise money for two charities close to their hearts. The girls posed for the 2014 calendar back in April and their efforts are now on sale for £5. All money raised will go to Swansea-based Lluest Horse and Pony Trust and Cancer Research. Jennifer Tigwell, last year’s society secretary, said: “We’d like to thank the following people, as we wouldn’t have been able to do or make the calendars without them.” Photographers: Sam Pendlebury and Emily Peters, Editor: Christopher Dyer, Dinefwr Riding Centre, & Clearprint Solutions who have made the calendars free of charge. www.clearprintsolutions.co.uk The calendars will be on sale on eBay soon but in the meantime anyone who wants a calendar should email equestrian@swansea-union.co.uk
BUS BONANZA FOR SWANSEA STUDENTS by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk A NEW night bus service will be piloted this Wednesday to return students home safely from a night out — in the same week that National Express has announced a bus service from campus to London. The night bus will give priority to women and lone travellers and, if successful, will be extended to other nights of the week. Pickup point from town will be at St Mary’s Church, between Iceland and Primark, every 30 minutes from 12.30am until 3.30am. Contributions from Wind Street pubs and clubs are being used
to fund the scheme, with Idols, Bambu, Peppermint, Walkabout and Revolution picking up the tab. A spokesperson for Bambu & Peppermint said: “It’s great to be involved with such proactive activity like this because travel is always an issue for students at the end of the night, whether it’s lack of funds or long taxi queues, and many people decide to walk home, which after a few drinks can sometimes do more bad then good for the students.” The route will go from Wind Street, to St Helens Road, Bryn-y-mor Road, King Edward’s Road, Rhyddings Park Rd, Gwydr Crescent, Uplands Crescent, Sketty Road, up to the Student Village, then back via the campus (stopping at Fulton House), and then returning to
Wind Street. The bus will seat 78 and it will prioritise women and people on their own, but there will be no guaranteed seats available. Personal safety alarms will also be issued on the bus. The move is in reaction to the police being forced to shift resources from Friday nights to Wednesday nights, with more officers on Wind Street to deal with party revellers. Rosie Inman, students’ union women’s officer, who made the night bus an election pledge, said: “We’re so excited to be launching the Night Bus, as student safety is very important to us. We hope it will help students to make their way home safely on nights out, particularly those who are more vulnerable.”
The news comes in the same week as National Express has announced that a campus stop will be added to its London route. It will connect Swansea University, Swansea City, Port Talbot, Cardiff University, Bristol and London. National Express UK Coach Managing Director Tom Stables said: “Students need to be able to travel affordably while still enjoying comfort and convenience so we’re pleased increase our services to the Swansea University, making the return to campus, weekend breaks or journeys to other universities as easy as possible.” Coach Cards for the service, which cost £10 per year, give a third off fares using the services. The four daily 507 services will start from early October.
Free Issue 230 7 October 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
INSIDE NEWS
Remembering Mitch page 5 FEATURES
Freshers’ fayre in pictures page 24 SPORT
SUMFC rises to the challenge ahead pagepage 29 29
02 I NEWS
thewaterfront 07.10. 13
thewaterfront Third floor, Students’Union Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP (01792) 295 988 web: waterfrontonline.co.uk twitter: thewaterfrontSU facebook: the waterfront swansea
International students get a warm welcome by Samantha Booth
waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk
Editor Kay Byrne editor@swansea-union.co.uk News
Gemma Parry waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk Crime & Investigations
Chris Flynn waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk Front & Website
Jon May front@swansea-union.co.uk Features
Samantha Booth waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk
THE number of international students attending Swansea University is expected to be higher than ever this year and the students’ union and university is going all out to make them welcome. Eva Donoghue, the students’ union’s international officer, tells students where to go for advice and how to make the best of your experience in the city. “You can email me on international@ swansea-union.co.uk and remember the advice centre is also a good place to drop in to talk about any problems you are having. “One place I can’t stress enough to go is the International Student Advisory Service, located opposite the library, which is made up of a team of four advisors that are the most amazing people I’ve ever met when it comes to visas. Their success rates are incredible.
“Try out the new night Viva la Fiesta night in Oceana which will unite students from all countries to enjoy a different atmosphere. “Pop into some orientation talks that I’m giving in Café West on Wednesday 9th October. It’s everything from shops, bus passes, sports, the union, taxis, online shopping, and groceries and offers a chance for you to ask any questions you may have. “Many people are in the same boat as you. People struggle and they might not show it as much. Try to get involved with societies and sports instead of being sad in your room. “Enjoy Swansea and go out and experience as much as you can. Use the amenities we have on campus and make the most of it. Find things that interest you.” International students can wave their country’s flag at the new night out, Viva la Fiesta. Brought in by the students’ union, the night involves wearing your national flag, international guest DJs and regional music.
Viva la Fiesta is an established company across the country which has events in other cities such as Sheffield, Durham and Edinburgh. Famous DJ Punjabi MC recently played at the Nottingham event. Eva Donoghue, the students’ union’s international officer said: “There’s a niche for this type of event. It gives students a different night out and it’s on a Friday so nobody is missing lectures. It’s something familiar to help them settle in more and a different atmosphere from other club nights. “It’s a different take on a night out which home and international students can experience. “We are really lucky as it is an established company we are working with so we can use their expertise on making this the best atmosphere possible.” The launch of Viva la Fiesta Swansea is on Friday 11th October in the Bar Quarter, Oceana. Tickets are £5 on the door. For more on what the uni has to offer, see www.swansea.ac.uk/international
Sport
Tom Nightingale
TBC waterfrontmusic@swansea-union.co.uk Film
Saul Masters waterfrontfilm@swansea-union.co.uk Culture
TBC waterfrontculture@swansea-union.co.uk Listings
Olivia Rosenthall waterfrontfrontrow@swansea-union.co.uk Societies
TBC
Nanette Turkson, Siobhan Wright waterfrontfashion@swansea-union.co.uk Games
TBC
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ENJOYING LIFE: Some of Swansea University’s international students.
Man charged after ‘white pride’ demo by Rahul Vashisht
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Rachael Wines waterfronttravel@swansea-union.co.uk Relationships
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Annie Cottam (01792) 602496
waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk TAKE the opportunity to meet your University Policing Team over a cup of tea and chat about the issues that matter to you and your friends.
The university policing team PC Katryna Malinowski-Evans and PCSO Clive Dainton, pictured, will be available for a chat in JC’s bar at the following dates and times; 16th Oct 13 @ 11.00 13th Nov 13 @ 11.00 11th Dec 13 @ 11.00 PC Clive Dainton said: “Please feel free to come along and have a chat, we will be at each event for one hour.”
Warning on false ID cards waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk
Music
Fashion
by Chris Flynn
by Chris Flynn
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Have a cuppa with a copper
A 23-YEAR old man has appeared in court facing two counts of stirring up racial hatred, following a ‘white pride’ demonstration in Swansea in March this year. Christopher Phillips, also known as Darren Clifft, from Willenhall in the West Midlands, is alleged to have carried out a mock hanging of a lifesized golliwog doll while dressed in a Ku Klux Klan costume, at a music concert following the demonstration, a video of which was posted online. He did not enter a plea to the charges of using threatening or insulting
behaviour intending thereby to stir up racial hatred and distributing or showing a recording of visual images which are threatening or insulting intending thereby to stir up racial hatred. He was bailed with conditions to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court on October 24. Around 60 people appeared at the ‘white pride’ demonstration in Swansea on March 9th. They were however, met by a crowd of over 400 anti-fascist campaigners, including many students’ union members. Mr Clifft in particular was brought to the attention of the Counter-Terrorism Unit after stating on his Facebook page that Anders Breivik, the man who
killed 77 people in Norway in 2012 is “truly inspirational” and a “role model”, and attempting to garner support for a petition to free Breivik, following his conviction in August 2012. Zahid Raja, president of the Swansea University Students’ Union praised the charges brought against Mr Clifft, but said that a large amount of work “still needs to be done ahead of the General Election in challenging peoples’ attitudes on race and ethnicity. He added: “The Students’ Union will be taking its local responsibilities seriously as we look to build strategic relationships that will enable us to deliver our message to communities across Swansea during the election season.”
STUDENTS are being warned not to borrow friends’ ID to get into pubs and night clubs The Police are warning that if you are caught using someone else’s ID (passport, national identity card or driving licence) as proof of age to get into a pub or club, the ID will be seized from you by the door staff at the venue and passed to the Police. The Police will send the document back to the issuing authority. If the document has been used inappropriately, it will not be returned to you. You will have to reapply for a new document, pay the fee and face the consequences, which in some instances could be criminal. This scheme has been in operation for 3 years and more than 3,400 documents have been seized. For further information contact Swansea CENTRAL Police Station on 01792 456 999 ex 50 825 0r 50 207.
Noise complaint by Chris Flynn
waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk A complaint was lodged with the university this week about noise during Fresher’s Week. Paul Reynolds, 69, heard noise past midnight on marquee event nights which he suspects came from the university. Mr Reynolds lives over one mile away from campus. Speaking to the Evening Post, he said: “I had my windows closed and it was still loud enough that even a radio could not block out the noise. “ A university spokeswoman said: “On the Sunday of the fresher’s ball the university was monitored all night for sound and did not exceed regulations.”
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NEWS I 03
Vote in referendum to decide future shape of students’ union by Kay Byrne
editor@swansea-union.co.uk STUDENTS are being urged to attend a Student Forum on Tuesday, 8 October ahead of a referendum to decide whether the number of students’ union full-time officers should be cut from seven to five. President Zahid Raja will lead a debate on the issue at the forum in Café West (first floor of Fulton House) at 6.15pm. A referendum of all students will then follow via an online voting portal at www.swansea-union.co.uk between the hours of 8 am and 8 pm on Thursday 10th October, Friday 11th October, Saturday 12th October, Sunday 13th October and Monday 14th October 2013. A minimum of 459 students will have to register their vote for the result to valid, based on a quoracy of 3% of 15,275 students. If the amendment to cut full-time officer numbers is passed, it will not take effect until July 1 next year.
“The trustee board has called for this amendment entirely for financial reasons,” said president Zahid Raja. “The students’ union is facing more of a financial burden and we will need to pay for more permanent members of staff to support students across two campuses. “If the amendment is passed I have asked the NUS to independently facilitate a discussion around what the five posts should be, based on the challenges faced by the union as we move to a two-campus university. “There will be a university-wide survey of how students want to be represented. We will be going back to the drawing board and the result could be five entirely new roles.” Raja added that Students Forums in future would be held shortly before meetings of the policymaking university senate. “That mean we can ask what students think about what the university is planning and then take those views to the senate.”
CHANGE ON THE WAY? Students urged to vote on future of students’ union.
by Laura Fiteni
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
FRIENDS: Richard Cowie and (inset) Tim Woollcott. Richard’s decision stayed with him throughout the gruelling journey and on the afternoon of 10th of August, Richard achieved his goal as he crossed the channel from Calais to Dover to arrive at Exeter Cathedral Green. He said: “Thank you so much to all the people who helped me along the way, gave me messages of support and most of all the people who donated towards such a great cause. I couldn’t have done it without you all! I am pleased to announce that the current
by Gemma Parry
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
Richard goes extra mile for Tim FOURTH-year student Richard Cowie will be returning to Swansea University this semester after completing a 1785km bike ride from Odense to Exeter in memory of his late friend and fellow university student Tim Woollcott. Tim, who had died 53 weeks after being diagnosed with the incredibly rare and highly aggressive cancer Ewing Sarcoma, had been a determined and active member of university life. Despite remaining positive and returning to university, to the orchestra, bands and sport teams he represented, Tim lost his battle to the cancer in February at the age of 21. Inspired by his friend’s resilience, Richard decided to raise funds for The Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust by cycling home through six countries from Odense in Denmark. The idea behind Richard’s remarkable journey was prompted by a friend asking how he was planning on transporting his bike back to the UK from Odense University in Denmark where he had been studying as an Erasmus student. The incentive behind
New book shop sets up on campus
amount raised has surpassed £3,000.” It is hoped that Richard’s success and commitment will raise general awareness of the Ewing Sarcoma cancer and encourage others to support the cause. You can make a donation in memory of Tim by visiting https://www.facebook.com/ denmarktodevon and support the trust’s campaign to help to ensure that in the not too distant future patience can survive encounters with Ewing’s Sarcoma.
SWANSEA University campus is set to host the first John Smith’s campus book store in Wales. The site on the ground floor of the Taliesin Arts Centre that was previously a Waterstones book store, will be divided into two halves; one accommodating the bookstore, and the other accommodating ‘The Hub’. The Hub will be a space that societies will be able to hire and use for activities. Campus services manager Nanele Lewis said: “We are delighted to welcome John Smith’s to our university. “John Smith’s will offer not only books, but a broad range of other products and a dedicated web site to suit the needs of our students. We are looking forward to working with them and developing new products and services.” Meanwhile the former Spar shop on the second floor of Union House has been turned into the Hive, a space that societies and sports clubs can book for activities.
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NEWS I 05
Massive admissions increase helps Swansea after dismal 2012 intake by Gemma Parry
waterrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University has seen a record breaking 29% increase in the intake for undergraduate students starting this year, compared with the drastic drop of 2012. The 2013 admissions are an 8% increase on the previous record high of 2011, the year prior to the increase in tuition fees to £9,000. A university spokesperson said: “The increase is a remarkable achievement when applications across the UK are showing only modest increases.” Even as far back as March the university received a record 21.5% increase in applications for entry in September 2013, bucking the national trend, which saw an increase of 1.9% in applications. The campaign for increasing student recruitment set out to build on Swansea’s raised UK profile following Swansea City Football Club’s promotion into the Premier League, focusing on the university’s beachfront location.
The ‘Making Waves’ campaign has been so successful that it has won a Wales Marketing Award. Catherine Mullin, director of marketing at Swansea University, said: “With the new fee regime system in higher education, competition for student applications has never been fiercer.
“We needed a vibrant UK marketing campaign based on our defining characteristics; a stunning location and an excellent student experience. Our campaign was a great success, leading to a higher profile, over 100% increase in visitors to our recruitment web pages and a 24% increase in undergraduate applications.”
10k run to raise money for Mitch by Chris Flynn
waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk DOZENS of Swansea students took part in a race last month to commemorate and raise money for a Swansea student who passed away earlier this year. Mitchell Lewis (pictured), a physics’ student, died in May, causing widespread sadness amongst many students, especially those who worked closely with him in the Students’ Union. Many members of his family were also participants in the annual Admiral 10K run along the Swansea seafront. Those who took part are believed to have raised at least £3,000 for the Mind, a mental health charity. Stephen Marshall, a Swansea alumni and friend of Mitchell, raised £271. He said: “The race went really well, despite the muggy conditions. It was the fundraising for a great cause that pushed us forward in Mitch’s name.” Mitchell’s mother said: “The image Mitch portrayed to others was one of a happy, smiling outgoing person, full of life and making the very most of his university experience and in the main he was indeed all of these. “There was another side to Mitch however, that very few people saw because he was also a very private young man. Periods of sleepless nights, or days of sleep, feelings of anxiety, unable to focus or concentrate for any length of time, constantly trying to fit in with his peers, mood swings and the feeling of inability to cope with day-to-day issues were all covered up to the outside world. “Although he refused to acknowledge it, Mitch suffered with depression, never clinically diagnosed because he always believed he had to sort it out himself, feeling that he alone felt this way and others were able to deal with things much better than he could. “If only Mitch had allowed himself to be helped,
spoken with someone, he might have realised that he was not alone in feeling this way. “The Mind organisation helps people with such mental health problems as these and also friends and families trying to cope with loved ones unfortunate to have these kinds of issues. “Sadly, it’s too late to make a difference to Mitch’s life now but raising money in Mitch’s memory to enable Mind to continue their work makes Mitch’s death a little less meaningless in so much as if just one person’s life can be changed for the better and save those that love them from enduring a loss like we have this year, every penny raised is worthwhile. His cousin Ceri Parker, who also participated,
said: “I was so humbled by the numbers who joined me on the run and am so proud to have been a part of the event with so many who loved and cared for Mitch. “By raising this money we are helping save somebody else who is going through the same as Mitch. “He might be gone, but he’ll never be forgotten and this run was just one of many things that family and friends will do to promote mental health awareness in his memory.”
The College of Arts and Humanities did particularly well, exceeding its target for undergraduate recruitment this year by 70 to recruit 720 full time students. The college will now aim to increase its entry qualifications. There were also increases in 13 of the 15 subject groups offered at Swansea University, including a 15% increase in Languages and a 64% rise in Maths, Computer Science and Engineering. A university spokesperson said that the university had also increased its recruitment efforts by providing improved and increased open days and through refurbishing the students’ union to improve student experience. The university will also be placing more emphasis on Bay Campus currently being built and the fact that the university has risen into the top 50 of The Sunday Times Guide and the top 500 in the QS World rankings. A university spokesperson said: “Students are recognising Swansea as a university on the way up and with facilities and outlook geared for the opportunities and challenges of the modern world. “
Student Village demolition unlikely yet by Samantha Booth
waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk MAJOR construction or demolition works at the Hendrefoelan Student Village are not likely this academic year, says the university. The sell-off of the student village was announced by the university last year. Once the final students have arrived at the village, it will be full, accommodating 1626 people. At this time last year there were only 1360 students in the village. Concerns were raised last year by students and former students’ union welfare officer Charlotte Britton about the phased sell-off of the site and the effect on student welfare in the village. A university spokesperson said: “With regard to the sale of the village we do not have any more information at the moment and therefore have no confirmed start dates for any construction work. “We would not expect any significant works to take place this academic year other than some external surveys.”
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NEWS I 07
Swansea most improved in Wales in Times good university guide by Holly Miller
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University has fared very well in the latest round of university rankings. It has risen by five places in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide from 52 to 47, placing in the top 50 universities of the UK. Swansea was the only university in Wales to move up the table compared to 2012. The guide also shows that 77% of Swansea University graduates are now in professional jobs or graduate level study. The QS World University Rankings for 2013/14 show that Swansea has retained its position amongst the top 500 universities in the world, placing the university in the top 5% of universities globally. However, the university has dropped out of the top 100 in the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities for 2013. Pro Vice Chancellor, Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott said: “I’m really encouraged to see that we’ve moved into the top 50 UK universities in the new Times and Sunday Times Guide, which is one of the most comprehensive guides to higher education. “This excellent result follows the recent news that we have moved up amongst the top 500 universities in the world, putting us in the top 5% globally.
ON THE WAY UP: Swansea has moved up five places in The Times Good University Guide. “It is very encouraging to see that we’ve increased our score and held our position amongst the top 500 universities in the world, especially at a time when many UK universities have slipped down the table. “It shows that our hard work is paying off in areas including improving the student experience. We are delighted that our big increase in spending per
Swansea lecturer directs film with a Gavin and Stacey star by Kay Byrne
editor@swansea-union.co.uk A SWANSEA University lecturer shot a full length feature movie in two weeks and on a limited budget with the help of student volunteers. High Tide stars Melanie Walters, who plays Gwen in Gavin and Stacey, and up and coming actor, 16 year old Sam Davies. The film was originally due to star Catherine Tate but she had to pull out because of other commitments. It was written and co-directed by Swansea University film studies lecturer Jimmy Hay, who co-founded production company Long Arm Films with filmmaker, James Gillingham. “We had an open casting session at the Taliesin and Melanie turned up and blew everyone else out of the water. We were also very happy to get our first choice for the other lead role,” said Jimmy. “Sam Davies, who has been a guest lead on Dr Who and in Casualty, was so far ahead of all the other contenders.” High Tide tells the story of one final day during which a mother must mend the broken relationship with her son. It is described as a moving, powerful and tender portrait of a vital day in two people’s lives. It was shot in locations across Swansea and Gower during August. “It was a two-week shoot but the action in the film takes place over 12 hours so the biggest challenge we had was trying to get continuity with the weather!”said Jimmy. “The film is now being edited and we are hoping to enter it into festivals in the new year. We are also hoping there will be a screening at Taliesin.” The film company raised £10,000 of the film’s budget through crowdfunding. “We are hoping that the film will be part of Swansea
Bay’s bid to win the UK City of Culture title in 2017,“ said Jimmy. “Very few films are made in Swansea. And this is a shame. Swansea is not only perched on the edge of some of the most beautiful countryside that you’re ever likely to find, but it is stuffed full of brilliant, creative people, many of whom we’ve signed up to work on High Tide.” For more information on Long Arm Films and its people, visit www.longarmfilms.co.uk, or follow them on Twitter (@longarmfilms) and Facebook (www. facebook.com/longarmfilms).
Melanie Walters stars in lecturer Jimmy Hay’s film.
student is also reflected in the results.” “We’ve also recently achieved a top five-star rating for our teaching in the QS Awards, and won the Times Higher Education award for Outstanding Student Services team in the UK” “The Times/Sunday Times survey therefore provides further evidence that Swansea University is on the way up”.
Welsh Water works in park by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk CONSTRUCTION works being carried out on sewage pipes in Singleton Park is being done to help Swansea meet new bathing water guidelines. Currently, excess sewage overflows into “unscreened flows”, which end up pumped into Swansea Bay. Welsh Water is now putting in a powered screen, which will clean water to new cleanliness requirements for Swansea to qualify for better beach scores. Fencing in and around the park marks the extensive works, which run from the Langland Spar entrance to the Mumbles Road junction. Pathways have been diverted whilst the sewage works continue. The work is scheduled to be completed in the autumn.
Have you got a story? If so, get in touch by emailing us at editor@Swansea-union. co.uk
08 I NEWS
thewaterfront 07. 10.13
Mae’r Ods yn siarad am arwain y sîn cerddoriaeth Cymraeg MAE’R Ods yn fand sy’n gwneud enw i’w hunain ar y sîn cerddoriaeth Gymraeg. Gan ganu’n yn eu mamiaith yn unig, mae Yr Ods yn canolbwyntio ar greu ffordd ymlaen er mwyn i’r iaith Gymraeg cael ei chlywed mewn miwsig poblogaidd. Ar hyn o bryd maen nhw’n chwarae gigs a gwyliau cerddorol ar hyd y gwlad,gan gynnwys ymddangos ddwywaith yn Glastonbury mewn dwy flynedd yn olynol, mae’n hawdd i weld pam mae’r bechgyn yn dod yn gyfarwydd â chwarae ar lwyfan mwy. Fodd bynnag, yn ffodus i ni, mae’r band yn glynu at eu gwreiddiau Cymreig ac yn addo i barhau i gynrychioli’r gymuned Gymraeg trwy ei cherddoriaeth. Siaredais i â’r bechgyn er mwyn dysgu mwy. Wrth wrando ar Yr ODs, sŵn Griff, Gruff, Osian, Rhys a Gwion, gallwch disgrifio’r band orau fel ymaddasiad o indie a pop-roc gydag acen gog trwchus! Pe baech yn gwrando ar ganeuon mwyaf poblogaidd y band (Aros Fel Hyn Am Byth a Nid Teulu oedd y Bai) y band mwyaf tebyg ar y radio yw Two Door Cinema Club ond mae rhywbeth mwy unigryw yn cael ei ddarparu ganddyn nhw. Mae’r bechgyn yn egluro’n syth fod hyn yn dod o werthfawrogi cymaint o fathau amrywiol o gerddoriaeth ‘’Mae gan bawb wahanol ddylanwadau - er enghraifft, hoff fand Griff ydi’r Manic Street Preachers tra hoff fand Rhys ydi Blur. Ond mae gennym i gyd ddiddordeb brwd mewn cerddoriaeth Gymraeg. Ar y finud dani’n edrych mlaen yn fawr at glywed albym cyntaf Candelas yn enwedig. Mae
by Laura Fiteni
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk hynny’n rywbeth sydd yn ein sbarduno ni i greu cerddoriaeth rydym eisiau bod fyny yna fel band cymraeg mae pobl am gofio mewn blynyddoedd i ddod.’’ Mae’r ymdeimlad o Gymreictod yn thema gyffredin ar gyfer Yr Ods. “Rydym i gyd wedi tyfu fyny yn gwrando ar gerddoriaeth Gymraeg, a chymraeg yw ein iaith gyntaf”. Er bod y bechgyn yn enwi chwarae Glastonbury fel un o’u profiadau mwyaf arbennig, mae nhw’n dali ddisgrifio hedleinio Maes B yn Eisteddfod genedlaethol Cymru fel eu gig gorau. Pan ofynnais iddyn nhw a oedden nhw’n meddwl bod canu trwy gyfrwng y Cymraeg yn unig yn cyfyngu eu cynylleidfa o gwbl, oedd Griff yn sicr mai’r Cymraeg ydy’r ffordd ymlaen. “Nid yn unig mae’n naturiol i ni i ddefnyddio’r Cymraeg bob dydd ond rydym eisiau cyfrannu tuag at ddiwylliant yr iaith. Rydym i gyd wedi tyfu fyny yn gwrando ar gerddoriaeth Gymraeg, a chymraeg yw ein hiaith gyntaf. A rhaid cofio, dydy canu’n saesneg ddim wastad yn golygu fod y gynulleidfa yn fwy - mae yna gannoedd ar filoedd o fandiau saesneg sydd prin yn cael dim sylw. Mae bandiau cymraeg yn ei chael hi’n dda o ran sylw ar y radio pan y mae’n nhw’n dechrau allan.’’ Mae’n bwynt mae’nanodd i dadlau gyda fe. Mae’r band wedi tyfu cymaint ers i Gruff a Griff ei sefydlu’r band fel act acwstig yn 2006. Dechreuodd e gyda Osian Rhys ymuno ar y
Yr Ods drymiau, wedyn gan chwaraewr bâs Osian Howell a ymunodd y chwaraewr synth Rhys ar ddiwedd 2008. Sut bynnag, eleni gwelwyd y person cyntaf yn gadael y band. “Penderfynodd Osian Rhys adael yn ddiweddar, cyn i ni fynd ati gyda’r ail albym, felly ddaru ni gael ei annwyl ffrind Gwion
Llewelyn i ymuno a ni.” Beth bynnag fydd yn digwydd, does dim amheuaeth fod pethau gwych yn disgwyl am Yr ods felly edrychwch allan am eu halbym newydd ac ewch i gig er mwyn gweld y fand yn fyw! Bydd eu ail albym, ‘Llithro’ allan erbyn diwedd Gorffennaf.
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NEWS I 09
Keep up to date with full-time officers’ election promises online by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk TWO major election pledges made by SU full-time officers have already been fulfilled, with the announcement of a night bus service and the freezing of drinks prices in JC’s. President Zahid Raja promised to keep drinks prices in JC’s at the same level as last year and women’s officer Rosie Inman pledged to introduce the night bus service. Seven full-time officers were elected in March 2013, each with their own ideas about what would improve life for students. Education officer Swaran Singh resigned from his post in September but the remaining full time officers will aim to fulfil his pledges. The Waterfront will be reporting on each officer’s progress through the year and we have set up a handy manifesto checker so that you can see whether your sabbatical officers are keeping their election promises to you. Visit http://waterfrontonline. co.uk/manifesto-checker for more
information. Here are the pledges made: PRESIDENT: Zahid Raja Free broadband for every student Freeze drinks prices in JC’s Recognise sports, societies and volunteering on transcripts Conduct a full governance review of the Students’ Union Create more students’ union facilities WELFARE: Becky Grimes Online advice service Increase staff in student services Healthier, more affordable food on campus
Free letting contract checking service SPORTS: Charlotte Peters Maintain equal levels of help and support for all clubs Introduce college intramural leagues Keep Wednesdays free Improve links with local schools Lobby for greater subsidisation of facility fees Improve match facilities Promote officials courses to reduce reliance on external officials SOCIETIES AND SERVICES: Ceinwen Cloney Run a second job fayre in conjunction
Second campus construction annoys local residents
WHOLE LOTTA IRON: The campus is looking to be completed in the next two years. by Alicia Nugent
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk RAPID progress is being made on construction of Swansea University’s new Bay campus, but building work is causing problems for some local residents. They have complained about high levels of noise, vibration and damage caused to their properties during the construction period. Coedffranc West councillor Harry Bebell, who lives near the new campus said: “About 20 people have spoken to me about this. I’ve had two double-glazed windows blow out. “We have meetings with the developers and the university once a month. They are doing everything that’s possible.” A university spokesperson said: “We are
working with our contractors to minimise any disruption to local residents.” Construction work on the new £450m science and innovation campus, just off Fabian Way, began in May, and will feature a research and testing facility operated in partnership with Rolls-Royce. The campus will also include new facilities for engineering, business and economics, maths and computer science departments and will include student accommodation with associated retail space. It is estimated that the new campus will create thousands of jobs during the construction period and many more in the surrounding area once the build is complete. It is hoped that the new university campus will be to full student occupation by September 2015.
with employability week Introduce a shuttle bus service to and from the bus and train stations at the beginning and end of each term Improve student awareness of the SU services and societies Introduce bi-termly societies forum Prioritise sourcing and renovation of more societies specific areas for activities and storage Produce society handbooks WOMEN’S: Rosie Inman Referendum on Equalities Officer Introduce a night bus service Make free condoms and women’s items and information more widely available Create equality forums Extend zero tolerance further INTERNATIONAL: Eva Donoghue Welcome pack for international students Orientation events during first term Monthly drop in sessions in Ty Beck Lobby the university for an international careers advisor Create an Erasmus support group Support cultural societies Set up an international student satisfaction survey
Obituary: Ray Flynn by Molly Morgan
waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University staff and students were saddened by the news of the death of a long standing employee. After a long battle with cancer, Ray Flynn passed away on the 11th September. A spokesperson from the university said: “Ray Flynn commenced employment at the university on 23 November 1998. “Initially he was employed as a Night Security porter within Estates Services and was subsequently integrated into to the security team when the service was reorganised in 2007.” There are plans to commemorate Ray’s life and service to the university by placing a bench to honour Ray’s memory. Simon Thomas, Head of Security; “Ray was an important part of the team and he will be sadly missed by all his colleagues.” He is survived by his wife, Suzanne, three children and six grandchildren.
www.waterfrontonline.co.uk
NEWS I 11
W h a t ’s b e e n h a p p e n i n g o v e r t h e s u m m e r ?
Is student satisfaction up or down? by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk 17 August 2013 RESULTS from the nationwide National Student Survey (NSS) have been announced, and they show that Swansea University has slipped slightly since last year. The university achieved 86% satisfaction with the overall Swansea student experience, a fall of one per cent from last year. The university also fell below its benchmark target, which is a university-specific measurement, by one per cent, after beating it by one per cent last year. A news release about the survey on the Swansea University website is headlined ‘Student satisfaction remains high at Swansea’ and does not mention the fall in percentage terms or against the benchmark. Instead it compares this year’s results with 2011 to show a 4% increase. Professor Alan Speight, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Student Experience, is quoted as saying: “Students are at the centre of everything we do, so I am delighted to see that we have maintained our high levels of student satisfaction.” When asked why this year’s figures had not been reported in the story, a university spokesman said: “The results are not statistically significant.” The university story instead highlighted the fact that student satisfaction with teaching was high at 86%. Students expressed rising satisfaction with assessment and feedback, which has seen a year-on-year improvement of 9% since 2011, and a 4% rise since 2012. Meanwhile, Swansea Students’ Union was celebrating after it was announced it had received a three point surge, putting the “Best Students’ Union in Wales” NUS Award winner into the top quartile of UK institutions. Zahid Raja, Students’ Union President, said: “I am thrilled to see that Swansea University Students’ Union has continued its upward trajectory in achieving a 3% increase in satisfaction to 74% in the National Student Survey. This result is on the back of being announced as NUS Wales Higher Education Students’ Union of the year for 2013; firmly placing the Students’ Union in the top quartile of all UK Students’ Unions.” The NSS is a survey collected from final year students and collated by research giant IpsosMORI, and is an independent review and ranking method for universities. 72% of final year students from Swansea filled in the survey – more than 2,000 students.
Education officer resigns in wake of investigation by Alan Daventy & Chris Flynn waterfrontci@swansea-union.co.uk
11 September 2013 SWANSEA University Students’ Union Education Officer, Swaran Singh, resigned from his post as education officer and as a trustee of the students’ union on September 10. The resignation followed a disciplinary hearing involving Mr Singh in which it was claimed that he made inappropriate and unprofessional remarks to a female student member of staff at an event in June. Mr Singh, pictured, is not being replaced and his duties will be spread out among the remaining six full-time officers. Students’ Union president Zahid Raja said: “The responsibilities within the role of education officer will be undertaken by the president, who will delegate responsibilities to other members of the full-time officer team.” There had been speculation on campus
that a by-election would be held following the resignation, but the Students’ Union Articles of Governance state that such an election cannot be held once term has started. The university deemed the start of term as 2 September, when Graduate Entry Medicine students started their course – a week before Mr Singh resigned. Mr Singh made 12 pledges in his manifesto, more than any other students’ union officer. The students’ union team will now have to try to deliver these, on top of their own election promises.
The students’ union has hired two parttime members of staff to assist with the administrative work of their jobs. One member of staff will assist the president and another the remaining officers. Zahid Raja said: “The full-time officer team have made a commitment to work on the ideas contained with[in] Swaran’s manifesto. “I want to make it absolutely clear that this resignation will not compromise the students’ union work on academic representation and campaigns.” Mr Singh’s salary will be absorbed into the students’ union budget. Up until his resignation, Mr Singh received payment of almost £4,500 for his services during the previous four months, but will not receive any salary upto the end of his term which was supposed to be the 30th June, 2014. Want to check out your Sabbatical Officer’s election promises to you? Visit http://waterfrontonline.co.uk/ manifesto-checker for more information.
Lizard caught after Brynmill escape
FIVE FOOT REPTILE: Police warned residents to be on the lookout. by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk 18 August 2013 SOUTH Wales Police have announced the search for a 5ft pet lizard that had escaped from King Edwards Road in Swansea is over. The reptile was not being considered as dangerous, but police said the owner was concerned for its welfare. The pet made a bid for freedom from its owner’s garden in the central student area Brynmill, around 16.30
on Saturday 17th August. It was located on Monday after extensive national media coverage about a mile from the property and has now been reunited with the owner. The Tupinambis, or Tegus lizard had been described as having black and white scales and short legs, with a puffy neck. It’s not the first time Swansea has seen stray reptiles. A snake was discovered in a kitchen drawer of a flat in the Marina area last August, where
it was thought to have belonged to the previous occupants who moved back to Saudi Arabia.
Would you like to be a journalist? Do you want to learn valuable journalistic skills and increase your employability by volunteering for The Waterfront? We are looking for people to write about news, sport and features in the next academic year so if you are interested please write to editor@swansea-union.co.uk.
Clearing mixup for Welsh students by Jon May
front@swansea-union.co.uk 15 August 2013 PROSPECTIVE students who went to school in Wales have been denied clearing spaces at Swansea University because of a funding cap, it is claimed. Several applicants voiced confusion and anger on social networks after apparently being rejected because of a cap on the number of Welsh students being accepted. Angry tweets read: “@SwanseaUni can you please explain why my daughter was told she couldn’t apply to you though clearing because she is “Welsh”??” Another read: “Can anyone explain to me in a tweet why @SwanseaUni are only allowed to take a certain number of Welsh students?” The university later clarified that they still had places for Welsh domiciles and claimed only one or two people were affected. A statement from the university said: “There is a cap on numbers for Welsh-domiciled students, but this is a HEFCW policy, not something imposed by us. We and other Welsh universities are bound by this. “The current situation is that there are still some places available for Welsh-domiciled and Englishdomiciled students. However, as we are continuing to receive enquiries, this situation may well change quickly.” The university funding body HEFCW, however, denied that there was a cap on the number of Welshdomiciled students, saying that instead it limits the total fee grant that can be claimed by an institution. This is to limit the amount of funding paid out by the Welsh Government, which currently pays for two-thirds of the tuition fees of each Welsh-domiciled student, whether they go to university in Wales or England. The confusion during clearing may have arisen because, after originally setting out its funding arrangements for 2013/2014, HEFCW changed its mind, deciding to move from a cap on student numbers to a maximum fee grant. The HEFCW document setting out the changes says: “We will now move to an approach which specifies a maximum fee grant income for each institution, rather than a maximum student number. This will allow institutions flexibility in the number of students they recruit. “However, if recruitment at an institution means that the associated fee grant income would exceed the institutional maximum, institutions will have to either reduce the fees that they are charging to bring the total income of fee grants at their institution back within their maximum or accept a financial penalty.”
front!
BEAUTIFUL: The Dance Winners at the annual SUSUBRIGHT MediaAND Awards. Page 26. Society at Freshers’ Fayre.
Meet your SUSU president
Join the student media team
Freshers’ Fortnight in pictures
Autumn film season previewed
Join a society to make the most of uni
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L i f e s t y l e f o r S wa n s e a s t u d e n t s
14 M EET yo u r s u s u p r e s i d e n t
features
“ We need to get real
quickly and refocus resources if we want students to be happy with their Swansea student experience five years down the line.
”
ZAHID RAJA: President of Swansea University Students’ Union.
Making tough choices now to safeguard the future of the union Y
OU’VE bought your freshers’ tickets from them, you’ve partied in their on-campus nightclub and you’ve probably had a drunken accident somewhere near them. Guess who? That’s right; it’s your students’ union and they are here to enhance your student experience. With the nights out and on and off-campus services come seven full-time officers who are a student elected team who are here to represent you and students’ needs. President Zahid Raja, 24, is more often known for his parody videos in which he is surrounded by men in leopard print tops and short shorts to support campaigns for student reps and the SU elections. But when off camera, Zahid means business; this year he aims to achieve five points on his manifesto including freezing drink prices in JC’s and free broadband for every student. “Students should expect to see huge changes. We’ve successfully challenged how the university perceives students. You should expect lecturers to involve you in the design and delivery of your course.
Controversial “Similarly, there will be expectations on you your university education isn’t something that just happens to you, you need to actively engage with your learning and the teaching that you get. That means drink water after a night out and make sure you turn up to lectures (9k a year is A LOT of money to be pissing away!)” Medical Sciences and Humanities student, Zahid, has announced a controversial plan to restructure the full-time officer team by making two of the positions
redundant. Zahid explains: “Basically, to be straight up with everyone – we can’t afford to have seven full time officers anymore. Not with an ambition to deliver what we do over two campuses. “We don’t want to be in a place that some students’ unions have previously gotten themselves into by ignoring financial issues – some in mild cases having to choose between their bar and their advice centre, others having to go cap in hand to the university.
Taking action Becoming the president of the students’ union requires a large skills base; being social, organised, committed, critical and understanding. This year in particular is going to be a tough challenge; the QAA institutional review, the logistics of the second Bay Campus and a restructure. “I felt that I was the best person to lead us through this and decided to go for it. What I would say to anyone reading this is that YOU can do this job too and you would be amazing. “Let go of anxieties around being experienced enough or tough enough (you get training for all that) and focus on what changes you would like to see in the university, your union or the student community in which we live. “This is the perfect opportunity to ask some fundamental questions – why do we have the number of officers that we do? What do they do? and what should they be working on? What are the priorities for Swansea students and how do they mesh with the changes that are on the horizon over the next decade? “It is only when these questions have been
answered that we should even think about the roles that full time officers occupy.” In early September, education officer Swaran Singh was advised and then actioned to resign from his role in the students’ union. This took the full-time officer team down to just six roles: “I think it’s pretty lucky that I was education officer last year - it means that we can work around his resignation and at the same time, produce some good results for students. “We will work on the principles behind his manifesto points as a team.”
Money first A balance of nights out and studying is a difficult measure to strike instantly. This may be the first time you are learning to manage your finances away from home and the choice of food vs. booze can be a big decision to make. Zahid explains why you need to consider this: “Bills first, booze later. Seriously though, debt isn’t fun or nice. Also, watch what you post online. It will definitely come back to bite you in the future! “In five years I genuinely have no idea where I’ll be or what I’ll be doing. This job is truly amazing in one sense – it opens a lot of doors from the experience you gain, so I’ll have to wait and see. “If I could be any person, I’d be Voldemort. He’s not really a person, but he’s still great fun.” The Waterfront has compiled a manifesto checker so you can see the progress of the officer team throughout the year. Visit www.waterfrontonline. co.uk/manifesto-checker.
Would you like to be a journalist or a presenter? Join the media team W
OULD you like to learn valuable new skills and increase your employability by volunteering for the student media team? We are looking for people to join the newspaper The Waterfront, the SUTV television station and Xtreme Radio. A team of student volunteers produces the fortnightly term-time publication The Waterfront and its online presence, www. waterfrontonline.co.uk. The team is led by professional journalist Kay Byrne, whose career has spanned newspaper, television, radio and online media outlets. If you would like to get involved there are opportunities to write for news, sport and features, as well as learning how to design pages using InDesign software. Gemma Parry, news editor and History student, said: “Working for The Waterfront has been an experience that is both rewarding and challenging. Since joining, my writing style has improved in leaps and bounds and I have met fantastic people who are driven by the same things that I am.“ Sam Booth, features editor and English student said: “I’ve never laughed so much as when I’m in the office. There’s lots of journalism-related banter to get involved with.” This year two of The Waterfront’s student journalists - features editor Samantha Booth and crime and investigations editor Chris Flynn - were shortlisted to be NUS Wales Student Journalist of the Year. Chris, who is studying Law, went on to win the title for his pioneering investigative work for the paper. He said: “Being part of The Waterfront has been by far the best choice I’ve made in my life. I have learned so much about the law, journalism and politics, which has been invaluable to me.” The student media outlets also include the new SUTV television station and Xtreme Radio. You can find out more about them and how to get involved on page 22.
WINNING TEAMS: Above, Chris Flynn, NUS Wales Student Journalist of the Year (right) and Crime and Investigations reporter Rahul Vashisht (left). Below, winners at the 2013 Swansea University Students’ Union Student Media Awards.
Training session
We are holding a training and induction session for new volunteers from 1pm on Wednesday, October 9 in Fulton lecture room 2 and afterwards in Divas. Sessions will include an introduction to news, features and sport at The Waterfront. Xtreme Radio will have workshops on management skills, presenting skills, and software. SUTV will present interview techniques, editing and camera skills. •If you would like to get involved in The Waterfront, please email editor@ swansea-union.co.uk.
Vacancies on The Waterfront WE currently have vacancies for several section editor posts on The Waterfront. Section editors are responsible for running a team of volunteer contributors to produce a page of words and pictures for each issue of the paper. They can also learn how to use InDesign software to design and lay out their own pages. Vacant posts include Music, Games,
Culture, Societies, Food, Relationships. If you are interested in applying for one of the posts, please email editor@ swansea-union.co.uk explaining why you would like to do the job, what your ideas are for the page, and whether you have had previous experience. Please also include a 200 word example of your writing. Closing date: Monday, October 21.
Don’t miss The Waterfront, SUTV and Xtreme Radio induction and training session on Weds, October 9
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societies 24 -25
music 23
student media 22
front row 21
film 20
fashion 19
freshers 16-17
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7 October 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
Book Review The Fault in Our Stars by John Green Filming is already drawing to a close on the cinematic adaptation of ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ by John Green, and having already achieved cult status amongst readers By Heather Cartwright of Young Adult Fiction, the novel is only set to become more popular with the film’s release next year. However, one would be as likely to know Green from his wildly popular Youtube channel, The Vlogbrothers, as one would his award-winning writing. Green has been a trailblazer for a new generation of authors, using social media to constantly engage with his audience, and in doing so has created a previously unrivalled rapport between novelist and reader. Green’s recent video offerings explore an array of eclectic topics, with titles such as Animals Interrupting Sports Events: A Critical Analysis nestled alongside more sober reflections like How Much is Human Life Worth; this juxtaposition of droll humour and intellect is perfectly illustrated in Green’s literature. Green has stated in the past that he writes strictly Young Adult Fiction, and makes no apologies to critics such as the Daily Mail who describe his work as “distasteful…disturbing and inappropriate” for its intended readership due to the weight of its subject matter. Green has responded to such claims by voicing that he finds it condescending to suggest that younger readers would not be “smart enough” to cope with the emotional intensity of the book, which does not shy away from starkly portraying life as a teenage cancer sufferer. ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ follows 16- year-old Hazel Lancaster, as she meets and falls in love with Augustus Waters at a cancer support group the pair begrudgingly attend. They tentatively embark on a bitter-sweet relationship and we share in the quips and blushing of their blossoming romance. We later join the fated mission to Amsterdam, as they seek conclusive answers from Hazel’s favourite author but instead discover things they’d rather have not. ‘The Fault in Our Stars’ is laden with moments of intense fragility and sadness, yet Green ensures the text is always shot through with painfully sharp dialogue and wit.
freshers’ fortnight
careers 26
societies 24 -25
music 23
student media 22
front row 21
film 20
fashion 19
freshers 16-17
features 14-15
careers 26
societies 24 -25
music 23
student media 22
front row 21
film 20
fashion 19
with nanette turkson & S iobhan wright
freshers 16-17
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features 14-15
7 October 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
fashion
MEET THE NEW FASHION EDITORS Siobhan Wright
Nanette Turkson
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Potter (preMy style: I like to unge. Think Harry gr of t hin a th wi k all wrapped up in Geek-Chic Fϋrstenberg and Pin n Vo e an Di , n) ba Azka one. a major fan of the fashion faves: I am 3 ‘1 r good te in W n m Autu pshop has a really nd this season. To check patterns arou ger of selection! ai Shoniwa (lead sin loma Faith, Shing Pa : ns ico s. n es io dd sh go Fa oa Dita Von Teese is als the Noisettes) and OS, ZARA, The AS , wn ts: Hobo’s in to p. po ts ho ng pi op Sh M, Primark, Topsho shop in Uplands, H& n, sto Kid Samaritans charity ything Cath sized handbags, an er ov ely siv ts. as ca M d : Likes McCoy an , red lipstick, Travie pointed-toe heels Dislikes: Spiders. e-piece suit robe: A vintage on rd wa y m in m ite r’s wardrobe which Most loved t taken from Mothe ke jac le sty o on and kim es in the Eighties. was one of her fav
Fashion File
My style: Heavily influenced by a vin tage aesthetic. I te not buy into shor nd to t-lived seasonal tre nds but rather pu staple pieces, which rchase I will mix with vin tage items. Fashion Icons: Ol ivia Palermo and Vic toria Beckham are two individuals th at push the bounda ries when it comes to their style, but at the same time alw ays manage to loo sophisticated and k well put together. Shopping hotspo ts: Topshop, ZARA and Urban Outfitte Hobo’s, and vintage rs. markets situated in London, Brick Lane and Portobello Ro ad market. Fashion Likes: Ba roque prints, vinta ge paisley prints, and vintage bags. silk shirts Fashion Dislikes: I’m still patiently wa iting for the day th both leggings and at Uggs will become obsolete. Most loved item in my wardrobe: It’s impossible for to choose just one me favourite item in m y wardrobe; my lov extends to them all e !
Don’t miss student shopping night on Tuesday, October 8 SWANSEA’S Quadrant Shopping Centre is to hold a Viva La Fashion night for students on Tuesday, October 8 when some tasty discounts will be on offer. Retailers at the centre will close as usual at 5.30pm and then re-open for students from 7pm to 9pm, when many will feature special offers to give a helping hand to hard-up students with plenty of discounts and offers available. This is the third year of the promotion and this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better and to overflow
from the Quadrant into the city centre with DJs providing music to create a real vibe. It has been welcomed by Nanette Turkson and Siobhan Wright, joint fashion editors of Waterfront. Nanette said: “Students in Swansea are definitely fashion conscious and there are quite a few who are very stylish dressers. “I think it’s a great idea and I’m pleased it has been extended from the Quadrant to the whole of the city centre. “There are some good places to shop
in Swansea and it should be a great night and we’re going to be there to report on it for the magazine. “Discounts do matter to students and it should attract a good crowd on the night.” Fellow fashion editor Siobhan Wright said: “I am really looking forward to the event. I love finding a good bargain and shall be making a night of it with my girl friends.” Quadrant Shopping Centre Manager Ian Kirkpatrick said: “We have had most
of the stores here signing up to provide offers for students and that includes some you might not expect but it should make for a really lively evening.” There will be exclusive discounts on production of a student card, including 20% off at Superdry, Schuh, selected brands at Debenhams, The Works and Body Shop, 15% off at Quiz and 10% off at Clarks as well as free mini-makeovers and a live DJ in the Centre as well. www.quadrantshopping.co.uk
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societies 25
film 23
student media 22
front row 21
music 20
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freshers 16-17
S I Lver screen with saul masters
features 14-15
20
film
Autumn 2013: Season Preview A
FTER a blockbuster summer season of superhero sequels and big budget flops, the award season is approaching with all the Oscar hopefuls. Saul Masters takes a look at the films that will be hitting our screens this winter.
Thor: The Dark World Marvel earned well over a billion dollars with Iron Man 3 in April, and no doubt they hope for the same for Thor’s first outing since Avengers Assemble. Everyone’s favourite Norse God, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) picks up his hammer once again. Set a year after the events of the Avengers, Thor has the epic task of saving the nine realms from an enemy as old as the universe... talk about a tough gig. Anthony Hopkins and Natalie Portman reprise their roles and Christopher Eccleston is on board as the big bad Malekith.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Peter Jackson releases another Tolkien adaptation only a year after his first Hobbit film. The Desolation of Smaug sees Martin Freeman’s Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, thirteen dwarves and the one ring on a quest to find the dragon Smaug and attempt to get their gold back. With Benedict Cumberbatch voicing the infamous Smaug and a cast that boasts one of the most eclectic this year; I doubt any other film this year has the likes of both Stephen Fry and Luke Evans. Expect Jackson’s usual epic directing and beautiful cinematography.
Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues Everyone’s favourite news anchor, Ron Burgundy, is back. Will Ferrell’s first outing as moustached maestro Ron Burgundy saw one of the greatest comic creations of the last decade but this time around Burgundy has left the 70s behind him and is taking New York’s first 24 hour news service by storm. The rest of the news team are in tow with the likes of Steve Carrell’s scene-stealing Brick and Paul Rudd’s hopeless Brian Fantana. It boasts a cast that includes Jim Carrey, Liam Neeson, Nicole Kidman, Harrison Ford and Kristen Wiig, so splash on your Sex Panther and join Ron Burgundy as the legend continues.
violent mother. And director Kimberley Pierce is intent on positioning the film from a female point of view.
The Fifth Estate After the massive success of Star Trek: Into Darkness, Benedict Cumberbatch has had no shortage of acting jobs and has been linked to Guillermo Del Toro’s next film and J.J.Abrams’ new Star Wars. But before all that Cumberbatch is set to star as WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. The film is based on Assange’s attempts to expose the corruption of people in power. It will be interesting to see how director Bill Condon depicts one of the most controversial organizations of this generation.
12 Years a Slave Steve McQueen and Michael Fassbender pair up once again after their success with Hunger and Shame in what is being billed as this year’s Oscar front runner. 12 Years a Slave tells the story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. Based on Northup’s 1853 autobiography it stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Northup, Michael Fassbender as the cruel plantation owner and the likes of Benedict Cumberbatch, Brad Pitt and Paul Giamatti.
Gravity Director of harry Potter: Prisoner of Azkaban, Alfonso Cuaron returns with science-fiction epic, Gravity. The film has already built immense hype and looks set to go on to award season glory. George Clooney and Sandra Bullock star as an astronaut and a medical engineer who are cast adrift in space with little chance of survival. It only takes one look at the film’s trailer to understand why critics are describing it as the best 3D film ever.
The Wolf of Wall Street Above, Will Ferrell is back as Ron Burgundy. Below, Leonardo di Caprio is the Wolf of Wall Street.
It seems like every time Leonardo DiCaprio releases a film anywhere near awards season everyone calls it ‘his year’. But with the help of old friend Martin Scorsese, this really could be DiCaprio’s year to get his mitts on an Oscar. Di Caprio plays Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who has everything till he starts getting involved in dodgy schemes and runs into the FBI.
Carrie Remakes of classic horror films never tend to be anything to shout about, but this remake of Brian De Palma’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, Carrie, actually looks like it could buck the trend. First off, Chloe Grace Moretz is starring as the awkward loner Carrie White who finds out she possess telekinetic powers. Julianne Moore stars as her religious and
SCARY: Chloe Grace Moretz brings the role of Carrie back to life.
Would you like to review a film? if so, get in touch on waterfrontfilm@swansea-union.co.uk
careers 26
societies 24 -25
music 23
student media 22
front row 21
film 20
fashion 19
freshers 16-17
W H at ’s o n w i t h o l i v i a r o s e n t h a ll
features 14-15
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7 October 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
front row
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Ryan Keen Plus support
Sin City, Wednesday 16 October Tickets: £8
Having toured with Ed Sheeran and supported Plan B, Britain’s new favourite acoustic act is coming to Swansea. Keen’s upcoming album, which was apparently self-funded and recorded in his shed, has been described as something that “explores the light and shade of life and love” with songs that are “remarkable for their subtly rich arrangements” and “intimate style of playing and singing”. So this may well be the soundtrack to your most recent break up. Having studied Commercial Music at Westminster University, Keen originally wanted to pursue a career within the law or management aspect of the music industry. The death of a close friend however, gave him the push to begin making his own music. “It struck a chord,” Keen claims, “the realisation that anyone can go at any time, so you might as well have a go.” Tracks such as “Focus” and “Thank You” have been his biggest hits on Soundcloud. With support acts yet to be confirmed, you’re in for a treat.
101% Pantera Tribute band Sin City, Friday 11 October Tickets: £7 advance
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Sin City are glad to welcome back 101% Pantera! 101% Pantera are Europe’s leading tribute to Pantera. They have been ripping it up across the continent recreating the brutal live energy that the legendary rockers are renown for. This time, they’ll be bringing that same energy, passion and vulgar display of power to Sin City! We’ll see you at the front.
Rock n Roll Bingo
JC’s, 8pm, Thursday 10 October (and every Thursday)
Bingo - But not as you know it. Rock & Roll Bingo makes its way to Swansea every Thursday at 8pm. Grab yourself a bingo card and listen in as rather than call out numbers, we play clips of music. Play for a line or Full House and if you think you’ve won, just shout ‘ROCK & ROLL BINGO!’ to win a plethora of prizes. £1 a strip, drinks prizes.
HOWL Poetry Night The Musician @ Mozarts
Viva La Fiesta
Oceana, Friday 11 October Tickets: £5
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VIVA LA FIESTA - the UK’s Biggest International Parties lands in Swansea for the first (of many) SUPER International Parties. This is the first time most of you will all get to interact with International + Erasmus students from Swansea Uni and Swansea Met Uni. It will be special! ♫ FREE FLAGS OF EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD :) ♫ THE BEST INTERNATIONAL MUSIC ♫ TIME 10:00PM - 3:00AM International folks of Swansea ... get your dancing shoes ready. Invite all your friends. PS: You can get tickets online here: https://www.fatsoma.com/events/95809/.
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Every second and third Thursday of the month see one of Swansea’s most popular poetry open mic nights, the HOWL. Open to all who come, the night sees many different genres and styles of poetry performed by students and local poets, professionals and dabblers alike. Recently used as part of Swansea’s bid to become the capital of culture in 2017, HOWL has hosted many big names such as Rhian Edwards, Mab Jones, Howard Ingham and Tony Webb as well as featuring in several of Swansea’s festivals, including the Do Not Go Gentle and Pila Pala festivals. HOWL’s main goal is to offer a stage to everyone willing to take it, and all work is appreciated, whether it be verse, prose, haiku, rant or short story; even more modern forms such as rap and hip hop have been performed before its microphone. So come to Mozarts at 8pm on October 10 to see all kinds of art taking shape, and perhaps to join in yourself.
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your guide to susu media
student media
Welcome to Xtreme Radio 2013/14! This year we are very proud to celebrate our heritage as the 2nd oldest student radio station in the United Kingdom and the oldest student radio station in Wales.
Xtreme Alumni • • •
Nation & Radio Worthy DJ Michelle Owen Swansea City Press Officer Ben Donovan KentFM Reporter, former SwanseaSound Reporter & Waterfront Editor James Snaith
We’re Swansea University’s very own radio station, run by students for students. We play the best in new music and student anthems 24 hours a day. We provide news and information every hour, and cover Sports Swansea, local and regional sport with our award-winning sports team. You can listen live and on demand around the world at www.xtremeradio.org and via our iPhone and Android Apps. To join the society for £5 a year visit www.swanseaunion.co.uk/organisation/7047/
Your Music. Your Radio.
SUSU Media are holding a training day on Weds 9 October 1-3.45 for The Waterfront, Xtreme and SU-TV. For more information email media@swansea-union.co.uk
Newly launched this September, SU-TV is the first student run television station at Swansea University! In our first year of broadcast we plan to produce shows such as So You Think You Can Cook?, Swansea Student Does..., Sports Swap, Module Crash Courses and much more. We aim to provide training for students within basic broadcast media which includes interview techniques, presenting skills and editing training. To join the society for £5 a year visit www.swansea-union.co.uk/organisation/ SUMediaSoc/
We are looking for you to take up to seven positions on the SU-TV team: Head of Factual Head of Entertainment Head of Societies Head of Sports Head of Culture Head of News For more information and how to apply, email manager@su-tv.co.uk
Head to youtube.com/ TheWaterfrontSwansea to watch our shows and event coverage
music
Where to live it up in Swansea with legendary live music!
D
URING Freshers Fortnight, you had a delightful array of music and entertainment to choose from, but that’s not all Swansea has to offer in the way of live music, writes Alex Gibbs. Swansea hosts numerous live music events across the year in various venues, and not just the mainstream stuff you find on the radio. Swansea is home to a number of great hotspots for upcoming musicians who range in rich musical diversity, including some of our very own students. First and foremost, ‘Oceana’ and ‘Sin City’ have put themselves on the map for their live entertainment. Whilst Oceana is recognized predominantly for its club nights and low-cost drinks on Mondays, Oceana plans on delivering plenty of noteworthy acts this autumn, with previous appearances including Calvin Harris. On the opposite side of the music scale, Sin City hosts the heavier side of Swansea’s music, including a Pantera Tribute Act this October, from only £7. Sin City may not be the O2 arena, but it has the ultimate rock club vibe with fantastic acoustics, whilst serving drinks which are as “cheap as chips”. Next we have Uplands’ very own ‘The Garage’, which is perfect for those of you who love to find fresh, unsigned acts. The Garage guarantees a friendly atmosphere, and in this intimate venue you can get right up close and personal to the featuring band.
Every Monday Night without fail, Noah’s Yard in Uplands hosts a Jazz night, which is perfect for you saxophone lovers. So if you fancy cosying up to some funky local Jazz music, from the likes of ‘The Gents’, your Mondays will be sorted whilst being surrounded by good company and excellent food. There are plenty of rich, diverse music venues in Swansea area, including ‘No Sign Wine Bar’ on Wind Street and the acoustic and jazz ‘Caffe Americano’ by the seafront. If you can’t find what you’re looking for just yet, Cardiff hosts numerous notorious acts at its Motorpoint Arena, including previous favourites Rihanna and Nicki Minaj. In the upcoming months, acts like Kids in Glass Houses, Ellie Goulding (sold out), Blue and Gabrielle Aplin will grace the stage at Cardiff University Students’ Union. At the Motorpoint Arena, featured artists expected to headline include Paramore and Stereophonics. So, however quirky your musical tastebuds, you’re never too far from a musical hotspot, so kick back and enjoy the music scene in Wales this upcoming year. • To buy tickets for events in Swansea, check out our Students’ Union Website: www.swansea-union. co.uk/whatson • For tickets to Cardiff events, check out: www. ticketmaster.co.uk
careers 26
societies 24 -25
music 23
student media 22
front row 21
film 20
fashion 19
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freshers 16-17
features 14-15
7 October 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
Chvrches
The Bones Of What You Believe 8/10 CHVRCHES anticipated debut is a coherent collection of electro-pop songs that prominently stand out in the genre. With the singles “Gun”, “Recovery” and “The Mother We Share” CHVRCHES have fulfilled their potential shown in these tracks, delivering a solid album that doesn’t lose momentum or lull between the big tracks. Lauren Mayberry’s vocals don’t just compliment the synth and drum machine employed on most tracks, but also move through them with simple, complementary melodies. Strip these away, however, and you’re still left with an excellent electronic composition which at times seems like it would be just as home in a ‘80s film soundtrack. The production quality of the whole record really allows these qualities to shine, with a clear bright sound throughout that never seems to unwantedly ‘fuzz’. This is all the more impressive as the trio recorded in their own basement studio. CHVRCHES are another genuine demonstration of Glasgow’s excellent indie music scene and are a must listen for fans of ‘M83’ or ‘The Naked And Famous’. By James Rawlings
Do you think a band or genre should be featured? E-mail us at waterfrontmusic@swansea-union.co.uk
Ask Aunt Laura & Aunt Mel
agony
Your new resident agony aunts are here to answer your problems. If you have any questions, from how to change a light bulb or whether to kiss the boy you like, email waterfrontfeatures@swansea-union.co.uk
Dear Laura and Mel, I’m a first year student and have been really worrying about coming to university this summer. I feel that I should have taken a gap year, and now I worry that I will be stuck in university for three years and regret it. Please I need your advice! From Nigel Hey Nigel, Listen there is no need to worry; university in itself is an experience of a lifetime. But alongside all the people you meet and the partying there is so much more to offer. Within each society there are opportunities for trips and the first year is the time to get involved. For example Hitch Society! It’s a great opportunity and is promoted as a gap year in two weeks. This society gives you a chance to hitch-hike across so many countries during Easter. You can either go to Morocco or Croatia. And personally if you want an opportunity to travel that isn’t going to break the bank this is the thing to do. Honestly, university will offer you so many opportunities to get involved in amazing things like this. And then travelling after university is also an option! Hope this is helpful; just make sure you make university worthwhile by joining societies.
Dear Laura and Mel, I am a first year and have recently got to know some of my housemates… maybe a little too well! Though I get on with all of my housemates I have slept with one of the guys but have kind of fallen for another. What do I do? Ellie Hey Ellie, A lot of people fall into this problem every year. I think within the first week if you have slept with someone in your house I’m sure the other party is aware that it isn’t serious. Therefore, if you have fallen for someone else we suggest that leave it a few weeks (not getting with the first guy at any point) and go for it. YOLO. When it’s a one night stand people should know you’re not looking for anything serious. But we suggest you make it clear to the guy you really like that he’s the one for you, and then see how it goes. Good luck Sister! Just play it safe and be careful of the first guys’ feelings!
24 Enhance your student experience
societies
Memberships are on the up, says societies officer S
WANSEA University societies memberships have risen after a drop last year, writes Josh Lovell. The Freshers’ Fayre has always been a great recruitment ground for societies and this year it succeeded in securing high numbers of memberships, says Ceinwen Cloney, the Societies and Services Officer. This was a much needed improvement due to last year’s drop in society membership, which many atrributed to the barcode system implemented by the students’ union. Ceinwen Cloney, the Societies and Services Officer, said: “This year we have over 100 official societies and 150 society groups that meet on a regular basis. “Having looked at the latest figures from the website the general trend is that memberships are on the increase, which is fantastic news for both societies and the union!” There has been a clear increase in first year students coming to Swansea University this year, which has obviously
benefited student societies. Swansea University’s Students’ Union has also ensured financial safety with the purchase of society memberships. Ms Cloney said: “The barcode system has allowed us as a union to ensure safer financial transactions for students and societies alike as well as providing the ability to electronically retain students’ information for societies to use. “The barcode system came into its own this year allowing societies to have more freedom with their Freshers’ Fayre stands. The barcodes mean that instead of worrying about money and getting email addresses, societies can truly promote who they are and what they do.” However, a number of societies complained that they ran out of barcodes for types of membership. Ms Cloney defended this claim, stating: “Societies were notified and made aware over the two days of the fayre that if they were to run out of barcodes they could attain a master copy sheet of their particular barcodes
60 seconds with: Rosie Inman - SU Women’s Officer
from our societies information point in the fayre. “You can understand the membership for societies varies vastly so it was decided that to be more environmentally friendly and cost effective that each society would receive a set amount and if further barcodes were required it was the responsibility of the society to photocopy them.”
What societies were you a part of? RI: “Hogwarts and I went to a couple of Glee sessions” What’s your favorite student night? RI: “Sin Savers” What course were you on? RI: “Ancient History & Politics” If you were soup, what would you be? RI: “I don’t like soup” What’s your favorite Swansea haunt? RI: “Noah’s Yard” Who is your idol? RI: “Evanna Lynch, or J. K. Rowling” What do you like to do in your spare time? RI: “Read good books and play guitar”
PROUD: Ceinwen Cloney, Societies & Services Officer.
What is your favorite song at the moment? RI: “I Dream an Ocean by Charlene Kaye” What is your favorite film? RI: “V for Vendetta” Who is your favorite superhero? RI: “Raven from Teen Titans”
Above: British Sign Language Society.
Above: Clash re-enactment society turns heads with its display of medieval weaponry. Right, the Fencing Society puts on a display.
Clockwise from top left, Pagan Society, Jitsu, Women’s Rugby, Gospel Choir, Taikwondo, Cornerstone Church, American Studies, , African Caribbean. Above, Frisbee and Surf.
careers 26
societies 24 -25
music 23
student media 22
front row 21
film 20
fashion 19
Freshers’ Fayre in pictures
freshers 16-17
25
features 14-15
7 October 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk
26 YOUR FUTURE MAPPED OUT
careers
Don’t leave it until the third year to start thinking about your career Improve your employability now to get a head start in the jobs’ world, says Jo Davies.
employers attending such as CIMA, Teach First, Civil Service Fast Track and Arrup amongst others. The Employer Talks are really informal and usually have no more than 45 students at them which would give you the chance to ask questions. Book your place via www.swansea.ac.uk/careers.
W
Paid internships
ELCOME back from the Careers & Employability team. Hang on a second, it’s only the beginning of term, I hear you cry! Why do I need to think about this now? Careers and Employability is little bit like preparing for a marathon: it’s all the little things that you do beforehand that make the race easier. These little things could be doing some voluntary work, a work placement, being a student ambassador, holding down a part-time job or coming along to activities organised by the Careers & Employability team. Think of ‘Careers’ and ‘Employability’ as something that could happen alongside your studies, your part time work and even your social life. Careers & Employability doesn’t have to be a scary subject that you only start thinking about at some point in your final year, it can be something you quietly develop throughout your time at university. So, you’re thinking you might be interested? Well here’s what we have got to offer you this academic year...
Employer talks Have a think about attending our Employer Talks programme every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 5–6pm – this term we have some really exciting
If you’re keen on gaining some hands on, graduatelevel work experience, why not find out more about SPIN (Swansea Paid Internship Network) and WoW (Week of Work)? These are our fantastic work experience programmes giving you the chance to considerably boost your CV and general employability. Visit http://www.swansea.ac.uk/work-placements/ for more information and details of how to apply.
Workshops
Meet the careers advisers who see students and run workshops - Jennie Drewson, Gareth Hill and Rebecca Vaughan.
If you’re beginning to think about your future prospects, we are running workshops every Monday and Wednesday over the lunch time period, where our hints and tips will be revealed. Check out www.swansea.ac.uk/careers for more information. Don’t forget that each college has its own career adviser who will run events specific to your college and will be really keen to work with you. We would like to help you along the Careers & Employability path, so that you can decide what steps you might like to take; after all it is your choice. You never know all this ‘stuff’ might actually turn out to be useful and quite fun along the way. Looking forward to working with you this year! See http://swansea.prospects.ac.uk
Careers talks/skill sessions Oct-Dec 2013 Monday 14/10/2013
12:00-13:00
Careers & Employability Workshop - Session 1 - Getting Started With C & E - Gareth Hill
Weds
16/10/2013
13:00-14:00
Careers & Employability Workshop - Session 2 - Personal Branding With C & E - Jennie Drewson
Thurs
17/10/2013
17:00-18:00 Teach English in China With TEIC
Monday 21/10/2013
12:00-13:00
C & E Workshop - Session 3 - How to write an effective CV and cover letter With C & E -Gareth Hill
Tuesday 22/10/2013 17:00-18:00 H R Fast Stream With the Welsh Government Weds
23/10/2013
13:00-14:00
C & E Workshop - Session 4 - Understanding Commercial Awareness With C & E - Jennie Drewson
Thursday 24/10/2013
17:00-18:00 Speed Employability Workshop With CIMA (Chartered Institute of Managment Accountants
Monday 28/10/2013
12:00-13:00
C & E Workshop - Session 5 - Sourcing and preparing for graduate jobs With C& E Zdravka Kamenova
Tuesday 29/10/2013 17:00-18:00 Skills Session - TBC With Teach First Weds
30/10/2013
13:00-14:00
C & E Workshop - Session 6 - How to write an effective CV and cover letter With C & E - Becca Vaughan
Monday 04/11/2013
12:00-13:00
C & E Workshop - Session 7 - Sourcing and preparing for graduate jobs With C & E - Zdravka Kamenova
Tuesday 05/11/2013 17:00-18:00 Skills Session With Morgan Technical Ceramics Weds
06/11/2013
13:00-14:00
C & E Workshop - Session 8 - Understanding the recruitment process With C & E - Becca Vaughan
Thurs 07/11/2013 17:00-18:00 Skills Session With Arup Tuesday 12/11/2013 17:00-18:00 Skills Session With Aberystwyth University Thursday 14/11/2013
17:00-18:00 Skills Session - Interview Techniques TBC
With PwC
Tuesday 19/11/2013
17:00-18:00 Research Placements - Action for the Wild and UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve With Colchester Zoo
Thursday 21/11/2013 17:00-18:00 Title - TBC With KAUTEX TEXTRON CVS LTD Tuesday 26/11/2013
17:00-18:00
Hoare Lea Graduate and Placement Recruitment Process With Hoare Lea
Thursday 28/11/2013 17:00-18:00 Skills Session With Fujitsu Tuesday 03/12/2013 17:00-18:00 Talk With Smaller Earth
Book online at www.swansea.ac.uk/careers/careersfairevents.
A Ginsters Premium or Classic Sandwich, or a Chicken / Tuna Pasta or Cheese Layered Salad. A 50g Bag Of McCoy’s & 500ml Drink.
A Ginsters Pasty, Slice or Sausage Roll or a Simply Sandwich or Roll, A bag of Walkers Std Crisps and a 330ml Can of Drink
28 I SPORT
thewaterfront 07.10.13
Rugby Union
Swansea University Rugby Club announces Ospreys rugby development programme
SWANSEA’S FINEST: (left to right) Alun-Wyn Jones (Ospreys captain & SU alumnus ), Sam Lewis (SU and Ospreys), Prof Noel Thompson (SU Pro Vice Chancellor), Nicky Thomas (SU & Ospreys), and Reuben Tucker (2013-14 SU rugby captain). IN a huge coup for the club and lifestyle planning and strength and by Tom Nightingale Swansea University, 2013-14 will conditioning testing and coaching. waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk see the university’s rugby club Swansea University Ospreys rugby working alongside the Ospreys already successful rugby structure at scholarships will also be made and becoming a part of the region’s the University by engaging sporting available for potential students groundbreaking development scholars with rugby experts. wishing to pursue a dual career path. Players from the university will structure. The 1st XV University team will The relationship will mean that benefit from nutritional testing continue to be led by Osprey underthe Ospreys will help support the and advice, sports psychology, 20s Head Coach Richard Lancaster,
and he will now be assisted by Dan Griffiths, Elite Youth Performance Manager at the Ospreys. There will also be workshops through the season with Osprey senior coaches and players and training sessions with the senior team. As part of the extended relationship, Swansea University’s logo will, for the first time, appear on the Ospreys jersey this season. Lancaster, the university’s Head of Rugby, was thrilled with the link. “This new structure allows a further level of talent identification for the Ospreys whilst also assisting those students with high aspirations an enhanced level of support and rugby education only available from sporting professionals,” he explained. “The university is attracting a higher standard of rugby player with each intake and so we have a responsibility to these students to ensure their development continues. “80% of the individuals in our squads over the past three years have played premiership rugby, 5% playing regional LV=. We are looking forward to building on this momentum and
these impressive achievements. “The relationship with the Ospreys is flourishing and both organisations are seeing real benefits. “The establishment of this extended pathway is another step forward, building on the introduction of ticket incentives for our student population, research collaboration with our outstanding Sports Science Department and, of course, the university’s sponsorship of the Ospreys’ jersey.” Ospreys Chief Executive, Andrew Hore, said: “By having this association with the university we are providing another avenue for those players who may not have caught our attention at the younger age, while for their part the university gets access to our cutting edge rugby knowledge and expertise – something which will benefits all students involved within their rugby structure. “This is yet another example of Swansea University and the Ospreys, two businesses at the centre of the local community, working in collaboration to provide opportunities for young people.”
waterfrontonline.co.uk
SPORT I 29
Football
SUMFC set sights on season of steady progress ahead of new BUCS campaign ONE of the co-captains of Swansea University men’s football club has backed the club to go from strength to strength after a season of mixed success in 2013-14 The club’s teams experienced different levels of success throughout the BUCS divisions, from consolidation to promotion. In their first season in the BUCS MARS Premier South division after their promotion in 2011-12, the first team adapted well to the higher level and finished a respectable fifth. The club’s second team secured promotion from the Western 3B conference on a thrilling final day of the season, which also saw Swansea’s third team escape relegation from Western 4B. The fourth and fifth teams also finished in the same position in the Western 5B and Western 6B divisions respectively. And over in the university’s
by Tom Nightingale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
intramural league, both the SUMFC sixth and seventh teams performed strongly. Unfortunately there was to be no crowning glory, as the club went down 2-3 to Cardiff at the 2013 Welsh Varsity. SUMFC twice hauled themselves level after going behind, but were eventually beaten by a secondhalf Cardiff winner in a gutsy performance. One of the club’s co-captains for the 2013-14 season, Nick Evans, is optimistic for what the new season promises for one of Swansea Uni’s most prestigious clubs. “It was a year of mixed emotions for the club,” he explained. “The firsts came fifth in the BUCs Premier South which was very commendable against opposition such as Hartpury and Chichester. .
“The club rebranded their football ethic and really tried to play in the ‘Swansea way’, so a passing game was filtered from the first team all the way through our seven sides. “Perhaps the pinnacle for the club was the final day of the season when the seconds gained promotion and the thirds defied the odds and carried out their very own great escape to avoid relegation. “This year we look to improve every side in all way possible, with a particular focus on the fourths and fifths. “Myself and fellow club captain, Jim Roberts, are in a good position ahead of this season, and we’re looking for more of the same as the club hopefully go from strength to strength, as they did under the leadership of Bill Griffiths and James Stevens-Leach last year.” SUMFC’s BUCS season gets underway on Weds 16th October.
CALLS FOR CONSOLIDATION: SUMFC have their eyes on a season of stability and success.
SWANSEA INTRAMURAL FOOTBALL
Intramural to raise profile
BIGGER & BETTER: Swansea University intramural is going from strength to strength. THERE are a number of exciting new changes to the set-up of intramural football at Swansea University which look set to ensure an exciting year for all involved. One such change is the introduction of an ‘Intramural Select XI’, which will compete against other universities on a Saturday. League Chairman Dan Newberry thinks that the introduction of an intramural touring side will lead to an even more professional league,
by Max Stevens waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
with players striving to be selected to represent the league in matches against other universities. The introduction of a regular Intramural Select XI may also allow for a more cohesive performance come the 2014 Welsh Varsity, Swansea having suffered a shock 2-0 defeat at last year’s event. Newberry, who took over the post from Owain Harries in September,
has been part of intramural for all of the three years he has spent at the university; as a referee, a player and now as the chairman of the Intramural Committee. The Intramural Committee have also managed to secure sponsorship from Peppermint Bar and Kitchen Swansea, which Newberry says will mean “privileges exclusively for intramural players.” It has also meant that the cost for teams per game has been able to be reduced by £8; this corresponds with the committee’s main aim “to reduce the costs for the league teams to operate”. Over the past three years he has witnessed the growth of intramural into what he now claims is the “biggest club in the university”, something which he is very proud of. This year sees a record number of members in the intramural setup, and the committee have in fact had to turn down six teams as there simply aren’t enough pitches to satisfy the demand.
Three teams to watch in Swansea Intramural in 2013-14 Team Sloth Team Sloth are one of Swansea University Intramural’s most decorated clubs, having won the Intramural Cup three times in the past five seasons. Sloth won the cup again with a confident 4-0 mauling of Swansea University Men’s FC 7ths in the final last season, and don’t be surprised to see them there or thereabouts again come April.
by Max Stevens waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Ajax Treesdown A last-minute winner in the final game of the season last year meant that Ajax Treesdown FC beat Swansea University Men’s FC 6ths to the league title in dramatic fashion. Having also won the cup in 2011 you can expect Ajax to be a force to reckon with again in the coming season. University 6ths One of two Swansea University Men’s FC team’s partaking in the intramural league. Having had the horror of seeing the league slip out of their fingers in the final minutes of last season’s campaign they will be itching to get revenge and regain the title they won in 2011.
30 I SPORT
thewaterfront 07.10.13
Boccia
Historic boccia double gold for university’s David Smith
SWANSEA University student and paralympic champion Boccia player David Smith returned from the European Boccia Championships in Guimiraes, Portugal in July with two gold medals. In an unprecedented achievement, David, who has cerebral palsy spastic quadrapledia, won the team and individual gold medals at the championships, making him the first British boccia player to achieve this. This historic double means that
by Tom Nightingale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
David maintains his world ranking as joint number 1. David, in his fourth year studying Aerospace Engineering at Swansea, learnt how to play Boccia at Treloars College in Hampshire. Aged 14 he became the youngest ever player to secure the title of British Champion and he was crowned World Champion at the age of 18. He was also a key member of the British boccia team that won the
gold medal at the 2008 Summer Paralympics. He competed for Great Britain at the 2012 Summer Paralympics and won a team bronze and an individual silver in front of a packed arena. In addition to the Paralympics he won double gold at the 2007 World Cup, Individual gold at 2009 European championships, individual gold at the 2011 Europa Cup, and was on the bronze winning team at the 2011 World Cup. In Individual competition, David’s achievements include winning golds at the 2011 Europa Cup in Hamar, Norway, the 2009 European Championships in Porto, Portugal, and the 2007 World Cup in Vancouver, Canada. He has also remained unbeaten for seven years at English Nationals and GB Championships. In team events, David has won bronzes at the 2011 World Cup in Belfast and the 2006 World Championships in Rio de Janeiro; silver at the 2009 European Championships; and gold at the 2007 World Cup in Vancouver.
Swansea Uni to host 2014 BUCS conference by Tom Nightingale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
IN a move which reflects Swansea University’s sporting progress over the last few years, the university has been chosen to host the British Universities & College Sport (BUCS) Conference. The conference, which attracts over 400 delegates from across the university sport sector, will be hosted in July 2014. The exciting news means that 2014 is going to be a great sporting year at the university and confirms Swansea University as a centre for sporting excellence. The University Sports Village has also been selected to host two prestigious events in the summer of 2014, the European Touch Rugby Championships (7–10 August) and the International Paralympic Association European Athletics Championships (18 – 23 August). Possessing exceptional facilities such as the Wales national swimming pool, and the impressive Sports Village, Swansea University has a strong track record of producing
notable successful sportsmen and women, and is building a reputation as a natural centre for sporting excellence. The announcement of Swansea University as the BUCS 2014 Conference hosts was made at the closing session of this year’s BUCS Conference which was held at Heriot-Watt University. On Swansea’s appointment, BUCS CEO Karen Rothery said: “I am delighted that Swansea University has been chosen to host BUCS Conference 2014. “The conference attracts over 400 delegates from the university sport sector, and I look forward to working with Swansea over the next year to make sure the 2014 conference allows BUCS, and our hosts, to demonstrate the power of university sport in the UK.”
waterfrontonline.co.uk
SPORT I 31
Hockey
Samra hails stability of hockey club ahead of 2013-14 season THIS year promises to be a big one for Swansea University Men’s Hockey. Named Sports Club of the Year at last year’s union awards, the club is looking to build on last season’s success throughout all three teams. The 1st team enjoyed a great season, which earned them double promotion. In the Saturday league, they were promoted to Championship level, winning the league outright as well as every home game along the way. In the Wednesday BUCS league, they will now play in the Western 1A division alongside fierce rivals Cardiff 1st team. The 2nd’s had a mixed season. In their Saturday league, they had to wait until the last day of the season to seal promotion. The side also enjoyed a good cup run, eventually going out to Gloucester’s first team. However, they will be hoping to improve on last season’s BUCS league campaign, where they failed to record a single win all season. The 3rds also celebrated a double promotion, winning both their respective leagues. They will now
by David Beale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
compete in the De Cymru 1 league on Saturdays and Western 3B on Wednesdays. Their first BUCS game of the season sees them take on the 2nd team in what should be a keenly contested game. Club Captain Puv Samra was delighted with last seasons performance. “Last year the club had an incredible season with two of the three teams being promoted in their respective BUCS leagues. “Also, in our Saturday leagues all of the teams were promoted, with the first team now playing the highest level of hockey in Wales. “This year the aim is to stay in the leagues and consolidate on what was achieved last year.” Samra believes these aims are achievable thanks to the stability and continuity at the club. A large amount of players are have remained at the club, as well a good intake of new players at the Fresher’s Fayre. “Since last year not that much has changed apart from the team
Watersports
360 centre celebrates birthday by Tom Nightingale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
HIGH HOPES: Swansea University men’s hockey club are looking for further success captains. Jonny Cardy is the new first team captain, with Alex Trew and James Dartnell taking charge of the 2nd’s and 3rds respectively.” The three teams enjoyed mixed fortunes at the start of the season this weekend. The 1st team drew
0-0 away at Westbury and UB, while the 2nd team lost 2-0 to Neath. However, the 3rds did have a winning start, running out 3-1 victors against Cardiff 4ths. The BUCS season gets underway on the 16th October.
360 Marina 5km to return in 2014 as heart charity fundraiser by Tom Nightingale waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
THE annual 360 Marina 5km road race along Swansea promenade returns for its second year this year, this time as a fundraising event for leading heart charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY). The race will be in honour of Swansea Trotters club member Timothy Butt who survived a sudden cardiac arrest earlier this year. Following the sell-out success of the inaugural race where 100 runners took part, the event returns with an extension from Swansea Council enabling the race to host 250 participants. Through the event’s popularity, organisers, Swansea Trotters, have seen an opportunity to expand and introduce a charity cause close to the clubs’ heart. Steven M. Jones, Club President & event organiser, said: “Our club is built on friendship, so to turn the race into a fundraiser in tribute of Tim was a nobrainer. “The news of his cardiac arrest shook us all, so to be able to raise awareness of the condition through supporting CRY is highly important to us.
“I was blown away by the success of the 5km in its first year; we had a fantastic turnout and a professionallyrun event thanks to the team and my fellow organiser Richard Mann. “Building from this success I strongly believe we will reach the 250 attendee mark in March. “In addition, we are hugely grateful to 360 Beach & Watersports & Swansea Council for enabling us to put on the race for the second year running and to Swansea University and CRY for their support and collaboration.” “I am delighted and extremely grateful that the event is being held in support of CRY, a charity that I fully support”, Timothy Butt said when asked what it meant to him to have the race act as a charity event for CRY. “This is just one example of how the Swansea Trotters family have really supported me as a member and my recovery from my cardiac arrest. I would like to thank the club, the members and the organisers for their hard work to put on the event. I am really looking forward to the run.” Online registration is now open at http://swanseatrotters.com/360marina-5k-register/. There will be a fee of £5 to register to support the organisation of the event, as well as provide a donation to the CRY charity.
360 Beach and Watersports, Swansea Bay’s premier beach and water activity facility, celebrated its first birthday on September 28th 2013. To mark the occasion, 360 have unveiled the London 2012 Olympic beach volleyball court, which will now permanently reside at the centre, and will host an action filled weekend with demonstrations, tournaments, free drop-in sessions and a packed watersports programme. The Olympic beach volleyball court was donated to 360 via Volleyball Wales as part of the London 2012 legacy programme and will now be available for hire throughout the year by families, groups and individuals. Since opening, 360, which is run in partnership by Swansea University and Bay Leisure Ltd, has attracted over 120,000 visitors. Catering for complete beginners and experienced athletes alike, 360 have delivered sessions in kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, beach volleyball and tennis to people from all backgrounds and from ages 5-75. Kate Hannington, General Manager is thrilled with how the centre’s first year has gone. “The last year has been a huge success. We have worked hard to develop and to attract people from across Swansea, Wales and the UK and now have a regular base of customers participating in sports and activities previously unavailable in Swansea. “The facility has been warmly received by the local community who feel that 360 is a welcome addition to the Bay’s stunning landscape. We have huge plans for the future and hope to go from strength to strength.” Paul Robinson, Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities Management at Swansea University is delighted at what the centre does for the University and its students. “The partnership with Bay Leisure has allowed us to develop a facility that further enhances the outstanding sports offering at the University. “There are very few universities in the UK that are lucky enough to have a beach on their doorstep and we are very pleased that 360 is allowing us to deliver these unique opportunities.” 360 was developed by Swansea Council as part of a multi-million pound project launched last October that aims at making Swansea Bay a Watersports Centre of Excellence. The centre is located on Mumbles Road, Swansea Bay, opposite the St Helens Rugby & Cricket Ground. For more information visit www.360swansea.co.uk
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Issue 230
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7 October 2013
HOCKIN HOPING TO BUILD ON SURFC SUCCESS
Inside This Issue Rugby Union
SURFC to benefit from Ospreys link-up
p28 Interview
Intramural set for biggest season ever
VARSITY VICTORS: But Swansea University Men’s Rugby Club have even bolder aims and aspirations for the 2013-14 season. SWANSEA University men’s rugby union enjoyed a prosperous 2012/13, and club captain Will Hockin believes that the club can push on to achieve even more success this time around. The men’s rugby stole the show at Varsity, with an impressive 21-13 win over Cardiff in the Welsh capital mercifully overshadowing Swansea’s generally uninspiring results across the board. The Freshers’ team also triumphed in their encounter, and the club returned to the land of green and white as heroes. On top of Varsity victory, the first team made it to the BUCS Vase final, while the second and fourth teams performed admirably in their respective leagues. Hockin believes
by Ned Bristow waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
that the club has plenty more to offer. “Of course, the main focus for the first team is the Varsity match. However, performing well in the BUCS league is also a big goal for us, and if we could go one better than last year and get some silverware that would be brilliant. “The second team are pushing for promotion from BUCS Western 1B, while the third team will be hoping to build on a slightly disappointing season and finish much higher up the table. As for the Freshers, their eyes too will be firmly fixed on their Varsity match against Cardiff. “This year we are trying harder
than ever to promote links between Freshers and seniors within the club. We have a number of socials designed to help this and make sure that all members of SURFC feel at home.” With the season fast approaching, preparation has begun in earnest. The first team have returned to training, and recently encountered a Cardiff RFC development side at Cardiff Arms Park. Despite losing the match, Hockin maintains that there are promising signs ahead of the upcoming season. “Pre-season is going well for the boys. They lost the match [against Cardiff RFC] but there were many positives to take. Additionally, the team have enjoyed the benefit of nutrition and sports psychology experts this week, to help them
improve their game.” Hockin confirmed that the university has announced an official partnership with Pro 12 club Ospreys (see page 28). “This will obviously mean greater links with the Swansea-based side, and they will be able to impart their professional knowledge to aid all of our teams in the upcoming season.” Swansea University has a history of nurturing elite players on their way to international success, and Alun-Wyn Jones, Dwayne Peel and Rob Howley have all played for the club. Some excellent groundwork is in place to make the 2013/14 season even more successful than the last, and the club is in a promising position in order to make it happen.
p29 Sport Swansea
Men’s hockey club outline hopes for the season
p31
Selected Upcoming Fixtures October 9th
October 16th
Men’s Rugby Union
Men’s Badminton
Men’s Rugby Union
Men’s Basketball
Men’s Badminton
Men’s BasketbalL
Men’s Rugby Union
Men’s Football
EXETER 1st v SWANSEA 1st SWANSEA 2nd v UWE 1st BATH 3rd v SWANSEA 1st CARDIFF 4th v SWANSEA 1st
BATH 2nd VS SWANSEA 1st SWANSEA 1st VS S’TON SOLENT 1st SWANSEA 2nd VS SW NEWPORT 1st BATH 2nd VS SWANSEA 2nd
Final BUCS 2013 1 2 3 4 5
Loughborough Durham Birmingham Bath Exeter
5499 3419 3135 2724 2667
24 Sheffield Hallam 1236.5 25 Swansea 1148.5 26 St Andrews 1071.5
psssst...don’t forget.... you need to pay your Platinum & Gold package remainders off in order to gain access to the events!