thewaterfront
Free Issue 207 November 14, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
INSIDE
the official student newspaper of swansea university NEWS
Sharp rise in bicycle thefts on campus
FEATURES
page 5
Why I love being my own boss page 14
SPORT
Football teams set for duel
page 31
LANDLORDS AND ESTATE AGENTS’ MIXED REVIEWS
Horror stories about some from students but there are nice ones out there too by Becca Taylor
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk LANDLORDS and estate agents have received mixed feedback about their dealings with students. The “Rate Your Landlord” survey by Swansea University students’ union had more than 900 response for questions on everything from how early they signed contracts to whether or not they took photos of the accommodation. More than half said they would recommend their accommodation to friends, but less than half were willing to endorse their landlords. The survey found a healthy 95% of the respondents viewed the house before they signed for it, and 94.3% had seen the contract, with 38.4% getting it checked by a friend, relative or the SU advice centre. The most important criterion for finding a house was the location, condition and the cost. Students ranked the letting agents as low importance in renting a house, though 27% then said they would not recommend their letting agent to a friend. In terms of student satisfaction, out of a maximum of six, the average for all ratings was below four. Students were also asked to leave comments about their properties or letting agents in the survey.
One said: “[I had] mould in my bedroom, slugs in the kitchen and bathroom, woodlice in the hall. It was horrible.” Another said: “Landlord switched letting agency as we moved in and we were not told. “A lot of people had keys to the property and let themselves into the property without knocking the door or telling us they were coming.” But over half of the respondents claimed they would recommend their accommodation to a friend, and 44% would recommend their landlord as well. One student said: “We reached Swansea at midnight; our landlord came all the way to pick us up and dropped us in our accommodation. “We cannot forget the great help he extended towards us.” Another described their landlord as “lovely and helpful” while others planned to stay with their landlords for years to come because of their good experience. The results indicated that it is a minority of landlords that seem to give a bad name to them all. The survey, written by welfare officer Charlotte Britton and Matthew Hurst. Miss Britton said: “It’s important to remember there are lovely landlords out there – but as you can see
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thewaterfront Third floor, Students’ Union Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP (01792) 295 988 editor@swansea-union.co.uk web: waterfrontonline.co.uk twitter: thewaterfrontSU facebook: the waterfront swansea SECTION EDITORS News Callum Cameron, Becca Taylor waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
Features Samantha Booth waterfrontfeatures@gmail.com
Sport Craig Hadley, David Hendy waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Front Jon May front@swansea-union.co.uk Music Alex Gibbs waterfrontmusic@swansea-union.co.uk
Film Andrew Williams waterfrontfilm@swansea-union.co.uk
Culture Aiden Ramsey waterfrontculture@swansea-union.co.uk
Listings Russell Wade waterfrontlistings@swansea-union.co.uk
Societies James Langridge waterfrontsocieties@swansea-union.co.uk
Travel Zoe Gullett waterfronttravel@swansea-union.co.uk
Fashion Lucinda Reid waterfrontfashion@swansea-union.co.uk
Games Matt Edwards waterfrontgames@swansea-union.co.uk
Gadgets Richard Cowie waterfrontgadgets@swansea-union.co.uk
Proof readers Gem Tregellas, Amy Moore Designers Max Murdoch Photographers photographysu@gmail.com Website waterfrontweb@swansea-union.co.uk
Advertising Annie Cottam (01792) 602496
EUROPE-BOUND: (l-r) Computer science students Thomas Chamberlain, Matthew Pike, Horia Maior and Sorin Dinu are heading to Bremen in Germany
Computer science students head to Germany for Euro competition by Robyn Paul
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk FOUR computer science students will take part in a prestigious European computing competition later this month, thanks to a funding award from leading technology firm HP. Sorin Dinu, Horia Maior, Thomas Chamberlain, and Matthew Pike will compete in the Northwestern European regional programming contest (NERWC 2011), at
Jacobs University in Bremen, Germany from November 25-27 where their computer skills will be put to the test against leading competitors from institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial and other universities from across Europe. An award of £1,800 was made to the team by HP through Swansea University-led Software Alliance Wales, which will enable the students and an academic mentor to attend and compete
in the contest. Professor Matt Jones, head of the computer science department at Swansea University said: “We’re hugely appreciative of this funding from HP, and very grateful to Software Alliance Wales for their assistance. “This sponsorship will allow our students to show what computer science has to offer by competing on an international stage, and I wish them all the very best in their endeavours.”
Third year Mr Maior said: “I’m really looking forward to taking part in NWERC 2011 and grateful to the support from the department, Software Alliance Wales and HP. “We’re all really excited and can’t wait to show the competition what Swansea can do.” The winners will go through to the ACM International Collegiate programming contest world finals in Warsaw, Poland.
New societies scheme will offer Landlords “stamp of achievement” awards and agents <<< from page 1
by James Langridge
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk A NEW scheme has been launched which recognises and rewards sports teams and societies. The Enterprising Student Societies Accreditation (Essa) offers formal recognition of the society and sport team work, with an official stamp of achievement offered that is recognised by employers. Societies are also potentially offered national coverage as part of the Essa awards and entered into a draw with the potential to win £25,000.
The scheme, which is supported by the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), began as attempt to allow students to differentiate themselves in an increasingly full graduate job market. An RBS spokesperson said: “Employers are going to be looking for you to go a step further. “They will be looking for accreditations that separate the applications.” To become involved in the scheme, you have to first join an enterprising society. Once you have done that, you have to sign up that society to be Essa recog-
Meeting Times (Meetings are in the Waterfront office) Features Front Section editors News & Sport De-brief & Ideas
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nised. In order to achieve this, the society must fulfil a few points from a check list which includes steady membership numbers, organising events and ensuring funding. Only then will there be a certificate rewarded formally recognising dedication to extracurricular activities. Raise and Give is just one of the societies that have submitted an application and is among many applications from all over the country. For more information, visit www.theessa.com.
Final deadlines for next issue Earlier copy and picture deadlines will apply Features Front News Sport
Friday, November 19 Friday, November 19 Wednesday, November 23 Thursday, November 24
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from the results of the survey a worrying number of students have had bad experiences. “It’s so important to know our rights, and that’s what the housing advice week (January 23-27) is for. “I’m using information from the survey to determine the issues that are focused on during the week, so it’s relevant to students and will directly help you not only when you sign a contract but throughout the year.” For more help and advice, contact the advice centre, or Charlotte Britton.
Disclaimer The Waterfront thanks everyone who contributed to this issue. Content does not necessarily reflect the views of the students’ union, when an opinion is expressed it is the view of the journalist that is represented unless otherwise stated.
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Students snub London demo to hold fees campaign in Swansea by Callum Cameron
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University saw the return of demonstrations against fees last week with the launch rally of ‘Students Not Consumers’. At the forefront of the campaign is students’ union president Luke James who is back by the other full time officers and part time executive officers. Mr James said: “It’s a clear message - Swansea students will reject being treated as consumers because it will harm our student experience.” The officer-led campaign is targeted at making students aware of the consumerist idea that can often be seen at university, and can act toward harming their degrees. Education officer Rhiannon Hedge is also staunchly opposed to a “supermarket shelf degree” idea that can come out of this. Ms Hedge said: “The chaotic new tuition fees system promotes the idea of the student as a passive consumer. Students are not consumers; a degree is not a product from a supermarket shelf. “ The campaign coincides with other campaigns such as ‘The Living Wage Campaign’, which were both born out of motions passed at last month’s student forum.
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PROTESTING: Swansea students’ union sabbatical officers lead the students not consumers campaign outside Fulton House
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COMING SOON
Controversy over Harries makes it voting system in after re-run waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University students’ union’s recent executive and NUS elections have come under fire over claims of unfair voting practices. During the elections, students were able to vote for candidates who would not actually be representing them. This meant that freshers were able to vote for a post-graduate representative while postgraduates could vote for freshers’ representative. Last month’s elections were looking to fill those two posts as well as an officer to represent those who have caring responsibilities. In addition to these roles, voters were asked to elect delegates for the NUS Wales conference and the NUS UK conference. One student, who did not want to be named, said: “I did vote for candidates which wouldn’t be representing me, but
Industrial action goes ahead by Gemma Parry
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by Alicja Nugent
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if everyone could do the same, I don’t think it is that unfair.” Assistant returning officer Matt Hurst said: “It was in the conscience of the students to decide which categories they voted in. “The voting system is very complicated as the university only discloses if a student is a postgraduate. “This makes it difficult to categorise voters; however it is something we would look at rectifying for the elections next year.” Shona Vrac-Lee, also an assistant returning officer backed the voting system. She said: “The union are 100% behind the electronic voting, as it is more accessible to students and more people have voted as a result. “I hope that the union never has to go back to using ballot papers.” Despite the controversy, 601 votes were cast and the results can be found on the students’ union website.
WINNER: Owain Harries is also the Welsh affairs part-time officer for the students’ union
DEMONSTRATIONS took place at Swansea University’s campus to back the Universities and Colleges Union (UCU) in the fight against proposed changes to the pension scheme. The demonstrations were part of a wider protest being held from the University of London union to the city of London on Wednesday, November 9. The national Campaign Against Fees and Cuts called a UK-wide demonstration after seeing up to 67 members of the UCU beginning a campaign of sustained industrial action last month. The union’s members are angry about the proposed changes which were clearly displayed in March when five Welsh universities took strike action. One of the universities included in this list was Swansea, where UCU members walked out and lectures took industrial action. UCU says pensions changes will leave new staff up to £120,000 worse off. Simon Hoffman, president of the UCU at Swansea University said: “Pension cuts will have consequences for those working in higher education and the public sector today; but also for those who want to work in higher education or the public sector in the future.” Most students concerns lie with the apparent cuts to funding for higher education. General Secretary for the UCU, Sally Hunt, has already spoken of cuts to college grants and more expensive tuition fees.
by Becca Taylor
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk THE final NUS Welsh conference delegate has been confirmed after a tense draw meant a re-run was needed for the final available place. Owain Harries was declared the winner, beating Mahaboob Basha by 162 votes to 146. There were three places up for grabs in the election, and gender balancing meant that the two female candidates, Pearleen Sangha and Eleri Jones went through as well as students’ union president Luke James. In the first election, Mr Harries and Mr Basha were tied on 99 votes each. Mr Harries, who is also the Welsh affairs part-time officer for the SU, was thrilled to be elected following last Monday’s re-run. He said: “It was draining enough to run once, but when you find out you’ve got to do it all again you start to worry about getting on students’ nerves. “I changed my tactics for the second one. “Normally I don’t like people setting my banner as their profile picture, but it seemed to work as a blitz tactic.” Mr Basha extended his congratulations to Mr Harries for his win.
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Business as usual for Swansea’s biggest student night at Oceana
Sharp rise in bicycle thefts by Gemma Parry
by Becca Taylor
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk BOSSES at Oceana in Swansea have said the nightclub will trade as normal despite it’s parent company fell into administration. It means Swansea University’s biggest student night iLoveMondays will be able to continue “for the foreseeable future”. Doubt has been cast over the club’s future since Luminar appointed administrators at the end of last month with net debts of around £85m. The firm which owns 76 clubs, employs 2,500 staff across its Oceana, Liquid and Lava Ignite brands. It recorded losses of £198m in the year to the end of February as sales dropped by 19 per cent to £137m. Luminar blamed youth unemployment for its financial predicament, saying that it had adversely affected the spending power of 18 to 24-year-olds. It confirmed its banks - Lloyds, Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland - refused to extend loan facilities, leaving directors with “no option” but to call in administrators. “Accordingly, the directors of Luminar have no option but to take steps to place the company and certain of its subsidiaries into administration,” the company said in a statement. Wigan, Brighton, Bury St Edmunds, Basingstoke, Hemel Hempstead, Swindon, Mansfield, Redditch, High Wycombe, Sunderland clubs and Northampton, where a student died in a crush last month, will shut. Administrators Ernst and Young said that several inquiries had been received
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about Luminar’s remaining 65 clubs Steve Saunders manager of Oceana Swansea said his club would remain open and “would continue to provide the best nights out we can.” He said: “I’m sure everyone would agree Oceana has been as busy as ever. “Swansea is a great place to live, work and party.” Swansea’s Oceana is one of the biggest venues in the UK with a capacity of 3,000.
It employs 68 in bar staff, three managers and various contractors and DJs. It also just won the award for ‘Best After Dark Venue’ in the South Wales Culture and Lifestyle Awards, voted for by listeners of the Wave radio and Swansea Sound. Russell Wade, manager of Student Swansea Events, said: “We are obviously sad to hear that the parent company Luminar leisure had gone into administration.
“At present the flagship venue in Swansea has remained open and looks like that will continue. “We are very pleased to be able to carry on providing the biggest student nights in the country in Oceana. “We would like to thank Swansea students for their continued support at the student nights in Oceana and we have some great events lined up to the end of term.”
CAMPUS police have reported a remarkable increase in the number of bike thefts, especially in the last two week. A total of 15 bikes were stolen in just over a week from campus and the Hendrefoelan student village. Both campus security and local authorities say they are doing all they can to stop the thefts taking place. Thefts were first reported earlier in the term along with thefts from accommodation blocks on campus and in the student village. There have also been a number of mobile phones were stolen off campus in several Swansea city centre clubs. Latest figures show 213 mobile thefts so far this year in the city centre. E-mails have been sent to all students and staff giving information on how they can protect their possessions, which they are urged to read. The emails provide students with essential information which will help to reduce the amount of bike thefts in and around the university campuses. Students are urged not leave their bikes in isolated areas and to lock them securely to bike stands. It is also recommended that they remove attachments, such as wheels and lights, and take note of the serial code. The emails also highlight the importance of using a good quality, D-type lock on the bikes which will be able to resist attack for a short time. Visit room 5 at Cefn Bryn where the campus police are located or call 295882 for more information.
UniversityChallenge Xtreme up for three gongs team in pipeline at Student Radio Awards by Becca Taylor waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
STUDENTS will get their own chance to compete in University Challenge, thanks to a new team being set up for the first time in six years. Ross Davies, a welfare warden in Hendrefoelan student village, was part of the last team the university sent in 2005. Despite being underdogs, the Swansea team, made up of three undergraduate and a masters student, reached the last stage of qualifying rounds.. Mr Davies confirmed he will be holding an open session for information and for people to sign up ahead of the JC’s pub quizzes every Sunday. There will also be some sample questions slipped into the standard pub quiz to test the teams and see who might be able to compete. The deadline for team submission will be the end of November. “Last time we competed, we travelled
to Surrey and competed against two teams in that round, where we came second,” said Mr Davies. “We were knocked out in the following round, but considering we were against a team of PhD students from Oxford, we certainly surprised a lot of people. “It shows you don’t have to be doing your doctorate or even a masters to get through somewhere.” Davies will be using the postgraduate society as well as the welfare wardens connections to help attract interest. But he stressed that anyone is welcome to join in. For more information, you can contact Ross Davies on 320493@swansea.ac.uk or pop along to one of the sessions on Sunday evenings in JC’s. Last month, a team of students from Swansea University travelled up to Glasgow to film the BBC One quiz show Eggheads. Their performance will be screened in the new year.
by Jazz Dicker
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk THE Student Radio Awards takes place on Wednesday at the O2 Arena in London and after a successful year for Xtreme Radio, the nominations have been flooding in. Xtreme Radio has been nominated three times this year, including two ‘technical achievement’ nominations and one ‘best female presenter’ nomination for Michelle Owen. Station manager Lewis Crompton is proud of the nominations the station has received and believes that they have every chance of winning. He said: “Winning the awards would be a huge boost for the station. “Our engineering department are always coming up with new ways to put us on the technical achievement map and Michelle getting nominated for best female presenter is absolutely brilliant for us.”
In the past, Xtreme Radio has won a silver award for ‘best technical achievement’ having released an iPhone app. The awards are a prestigious event run by the Student Radio Association and BBC Radio 1 and they will be hosted this year by Annie Mac and Scott Mills. The nomination process takes place every year through the summer months with hundreds of entries across being judged by radio industry professionals to produce a shortlist of six nominees in each category.
This year’s awards received over 500 entries from more than 70 student radio stations across the UK. Xtreme Radio is now being played in JC’s during the day which is a great progression for the station as it can now reach even more students. Mr Crompton added: “Hopefully it will provide the perfect soundtrack to JC’s and help to build on the community atmosphere that we have on campus, after all Xtreme is run by students for students.”
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OFFICERS’ CORNER rhiannon hedge - education
Many of you will remember this time last year we were on eve of a Parliamentary vote on tuition fees. Some of you will have joined us on coaches to London to join the biggest demonstration on education issues in more than a generation. The government voted to let universities charge students between £6,000 and £9,000 tuition fees a year, and to slash public funding to universities. As a student movement, we lost a battle. But we need crucial wins to protect student rights and the way they are perceived by the institutions that are charging them so much for their education. At the first student forum of the year, students voted on the direction our education in the run up to the introduction of £9,000 tuition fees for non-Welsh students and the withdrawal of state funding from universities. Campaigning against the government’s desire to class students as passive consumers, rather than strong stakeholders in their own learning was deemed the priority. Our ‘Students Not Consumers’ rally was held on November 9 as part of a national day of action, and some good discussion was prompted by the campaign. The government white paper on higher education that was published earlier this year is a terrifying read. It claims they are putting students at the heart of the system but it’s riddled with hypocrisies, and our priorities as a union must be to stand up for the true value of education, which cannot and
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should not be measured by price tags. We are warning universities not to listen to government messages. We believe that protecting student rights and student partnership with the university are more important than ever. The government and many universities promise value for money to students. President Luke James told last week’s rally students must be allowed to take some responsibility for their learning as a spoon fed, ‘one size fits all’ degree does nothing for personal development. The plans set out for the new tuition fees system heavily promotes the idea of the student as a passive consumer. But students are not consumers; a degree is not a supermarket shelf product. Students cannot easily ‘take their business elsewhere’ if they are unhappy with the degree they are provided. We want to give students the power to help shape the delivery of their education before they need to raise complaints about the university’s service. Our message: Education is not a financial transaction; students’ unions are not consumer watchdogs; our role is bigger. The fight for education is far from over but if universities don’t treat students in their best interests, there’s a real danger an irreversible culture will emerge. If ‘value for money’ is central to the way education is delivered, then student rights is unlikely to recover even if a fairer funding system is achieved in future. Students shouldn’t get a brilliant service because they’re paying money for it, they should get a brilliant education because it’s a right. To get involved, pop in or e-mail educationofficer@swansea-union.co.uk.
Police appeal over attack on student in Odyssey by Callum Cameron
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk POLICE are appealing for witnesses following an assault in the toilets of a Swansea nightclub. A 19-year-old man was punched in the face in the incident, which happened in the gents toilets of the Odyssey club off Wind Street. The victim was later taken to Morriston Hospital where he was treated for a cut to the left side of his mouth. The victim did not see his attacker and is unable to give a description. It is not known if the attacker was a student or a local. The incident happened at about 12.30am on Thursday, October 6. PC Samantha Holley said: “The nightclub at this time of night would have pretty full, possibly with students. “I am appealing to anyone who saw the assault, which occurred in the vicinity of the gents toilets, to come forward.” Odyssey hosts the main sports night out on Wednesday evenings, which are run by the athletics union. The night is mostly attended by students from Swaansea University. If you have any information call Swansea police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
POPULAR: Odyssey off Wind Street hosts Wednesday night sports clubs TAR 2012
HYFFORDDWCH I ADDYSGU.
TRAIN TO TEACH.
Ydych chi’n gorffen eich gradd? Hoffech chi addysgu mewn ysgol gynradd neu uwchradd?
Just finishing your degree? Would you like to teach in a primary or secondary school?
Oes gennych chi radd, neu a ydych chi ar fin ennill gradd neu gymhwyster cyfwerth mewn unrhyw rai o’r pynciau a restrir gyferbyn?
Do you hold, or are about to hold, a degree or equivalent qualification in any of the subjects listed opposite?
Pam na wnewch chi astudio ar gyfer TAR ac ennill statws athro cymwysedig? Mae addysgu’n broffesiwn sy’n werth ei wneud. Gall gynnig rhagolygon gyrfa grêt a chyfradd tâl cystadleuol. Mae grantiau hyfforddi o rwng £6,000 a £9,000 ar gael ar gyfer rhai pynciau*.
Why not study for a PGCE and gain qualified teacher status? Teaching is a rewarding profession. It can offer great career prospects and competitive rates of pay. Training grants of between £6,000 and £9,000 are available for some subjects*.
*Yn amodol ar gadarnhad terfynol
*Subject to final confirmation
Ewch i www.smu.ac.uk Ffoniwch 01792 481010 E-bost prospectus@smu.ac.uk neu laura.aston@smu.ac.uk
Visit www.smu.ac.uk Call 01792 481010 Email prospectus@smu.ac.uk or laura.aston@smu.ac.uk
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YSGOL ADDYSG ABERTAWE, CAMPWS TOWNHILL. OS HOFFECH DDOD I’R BORE HWN, CADWCH LE TRWY GYSYLLTU Â LAURA ASTON AR 01792 481202 NEU E-BOST laura.aston@smu.ac.uk
PGCE SECONDARY INFORMATION MORNING, TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2011
THE SWANSEA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION, TOWNHILL CAMPUS. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND, PLEASE REGISTER YOUR PLACE BY CONTACTING LAURA ASTON ON 01792 481202 OR EMAIL laura.aston@smu.ac.uk
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CYMRAEG I 09
Y GORNEL GYMRAEG
C2 Radio Cymru a Magi Dodd yn recordio ar Campws! gan Glesni Morgan
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk Dros gyfnod y flwyddyn academaidd, mi fydd rhaglen radio ar-lein Maggi Dodd, Dodd Com, yn creu partneriaeth â’r brifysgol. Diben y bartneriaeth yw cynnig blas ar fywyd ym Mhrifysgol Abertawe, gan obeithio darbwyllo pobl i ddod i astudio yma. Fe’m mhenodwyd i fel llysgenhades y brifysgol a Llyr Roberts un fyfyriwr yr adran beirianneg fel is-ganhellor. Trwy gymryd ran mewn cwis ar y raglen y wnaethant benderfynu pwy fyddai’n cael pa rôl. Yn fuan wedi hynny, cawsom alwad ffon gan griw C2 am eu bod yn awyddus i ymweld â’r campws. Fe wnaethant adael eu sywddfeydd cyfforddus yng Nghaerdydd i ymuno â bwrlwm y campws. Profiad digon rhyfedd oedd cerdded llwybrau’r campws gan orfod siarad i mewn i’r meicroffon. Cafodd Magi Dodd daith tywys o amgylch fflatiau Cymraeg Penmaen a chael sgwrs â’r glas fyfyrwyr sy’n byw yno. Roedd yn hollol amlwg fod Dodd wedi synnu wrth ddarganfod fod ensutie ym mhob ystafell ac fe rhyfeddodd â safon uchel y neuadd o’i gymharu â neuaddau prifysgolion Aberystwyth a Chaerdydd. Gwaith digon sychedig oedd cyfweld
â’r myfyrwyr, felly’n ddigon naturiol bu rhaid i ni fynd a hi a chriw C2 am beint yn nhafarn JC’s. Hanner peint yn ddiweddarach wrth i’r criw mwynhau a rhyfeddu at y ‘Waterfront’ ac yn anad dim y gornel Gymraeg fe ymunodd Llyr Roberts ac Elin Hughes, un o lywyddion y Gymdeithas Gymraeg, âni i gael sgwrs. Braf oedd cael sgwrs am y Gymdeithas Gymraeg. Soniodd Magi Dodd ei bod yn llawer mwy ymwybodol ohono nawr nag yn y blynyddoedd a fu a’i bod yn amlwg bod yna fwrlwm ym mhlith y Cymry yn Abertawe ar hyn o bryd. Esboniodd Elin bod y deffroad a fu yn y gymdeithas wedi creu cymuned glos o Gymry Cymraeg ar draws y brifysgol boed y rheiny’n astudio Almaeneg neu meddygaeth. Ar ôl disychedu, parhau gwnaeth y daith o gwmpas yr Undeb, buom yn gweld Divas, swyddfa’r Waterfront, y ffreutur a’r amryfal siopau ar draws y brifysgol. Wedi hyn fe wnaethom ymlwybro tuag at y Taliesin, lle cafodd Maggi Dodd flasu bwyd y caffi cyn gael cip-olwg ar ddigywddiadur llawn y theatr a’r sinema. Daeth y daith i derfyn wrth i Llyr ein tywys o amgylch adeilad Faraday, yr adeilad sy’n gartref i’r twnel wynt enwog. Cadwch lygad allan am fod Maggi Dodd am ei bod yn bwriadu dychwelyd i’r brifysgol er mwyn mwynhau noson
Wener yn Tooters! Cofiwch wrando ar y rhaglen ar wefan Maggi Dodd, Dodd Com sy’n cael ei ddarlledu’n fyw bob nos rhwng saith ac wyth o’r gloch yr hwyr, ac efallai y clywch chi lais cyfarwydd. C2 yw cyfres cyffrous o rhaglenni ar Radio Cymru sydd yn cael ei anelu at pobl ifanc. Mae yna nifer o gyflwynwyr poblogaidd ar y sioe yn cynnwys Maggi Dodd ac hyd on oed Huw Stephens o
Radio 1, DJ a oedd yn cadeirydd Gwobrau Radio Myfyrwyr (SRA) am tair mlynedd! Gallwch chi ail wrando ar C2 a darlthwytho’i Podlediadau o’i wefan swyddogol ar http://www.bbc.co.uk/ radiocymru/c2/ lle alle chi hefyd darllen ei blog a chwarae’r gem newydd sbon, ‘Yn y grwf!’
Mwynhewch Tachwedd efo’r Gym Gym I ddechrau, hoffen I ddiolch I bawb ddaeth I Dawns y Rhyn-gol I Aberystwyth penwythnos dywethaf, gobeithio cafodd pawb amsar da, a dim yn diodde gormod dydd Sul! O hyn ymlaen, fydd newyddion y gym gym yn gael ei yrru drwy facebook ac hefyd drwy’r ebost a cafom gennych yn ystod ffair y glas, felly gall pawb cadw I fyny gyda digwyddiadau’r gym gym. Oes nad ydych chi yn rhan o’r dudalen Facebook, ymunwch efo ni a’r http://tinyurl.com/GymGymAbertawe Dydd Llun YMA, y 14ed, fydd Crol Gogs Vs Southies! Sori am y fyr rhybydd! Fydd pawb yn cyfarfod yn Moloks (drws nesaf Idols) am 9 o’r gloch, ac yn barod am noson anghofiadwy unwaith eto! Yn dilyn hyn, fydd pawb yn mynd i Oceana i orffen y noson! Ar y 22fed o Dachwedd yma fydd cwis dysgwyr. Croeso i bawb i ddod i fwynhau y cwis, ond fydd y pwyslais ar y dysgwyr i’w hybu i siarad cymraeg, ag i hefyd rhoi hyder iddynt i gymdeithasu yn gymraeg! Fydd Raffl yno hefyd, a cyfle i ennill ychydig o bethau, Felly byddwch
yno! Blwyddyn yma fydd y cinio Nadolig y Gym Gym yn gael ei gynnal yn y Mariott hotel ar y 5ed o Rhagfyr am 7 o’r gloch! Fydd y tocynnau yn costio £25 y person, a fydd hyn yn cynnwys champagne reception, 3 cwrs o fwyd, ac hefyd DJ hwyrach ymlaen yn y noson. Roedd y cinio llynedd yn y Cross Keys in Wind Street ac yn un o uchafbwyntiau’r blwyddyn. Efo’r cinio yn y Marriott eleni, rydym ni yn gobeithio cynnal noson hyd yn oed yn well a bwyd bendigedig! Gadewch i ni wybod ar Facebook neu trwy ebost (ygymdeithasgymraeg@swansea-union.co.uk ) os rydych chi eisiau dod! Fydd y cyfle nesaf i dalu am y trip wech gwlad i Dublin dydd Llun y 14ed, yn JC’s rhwng 2 a 4 o’r gloch! Mae 9 lle ar ol ar y trip, felly brysiwch er mwyn gael lle ar trip gorau y flwyddyn! Mae’r trip yn ystod penwythnos gyntaf ym mis Chwefror, sydd hefyd y penwythnos gyntaf ar ol arholiadau! S’dim ffordd yn well i ddathlu nag i ddilyn tim rygbi Cymru yn Iwerddon!
Diddordeb sgwennu’n Gymraeg? gan Owain Harries
welshaffairs@swansea-union.co.uk Ffansio ysgrifennu i babur newydd swyddogol y Brifysgol? Mae Gornel Gymraeg yn edrych am wirfyddolwyr i gyfrannu at y tudalen. Mae’n rhan o gyfansoddiad yr Undeb Myfyrwyr bod y Waterfront rhaid cael dudalen Gymraeg ym mhob rhifyn, ac mae’n gyfle wych i ddangos fod yna bresenoldeb bywiog Gymraeg yn y brifysgol. Efo’r GymGym yn gryfhau o flwyddyn i flwyddyn gyda tripiau diri o Dulyn i Gaeredin a croliau tu hwnt efo Gogs v Hwntws, mae yna ddigon i ysgrifennu amdano, ond mae wir angen ysgrifennwyr! Oes rydych chi’n dymuno i ysgrifennu am y Gornel Gymraeg, fe alle chi ysgrifennu am unrhyw beth rydych chi eisiau (o fewn rheswm!), ychwanegu lluniau ac edrych dros gwaith eich ffrindiau. Mae’n gyfle wych i defnyddio’ch Cymraeg a wella eich sgiliau ysgrifennu pan rydych yn y Brifysgol, rhywbeth sydd yn brin gyfle oes rydych chi’n astudio pwnc fel Peirianneg neu Mathamateg. Os rydych chi am ymuno efo ni, cysylltwch trwy ebost ar welshaffairs@swansea-union.co.uk. Hefyd, oes rydych chi eisiau cael stori yn y Gornel neu angen hysbysebu digwyddiad Cymraeg o amgylch y Brifysgol neu yn ardal Abertawe, gadewch i ni wybod a fe fyddwn ni yn cynnwys chi yn y Gornel!
Welsh quiz night for learners!
The first ever Welsh learners night will be launched in JC’s coffee side this month. On the 22nd of November at 7PM, there will be an opportunity for every student with interest in the Welsh language to learn some skills and take part in a quiz and other fun events. Whatever level of Welsh you are, wether you don’t know a single word or have taken some lessons before, don’t be frghtened to come along and learn some new phrases which you can use around campus whenever you see another Welsh speaker. If you would like more information about the event or would like to find out about more Welsh learning opportunities, email the Welsh affairs officer at welshaffairs@swansea-union.co.uk.
10 I NEWS
thewaterfront 207 14.11.11
front! Picture of The Blanks by Ben Jay
WHY NOT BE YOUR OWN BOSS?
YOUR TWO WEEK LISTINGS GUIDE
THE BLANKS ARE BACK!
COUCH SURFING IN BULGARIA
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societies 26
travel 25
culture 23
games 22
gadgets 22
film 21
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front row 18-19
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November 14, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
features 14-15
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
contents features 14 >>
societies 26
travel 25
culture 23
games 22
gadgets 22
film 21
music 20
food 19
front row 18-19
fashion 16-17
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features 14-15
front
November 17, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
Are games getting too easy? Matt Edwards has been weeping so you don’t have to
Can’t get a job? No worries. Be your own boss.
lol
fashion 16 >> How to look hot when it’s not. Plus Alex Turner: Style icon.
front row 18 >> Everything you need to know about what’s on and where in the next fortnight.
food 19 >> Goodbye kebabs, hello low-fat yogurt.
music 20 >> The Blanks are back. Such fun! Plus, something old, something new with Maroon 5.
film 21 >> The adventures of Steven Spielberg. And the latest films reviewed.
gadgets 22 >> Tablets - a student’s best friend? Plus spotlight on the new Nokia Lumia 800.
culture 23 >> Free ways to sample the arts in Swansea. Frank Vickery reviewed.
games 22 >> We review the latest games.
travel 25 >> Couch surfing in Bulgaria ...
societies 26 >> Language societies put on classes for the masses, plus spotlight on the Scandinavian Society.
oh god oh god oh god please help me mum FOR the last couple of weeks, I have been playing Dark Souls. Dark Souls has prided itself on being one hell of a difficult game. So much so, in fact, that the website for the game is as follows: www.preparetodie.com. Harsh. This reputation is not unfounded. Dark Souls is relentless. It is the type of game that will punish you for even the simplest mistake. It will boil you alive, chew you up and spit you out at one of the few checkpoints that exist if you so much as walk into a room without checking for any hidden enemies. Oh, and the bad guys you killed to get to the point where you died? Yeah, they respawn, too. Enjoy. Maybe I am a masochist, but I like it. I like the challenge that comes with making something as insanely difficult as possible. It makes victory that much more sweet, and it makes boss battles absolutely terrifying. For example, the third boss killed me within the first five seconds of the fight. Ten times. Once I managed surviving entering the room, he would let loose a pair of demon hounds. Ten more deaths. I eventually killed the dogs. Oh, look at that, I haven’t got any magic spells left and I still have to kill the boss. It was like trying to destroy a brick wall full of rusty nails with my head. It felt so, so good to best him. I don’t want exaggerate too much, but I couldn’t have felt prouder if I saved the world. No, wait, scratch that. I did save the world. From that sodding third boss. Screw you, third boss. It made me wonder if tweaking the difficulty could make other games that bit more satisfying. Some titles I have played seem to be rather forgiving. I understand that games have to accomodate for the more casual player, but I dislike having things handed to me. To me, a game is meant to be challenging. If I wanted to be told a story, I would read a book or watch a DVD. I would maybe even read the Daily Mail if I want something particularly melodramatic. Even game developers acknowledge that the true experience of playing a game lies in a good supply of punishment. Most people I know have played Halo: Reach. The ‘normal’ Halo’s legendary difficulty. Too difficulty description says that legendary for some? you’ll “face firm resistance from competent, determined enemies, but burn through enough ammo and you will eventually triumph”. The next difficulty level up, Heroic, tells you that “this is the way Halo is meant to be played”. Why, then, is the normal difficulty setting toned down? If anything, it implies that a challenge is not normal. How silly is that?
YO U N G E N T R E P R E N E U R S a R E F U T U R E O F E CO N O M Y
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features Andrew Higley
Can’t get a job? No worries Unemployment is a spectre facing all graduates, but brush up your self employability skills and you can be your own boss, as Jon May and Samantha Booth report.
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TUDENT employability figures for graduates are worrying. Swansea University came in the bottom quarter of a survey where graduates were ranked as how likely they were to find a job. In addition to the traditional nine ‘til five, Monday to Friday day job, there are also internships, placements and self-employment, writes Jon May. Most students don’t think about careers until they realise they can’t get a job. At that point it’s a bit late. If your CV is a little lacking in experience, apply for a position on a society committee, volunteer time or do something you can build up or show to a future employer (like becoming a journalist for the Waterfront!) We spoke to a few people about how selfemployment might be the answer and how to access the wealth of free information, money and help for starting businesses. Ben Hanson, President of the SIFE Swansea society said: “Creating the future leaders and entrepreneurs is key to the success of the economy but students cannot only rely on textbooks to help them get there.” The SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) society is part
of an international grouping of university teams that create community projects using business knowledge to empower and change people’s lives. Ben adds: “Hands-on business experience and the practical development of leadership skills will ensure graduates have what is necessary to become successful” Corina Edwards, Swansea University’s Enterprise Champion, said that there is a support network for students in their final year to help kickstart a career in working for yourself: “We can arrange one-to-one mentoring for you if you are considering setting up in business in Wales within the next six months. We work with a range of partners to connect you to the support you need”. Tough job market Rhiannon Hedge, Students Union Education Officer, said: “It’s no secret that students graduating from Swansea are facing a tough job market, and student led-entrepreneurship schemes are growing in strength all over the UK as students are working together to prove their worth. “The leadership skills student entrepreneurs are
fostering and the benefits they often bring to the local community around them are something we should be proud of.” The joys of self employment include setting your own working hours, being able to choose who you work for and you can take all of the profit home. The downside is exactly the same, with many selfemployed working long days, working and dealing with difficult customers and absorbing any loss your company experiences. It is certainly a satisfying experiencing and even if it’s only something that can get you through a couple years of University and graduation, it’s certainly something worth looking into. Do beware though, it requires a significant amount of commitment. Setting up as a sole trader means you’re the accountant, sales & marketing director, the customer contact and the receptionist. You have to make the coffee too. •For more details about the support and grants available, just email c.j.edwards@swansea.ac.uk or the SIFE Society: sifeswansea@live.com
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RADUATING from Swansea University in 2007, 26-year-old entrepreneur James Long aimed his determination into his own business, www. help-writing-english.com, a website that offers a viable essay proofreading service for students, writes Samantha Booth. James, who is currently situated in Vauxhall, South London, is making students aware of the benefits that selfemployment can offer to the most driven and motivated of students. “I moved from Exeter, Devon to study at Swansea as it offered the degree I wanted in International Relations and I liked the friendly feel of the university and the campus. “My most memorable moment was rowing in the Swansea Cardiff boat races in 2006/07. Both of these races were fantastic experiences, despite the fact that we lost them!” The drive to work for himself had been rooted with in James from a young age: “I have always had small businesses. At boarding school, I made a fortune selling chocolate, crisps, soft drinks and more. “During my gap year, I travelled to India and came back with loads of silver jewellery, scarves and other trinkets which I sold on the market stall I ran that year. It has always been my dream to make my living running a successful, ethical, and personally satisfying business. As the website is expanding, I’m getting closer to this.” “For me it was an easy decision to set up this business because I have always known that this is the sort of thing which satisfies me and gets me out of bed in the morning.” With the stride into entrepreneurial business can come difficulties: “The hardest part was taking a cut in income to take time out do all of this as well as getting the marketing right. We had to ensure that people understand how and why we are different from the rest of the industry and this can be expensive. “I guess this is difficult for everyone starting out in business, it certainly was for us. No matter how good your product is you should never underestimate how difficult getting customers through the door is.” Through hard work and commitment, James has managed to create an idea which is completely new and he reaps great rewards in the process: “I find growing a company really satisfying; I know that at the end of the day I played a part in building something completely new. “Our service is ethical. We will never write a student’s essay for them like some other companies. Instead we help people express themselves better by reading over their work and correcting errors in the grammar and spelling. “A student with great English but average ideas might get a better mark than an international student with fantastic ideas because of the way they express themselves. “My aim for www.helping-writing-english.com is that within a year the website will be recognised by students across the English-speaking world as being the fastest and highest quality essay proofreading service available. I want people to understand that we are run professionally and all of our work is done by graduates and post graduates to the highest standards.” Essential qualities needed to succeed in business include willingness to learn and the ability to think outside of the box. Luckily, James has these qualities: “I’m passionate about self-employment. There are so many opportunities out there for a person with common sense and drive and most importantly aspiration and wanting to live your dreams. It is something everyone should consider especially at the moment when good graduate jobs are few and far between.”
Students who are doing it for themselves Andrew is the force behind several online companies: “Currently, I run several different types of businesses and own a successful online services company which mainly provides business products such as marketing, websites, email services, hosting, graphic design and powers one of my expanding businesses, WebsiteInABox. “WebsiteInABox is unique as it is an over-the-counter all-inclusive physical website product that can be used directly by the end user without any technical or website know-how. “I chose to get into the online services industry as the costs are relatively low so with little knowledge I was able to successfully start at a young age. At first, to me it was a hobby giving me a bit of pocket money, but the more time I spent on it, the more opportunities I found.” Throughout his experiences, Andrew has also come into problems with online cons and cheats which delayed his progression: “I tried taking advantage of ‘too good to be true’ opportunities. Almost all of which cost me money and time and turned out to be scams.” Like James, Andrew recognises the potential risks that come with working individually. He says that time management and motivation must be key to success: “Running a small business, especially when you’re first starting, requires a huge amount of time and dedication. You must be able to manage yourself; there is no boss to shout at you for not turning up to work or for being lazy. “It is not for everyone, however if done properly, it can be extremely rewarding. You must be able to spot opportunities, to want to do and be better and most importantly not be scared of failure. “I’ve had about 50 different businesses over the past six years, from leaflet printing to importing online services. Some made a small amount of money or losses, but five have been very successful. I say just try something else, but never give up.”
Green Watch Environment correspondent Rachael Sharp explains why we should all be supporting our local wildlife
Birds at Blackpill
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S Swansea University students, most of us can take for granted the fantastic location we both live and study for nine months of the year. When the sun is shining hundreds of students flock to Swansea Beach, Mumbles Pier or Singleton Park, but did you know the wildlife on our doorstep is as equally exciting as the locations themselves? The Gower Peninsula was the first area in the UK to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty more than 50 years ago, and with its large variety of habitats, attracts an extensive range of animals including rare dune-dwelling insects, otters and birds. Unbeknownst to some, Blackpill beach, just before the Mumbles, is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its importance as a habitat for local and migratory bird species. The Ringed Plover, in particular, is a rare species that feeds on the rich supply of marine invertebrates that inhabit the muddy slopes of Blackpill. As such, it is illegal to walk a dog along a stretch of Swansea Bay to the Mumbles between May 1st and September 30th each year so as not to disturb/distress the birds. Those who do so can face a heavy fine. With such an important diversity of wildlife nearby it is crucial that students remain vigilant when it comes to the removal of litter, disposable BBQs etc. after a visit to the beach or park. If everyone ensures the cleanliness of the beach is maintained then, not only does it make the area more attractive to both live and work, but safeguards local wildlife from the effects of human impact, preserving the beautiful site for future generations. From a brief survey of several Swansea University students 75% were completely unaware of local wildlife and the Gower’s status as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Therefore, I suggest expressing your inner Attenborough and taking a second look at the life that surrounds you during your walk to campus or along the beach. You may be surprised at what you could find.
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NE student who was also seeking entrepreneurial opportunities from a young age was Swansea University student, Andrew Higley. At the age of 15, Andrew, from Crewe, Cheshire, took on a local paper round delivering 200 free papers for around £15 a week: “I thought that there must be an easier way to earn money. I started playing about with websites and eBay and went from there really.” Now as a third year Economics scholar, 21-year-old
Ringed Plover James Long
societies 26
travel 25
culture 23
games 22
gadgets 22
film 21
music 20
food 19
front row 18-19
fashion 16-17
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features 14-15
November 14, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
fashion
w h at ’ s h ot in fas h ion & bea u t y now. W it h L U C I N D A R E I D TOPSHOP: £110
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TOPSHOP: £98
THE FASHIONABLE MR TURNER In honour of the Arctic Monkeys latest tour, Lucinda Reid takes a look at Alex Turner’s personal style through the years... 2006-2007: Turner made skinny jeans, polo shirts and scruffy hair the staple look for teens everywhere. An unlikely style icon is born!
how to look hot when it’s not TOPSHOP: £98
Catrin Morgan tells us how to wrap up this season.
With Swansea having officially gained the accolade of ‘Wettest City in Britain’, a winter coat is much more than a fashion item. But with so many to choose from which one is right for you?
2008: Turner smartens up his look as his fame rises, opting for suits with skinny ties, or a for a more day time look wears a parka with his staple jeans.
2009-2011: For a few years fans couldnt see Turner’s face for the long shaggy hair he grew! It became his new signature as he kept his clothes simple. Baggy t-shirts and leather jackets- no fuss rock style.
5.The obnoxiously bright coat. Bold colours have been flooding the High Street for the past two seasons. However, be careful not to 1.The ‘Barbour’ jacket. No longer just drown yourself in the one for sheep herders and farmers, this block of colour- it’s considered Warehouse: £80 jacket is getting its fashion moment, a fashion faux pas to match your hair, coat and shoes. not just for us girls but boys too. Versatile and comfortable, this is a plain jacket that’ll match anything. 6. The nipped in waist and belt. Perfect for lucky ladies with an hour glass figure or for 2.The Parka. Once again an androgynous coat which manages to those of you seeking a super look effortlessly cool while covering feminine coat. Elegance in Cath Kidston: £22 up the pyjamas you may be wearing seconds. underneath to your 9 o’clock lecture. 7. The Trench. Perfect if you’re Also useful for channelling Noel looking for a coat that’ll keep Gallagher. you dry AND classy. late 2011: With a 3. The Fur Coat. Note that fake styled quiff, leather 8. The Del-Boy- A bizarre jacket and aviators, is best, unless you enjoy being newcomer, the’ Del Boy’ is long Turner channels John hounded by PETA protestors. In and has fur trimming nailing addition to being bang on trend, Travolta in Grease with more style than this coat could earn you maximum two trends in one. This coat is anyone could have better left to the taller ladies fashion points by buying it in a predicted. A look otherwise you risk being longer length. If you’re not daring which undoubtedly enough to wear a full on fur coat, try mistaken for a yeti. Lovely ASOS: £90 will be copied. jubbly. a plain coat with a fur trim. 4.The old-school raincoat. This coat isn’t the best if you’re seeking warmth but to re-live your festival fashion it’s a yes. Buy it in the style of a poncho for the ultimate statement
topstyleblogs.com Hannah Botting
Blogger: English student Becca started her fashion-train blog in December 2008. About: The focus is affordable fashion. All her posts are wearable styles that are available on the high street. From leopard leggings to rock T’s, Becca offers solutions for those key pieces that you aren’t sure how to wear. There are some annoying product promotions, but also some gems of ideas.
on which blogs we all should be reading.
Audience: Becca is still relatively small with 300 subscribers, although she does look after her visitors with plenty of voucher codes thanks to her sponsors. Inspirational? It’s not for the hard core fashion lovers but it is perfect for lovers of the high street! Rating 3/5 stars. http://www.fashion-train.blogspot.com/
societies 26
travel 25
culture 23
games 22
gadgets 22
film 21
music 20
food 19
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Fashion Baggage
Show me your
In this new feature, Jessica Caruana delves into your hand bags to discover what we carry around on a daily basis! This week she interviews Toni-Marie Burke, a 3rd year English Literature student: Q Where is your bag from? Dorothy Perkins Q How long ago did you purchase it? Last Christmas, it was a present from my Nan. Q What item in your bag can’t you live without? My phone Q Do you prefer clutch, baguette handbag or tote bag? Tote bag because I like to take everything out with me. I like to be prepared. Q Do you carry anything unusual in your bag? Perfume and cookies! Q How many handbags do you own? Five, but only three are used regularly.
wardrobe
This week Alice Simpkin speaks to the stylish Sancha Worthington, a second year Politics and Economics student. They chat about TOWIE, gold bling and shock horror… Crocs?! Describe your style Exotic hoochy mama! Where do you get you inspiration from? Celebrities, movies, magazines and friends. Who are your style icons? Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Lauren Conrad and Joey Essex! [About Joey] I just love the tight jeans and the Uggs and the short shorts! And his new thing where he turns his collar in! What is your favourite wardrobe item? [Holding up a bejewelled belly dancing bra] I don’t know what to call it! [Sancha’s house mate calls out “It’s a prostitute shirt!”] [laughing]I got it from a charity shop to wear at Bestival this year. It went down a treat! What is your item of shame? [Holding up some superman slippers]These are my guilty pleasure! [During the photoshoot it emerged they were stolen from a male friend!] What is the one accessory you always turn to? Gold jewellery because I can wear it with anything. In particular I have
fashion 16-17
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November 14, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
this name necklace and my name is really weird so… Where are your favourite places to shop? Urban Outfitters, sometimes American Apparel. Topshop, standard, and some vintage shops. I’ve just discovered Hobos. I like the gentleman’s cardigan section. [Find them at 214 Oxford street, Swansea. They offer a 10% student discount!] What is your one key fashion tip? Are you ready?... If in doubt, rock your Crocs! [The Waterfront Fashion Section wishes to inform readers that they do not condone the wearing or use in any way of Crocs or any Croc-like footwear. Anyone who does so, does it is at their own personal risk!] Last issue my last interviewee, Wes Adeyemi, asked how long does it take you to get ready for uni? Depending on how hung over I am, sometimes it takes me a little bit longer but it doesn’t actually take me that long to get ready for uni. It’s usually about 20mins. I wish it was that short for a night out… but it’s not. Usually I wake up with not enough time to get to my lectures so it’s literally [I wear] what’s on top! I roll out of bed and just see what attaches itself! What would you like to ask the next fashionista? Thong or French Knickers?!
The contents of Toni’s bag included; Fantasy by Britney Spears perfume, glasses, Blackberry, lip balm, The Haunting of Hill House, umbrella.
Jessica O’Donnell hunts for the best beauty buys that will keep you looking radiant this winter.
Now the weather is changing , your skin care routine and beauty products should follow suit. The harsher conditions have a damaging effect upon skin, just as the sun does. Moisture is vital to keep your body healthy as the weather can leave skin dehydrated and tender. The body shop vitamin E, cleanse tone and moisturise package is amazing as a base under your makeup and perfect for sensitive or dry skin. I swear by this product. Vitamin E is fantastic for restoring your skin’s natural glow and sinks straight into your skin avoiding that greasy feeling. Use in the morning before makeup application and then again before bedtime and within a week you’ll notice a considerable difference.
be weather proof with makeup Winter also means a new foundation colour is probably necessary too, as skin tone changes with the season; you’ll probably need to go down a shade for it to be a perfect match. Ask beauty consultants for expert advice. Clarins liquid Everlasting Foundation with SPF15 is fantastic for providing long lasting full coverage and covers redness and uneven skin tone. It’s important your foundation lasts all day without clogging pores. Also check out Garnier’s BB cream, it’s a tinted moisturiser that provides a light coverage and supplies skin with minerals.
Waterproof mascara is essential for rainy Swansea, Rimmell’s 100% Waterproof Mascara is reasonably priced and provides both volume and curl for lashes, and it doesn’t take too much scrubbing to remove either, it will outstand showers but come straight off with some baby oil.
Burt’s BeesBeeswax, is incredible! Although it’s not that cheap, a small pot will last for ages, they’ve even brought out different versions including slightly coloured and a shimmer version for those of us who want a glamorous edge to lip care.
NUMBER
front row
10 things worth going out for - By T yler James
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Rusko (In association with SINK) Sin City, Nov 20th, 10pm £7 adv
Where to start? Let’s try the beginning, Rusko made his production debut in 2006 on Dub Police with the song SNES Dub. By 2007 he released Babylon, Vol. 1 with Sub Soldiers. Steering away from the darker side of Dubstep, Rusko brought an upbeat sound to the scene that appealed to many outside the community. Rusko’s extremely successful hit Cockney Thug has appeared on various DJ sets and mixes including Pete Tong, Switch, M.I.A. and Santigold. His sound appealed to many people outside of the Dubstep world as his productions became more diverse in formula, sound and energy. Having collaborations with many artists including Diplo, Kid Sister, Pete Tong, Caspa it is a clear sell out like previous visits. Check SINK on the 19th for an exclusive offer!
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Waterfront Winterland 2011
National Waterfront Museum from Friday 18 November. 12pm
The grounds of the National Waterfront Museum will be transformed once again into a children’s paradise, with the return of Waterfront Winterland. The Giant Wheel is the star of the show, whilst you can also enjoy the family funfair and Christmas delicacies. The Admiral Rink returns along with Rocky’s Children’s Rink, book your ice skating tickets now. Plus, don’t forget to visit Father Christmas at Santa’s Grotto!
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Christmas Parade and Lights Switch On Dylan Thomas Centre, Sunday 20
November 2011 @ 5pm
Christmas will officially start on Sunday 20 November as Santa comes to Swansea for the Christmas Parade and Lights Switch On. Join Santa and the many floats and entertainment and follow them as they advance through the streets of Swansea, illuminating the city as they go. The parade will begin at the Dylan Thomas Centre in Somerset Place, before continuing onto Wind St, up onto College St, along the Kingsway, St Helen’s Road before finishing outside the Guildhall.
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Lee Evans – Roadrunner
15th-22nd November 2011 @ Motorpoint
Arena Cardiff £34
Wired And Wonderful was huge… XL was big… Big was even bigger… now the legendary Lee Evans embarks on his most ambitious tour to date. Roadrunner is Lee’s amazing new show with 50 nights in the biggest arenas in the country. Lee will be playing to more fans than ever on this recordbreaking tour of the UK and Ireland.
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Lee Nelson Live
Thursday 24th November Grand theatre @ 8pm £22.50
Straight from Lee Nelson’s well good show on BBC3 it’s the man himself! Doing a new Live tour. This new to the scene comedian already has a large following “As comic inventions go south London council estate geezer Lee Nelson is up with the best.” Simon Horsford, The Daily Telegraph
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Art Classes
Glynn Vivian Art Gallery
Saturdays @ 1.30pm – 4pm - Free
The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery offers a range of free art workshops for adults. You will learn different skills and cover a range of techniques, whilst taking inspiration from the collection on display. If there is a particular skill you are interested in learning, this can also be discussed in the class.
Saturday Afternoon Adult Classes with Tom Goddard 1.30pm – 4pm
Classes are open to anyone aged 16 and over. Ever wanted to try an art class? Learn new skills and develop your own unique art projects in this creative workshop series for all abilities. Try painting, drawing, model making or printing and produce a truly original piece of artwork.
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The Blanks Live (A.K.A Ted’s band from “Scrubs”)
Sin City - Wed 23 Nov @ 7:30 - £10
This is a show not to be missed! The Blanks are renowned for blowing the roof off every venue they play. Truly a laugh minute this Barbershop Quartet never ever fails to disappoint! This event will sell out, get your tickets to avoid disappointment!
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Performance Arts - The Two Dylans Taliesin Arts Centre Sat 19 November @ 7.30pm £8
Michael Gray, a world authority on Bob Dylan, and a group of celebrated authors and commentators on the works of the the two poets, illustrate and discuss these legendary icons of the twentieth century. Taliesin pays tribute to Bob Dylan in the year of his 70th birthday by comparing him with his Swansea namesake Dylan Thomas.
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10pm £3
Micall Parknsun and Dubbledge @ SINK
Sin City, Saturday November 19, 10pm, £3 with a student card
Micall Parknsun...Isn’t he that ex-talk show host, and has now turned to a life of Hip-hop? Not quite, this character is a little different. ‘Real’ is a word that is bandied around so much in hip hop these days that usually it doesn’t seem to retain any meaning, but if there’s even the slightest danger that it does, this is a man who summons it. Parky has come a long way since he burst onto the scene with his widely acclaimed debut album, The Working Class Dad, in 2005. With immediate airtime from XFM, Kiss and Zane Lowe, his reputation as a lyricist of the highest order was already having the footings set, and was further cemented by his stage-crippling anthem Dunya (My World), the lead single on Underworld Epics Vol. 1, produced by Jehst and released in 2006. Dubbledge has appeared on releases by fellow UK hip hop artists such as Micall Parknsun, Braintax, and Jehst, as well as performances at Glastonbury and launch parties for Foreign Beggars and Jehst. Both under the former hugely praised “Low Life Records”. Clearly a winning combo! Also if you come to this event, you’ll get your name on the list for a discounted Rusko Ticket for the following night! BOOM! £3 you say?
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food
Mystro @ SINK
Sin City Saturday 26 November
Mystro has built a reputation as one of UK hiphop’s brightest vocal talents, releasing a string of critically acclaimed solo singles and EPs, as well as lending his skills to releases by a who’s who of British heavy weights, including Blak Twang, Rodney P and Ty. This impressive track record has led to Mystro recording and performing with a slew of legendary international artists, from Junior Reid and Dawn Penn through to Wu-Tang Clan and KRS-One. He’s also toured extensively from Europe to Australasia, earning a reputation for his razor-sharp wit and refreshing originality both on-stage and in the studio. The skills don’t stop there, though. Mystro is also an in demand Master of Ceremonies, hosting gigs from Dublin to Dubai and earning the title of ‘Best Host’ award at the UK Hip Hop Awards for two years running. Gaining new notoriety with Spinetv.net – Mystro currently hosts a monthly online series dubbed ‘Mystro Investigates…’ where he delves into popular UK pastimes. Add gigs for major brands like Nike, Adidas and MTV, charity work and a lead role and writing credits for the play ‘Da Boyz into the mix, and it becomes clear that this Natural Born Spitta is a man of many talents.
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Goodbye kebabs, hello fat-free yogurt! T
ODAY, we all went to town and brought some bathroom scales for the house; exciting, I know! After going to Slimming World and exercising lots over the summer, I managed to lose two and a half stone. And I am determined to not fall back into a bad routine – like so many students do and put lots of weight back on, writes Jazz Dicker. It is so easy to let yourself go at University. Takeaways are really tasty and take a minimal amount of effort and the amount of calories in alcohol is unbelievable. And I, admittedly, really struggled with my weight in my first year because of this. Did you know that two pints of cider has the same amount of calories as a piece of pizza, two onion bhajis and two Jaffa cakes all added together! With Slimming World costing £5 a week and being on Wednesday evening, it is not very ‘student friendly’. SO, with my housemates Sian and Shane keen to jump on board and lose weight as well, we have decided to have our own ‘weekly weigh-ins’ and have a weight loss chart on the wall in the lounge. And hopefully, with a mixture of motivation, healthy eating and exercise, we will be able to lose weight and become healthier, more confident and skinnier people; ultimately making us all much happier. The diet we are going to follow is similar to that of Slimming World; basically fat free and no snacking. For example, on an average day I would have fruit and fat free yoghurt for breakfast, low fat cheese and beans Jacket potatoes for lunch and lean meat, homemade chips and vegetables for tea. We all intend to cook together, make healthy meals and make joint trips to the gym. I genuinely believe that losing weight can be simple, you just need to be organised about what you’re going to eat and make exercise fun. According to a recent survey, eight out of 10 men and almost seven in 10 women will be overweight or obese by 2020 – and I know that I don’t want to want to be a part of those figures!
Jazz Dicker gets ready for the weigh-in with her flatmates
Go to work on a full stomach Ann Williams, a second year student of Early Childhood Studies, has some practical nutrition advice to help make sure that you are feeling great and eating well. BREAKFAST is the most important meal of the day! How many times do you hear that? Do I sound like your mother?! A healthy breakfast will help get your body functioning on top form again after a night of rest, it will also rehydrate you and get your brain working as well as your body. So what are your options? Carbohydrate-based breakfast: Sugary cereals, White bread etc. Causes an immediate surge in blood sugar and a substantial release of insulin. This gives instant, but very short lasting energy. The insulin removes most of the sugar from
our blood and turns excess sugar into fat. Skipping breakfast: Blood sugar drops below normal level, leading to cravings and a drop in energy - this often leads to bad snack choices! Balanced breakfast: Combination of porridge, muesli, eggs, fruit etc. A mixture of protein, fats and complex carbohydrates will give your body an energy boost, a reserve of energy (as it won’t be burnt up like the sugary option) and will keep you full for longer - a perfect combination! It’s also a great chance to get one of your five-a-day! Don’t forget to have around 500ml of water to re-hydrate your body. If you would like a free consultation or advice on weight management, sports nutrition, or general health and wellbeing (including natural energy boosting ideas) then contact Ann for information at info@dietsquad. co.uk.
REVIEW Patti Raj, Patti Pavilion, Mumbles Road, Swansea, SA1 4PQ The Patti Raj restaurant is next to St Helen’s rugby ground and boasts great sea views, writes Sophie Pritchard. The pavilion itself is packed with history, as it was once located in Craig Y Nos castle in the Swansea Valley, the home of the Victorian opera singer Adelina Patti. It has recently been renovated into a modern Indian restaurant, with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes. Brave curry fanatics will love the extra hot Zaleh-Zuleh, which is cooked with one of the spiciest bell peppers, the Naga pepper. On a Sunday afternoon the restaurant offers a selfservice buffet, which is a great way to sample a variety of dishes. I opted for a traditional Chicken Tikka Masala with pilau rice and it was delicious. Meals are priced at around £10 a head (for a main dish and side).
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Going for the record - In ST yle
“Third Time’s A Charm” - The Blanks L
IKE ‘Ted’s Band’ from the classic-hit comedy show ‘Scrubs’? Love this! On 23 November, the exceptional Barbershop Quartet ‘The Blanks’ (‘Ted’s Band’) will be returning for their third time in a year. They will perform an encore at Swansea’s epic rock club Sin City as part of their ongoing university tour around Britain. Travelling all the way from Los Angeles, The Blanks label themselves as having a humorous yet talented angle on ‘A cappella’ music and are bound to generate a substantial crowd of enthusiastic students in Swansea. The Blanks will churn out a mixtureofmusicalentertainment
By Alex Gibbs from sketches to eccentric choreography to classic covers. Having received an overwhelming number of impressive reviews, The Blanks should bring a new edge to Sin City’smusicscenedemonstrating why they were signed by ‘Parody records’ and promoted by the ever-loved ‘Scrubs’. Expect to hear such beloved classics taken from Scrubs as ‘Charles in Charge’, ‘Superman’ and‘Hey Ya’. This band should not be missed, especially if you’re a fan of Ted’s antics in the TV show. Check out the band’s enchanting style that made Boing Fwip a catchphrase at http://www.theblankswebsite.
The Blanks will be playing at Sin City on November 23. You can buy tickets from the Swansea Student Events Box Office.
Something Old
Something New
By Esther Wright
Maroon 5’s new studio album is unmistakeably them, and then some. If ‘Moves Like Jagger’ didn’t immediately make you want to jump up and dance around,ormakeyouwhistlealongwiththeopening in your head for days, there’s plenty more future hits tolistenoutfor. Catchybeatsandfarmoreelectronic sounds accompany Adam Levine’s famed vocals on ‘HandsAllOver’,inordertoproducegemslike‘Stutter’, theprevioussingle‘Misery’,andtofinishoffthealbum, a beautiful sing-along acoustic rendition of ‘Crazy LittleThingCalledLove’.Fanswillnotbedisappointed with this new impressive effort.
It’s hard to imagine that anyone listening to music aroundthetimeofthisalbum’sreleasedidn’thearabout singles ‘She Will Be Loved’ or ‘Sunday Morning’. After a slow rise to popularity and a re-release in 2003, the albumcreatedamassivelyunexpectedsuccess,inboth America and on an international scale.The songs this albumboasts(notone,butfivebillboardchartedsingles) could still be played today and get almost universal recognition. On the whole, a hugely listenable album, with album tracks like ‘Shiver’ being worth as much recognition as the singles.
Do you think a band or genre should be featured? E-mail us at waterfrontmusic@swansea-union.co.uk
albums
singles
Artic Monkeys
Florence & The Machine
Kids In Glass Houses
Cher Lloyd
The Arctic Monkeys’ newest offering is interesting but lacks the grit that many fans have been requesting writes Callum Walters. The album has a distinct tone reminiscent of shoe-gaze indie but still retains the trademark guitar from Cook. This album’s fresh approach will deter some fans, especially if they were expecting guitar driven rock. Whilst it is impressive musically it fails to translate this into excitement. The best tracks include ‘All My Own Stunts’ featuring Queens of The Stone Age’s Josh Homme and ‘Reckless Serenade’ which undeniably has a Nirvana feel. A decent album, but stay clear if you’re more of casual listener.
It is no coincidence that ‘Ceremonials’ has been released on Halloween, simply because Florence tends to adopt an ‘other-wordly’ essence about her, writes Rich Willetts. She sings about ghouls on the uplifting ‘Shake it out’; a near anthem to self-expression which surely will be a hit. Unlike debut album ‘Lungs’, ‘Ceremonials’ is of greater scope and scale, inviting you to bask in its musical enormity almost with the ease of folk psychedelia. Take the rewarding first single ‘What the Water Gave Me’; it wouldn’t sound amiss in a festival 40 years ago. Despite being long in places, no other 2011 pop records have been crafted with such imagination and intellect.
From their ‘In Gold Blood’ album, KIGH churn out a mature, commercialised record that acts like a potential rock anthem with classic drum and guitar accompaniments and background chanting writes Alex Gibbs. Frontman Aled Phillips demonstrates his raw vocal abilities, but fans aren’t kept on their toes. The track abandons KIGH typical range in tempo, which used to leave fans braced for a mesmerising instrumental interlude followed by Phillips’ standard belt out. Not only changing how they harmonise collectively, the band sport an impoverished fashion choice, forcing fans to take their music seriously.
Love her or loathe her, Cher Lloyd is back with a heavily manufactured slice of girly-pop, showing a welcomingly alternative to the hyper, frenzied track ‘Swagger Jagger’ which ‘graced’ our ears earlier this year, writes Cameron Stanton. Featuring Mike Posner, ‘With Ur Love’ opens with a frankly ridiculous yet catchy backing track, but thankfully Lloyd drops the brattish, sing-talk rapping, to show the voice that earned her an X-Factor place. Lloyd really tries to quieten her ‘haterz’, however in all honesty the song does little more than follow the manufactured drivel that has infected the music industry over past years; not that it’s going to stop her!
Suck It And See
Ceremonials
Not In This World
With Ur Love
A Look At Spielberg
PREVIEWS 1
Callum Walters offers a brief retrospective on the impact of director Steven Spielberg on cinema in a career that has spanned every genre
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The Twilight Saga: Breaking
Dawn - Part 1 - Telling the first
part of the final tale, this film will undoubtably be hugly successful and will divide critics. Breaking Dawn will tell the story of Belle and Edward tying the knot and the consequences of the union.
2 Justice- Starring Nicolas Cage and Guy
S
TEVEN Spielberg is an undisputed icon of Hollywood cinema who boasts an astonishing 31 Oscar wins for his movies. He is a true inspiration to anyone who wishes to sit in a director’s chair. Making his feature directorial debut in 1971, Spielberg has a career that has seen him work through an aweinspiring five decades. From his first blockbuster success in the terrifying Jaws in 1975 right through to his most recent offering, The Adventures of Tintin, movie goers have enjoyed Spielberg’s movies in great numbers for a reason; they always guarantee a great story and they are always action-packed, keeping viewers enthralled and excited One of Spielberg’s biggest movies is the ground-breaking Jurassic Park (1993), which opened many people’s eyes to the power of CGI to captivate audiences. Others are the heart-wrenching tale of E.T: The Extra Terrestrial in 1982, which is one of the most well-known and loved family films ever, and Saving Private Ryan, which is seen as one the most accurate portrayals of the D-Day landings ever committed to film. Just one of these three movie juggernauts would be enough in any director’s back catalogue but Spielberg has so many more amazing pictures under his belt. The amazing Indiana Jones adventure epics are some of the most fun movies ever shown on screen - with a brilliant turn by Harrison Ford (pictured below). Schindler’s List is one of the most powerful movies ever produced,
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Pearce, this film will tell the tale of a man enlisting the help of vigilantes after his wife is assulted, however, he doesn’t take into account that the vigilantes may want a favour in return.
reviews Contagion telling the tale of how Oskar Schindler tried to save Jews from the concentration camps. The sheer contrast of these two movies shows off the amazing talent of this native of Cincinnati, proving that he can deliver the same amount of excellence in any type of film a writer can conceive. There is no doubt that The Adventures of Tintin, which is in cinemas now, shares the same magic Spielberg touch that we have come to know and love. Spielberg is a key player in the ‘blockbuster’ film culture that we have today. Before Jaws, the concept of marketing a film and releasing at the summer time to attract more box office was unheard of. When he followed up with the classic Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Spielberg was possibly the first ‘bankable’ director. There is no argument to the fact that Spielberg is a legend of movie directing, he brings something new to each of his pictures and he is well respected by all those within the business as well as those of us
outside.
As high-flying Beth Emhoff (Gwyneth Paltrow) returns from a business trip to Hong Kong, she contracts a flu-like illness, leading to the untimely death of both herself and her son. An identical case is then reported from Chicago, where Emhoff is found to have met with an old flame. The indirect spread of the virus has now begun. Although recycling the typical Hollywood ‘end-of-the-world disaster movie’ scenario, Steven Soderbergh directs a movie with some brains and a disconcerting sense of realism. The all-star ensemble cast, including the likes of Kate Winslet, Matt Damon and Jude Law, breathe some life into the slightly confusing narrative and delivers some stellar performances (if you exclude Law’s shocking attempt at an Australian accent). However, the trailer promises an edge-of-your-seat thriller, and what’s presented, although full of potential, is somewhat slow and limited in its delivery. That being said, it will leave you twitching at every cough for days afterwards. By Rachael Sharp
The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn The film begins with Tintin (Jamie Bell) purchasing a sailboat model in a market, only to be kidnapped for it’ secrets and thrown on a boat headed for Morocco. Along with his canine friend Snowy he teams up with the boat’s captain Haddock, and the adventure begins. The film is visually stunning, the action scenes are exhilarating and in an effort to capture the high energy of the chase, Spielberg has taken advantage of the privileges that animation has to offer and has obviously enjoyed his work here, which translates onto the screen. It is fair to say that Tintin is beautifully put together, and the film is worth watching in order to savour the vibrancy of the animation. However, it does lack the emotional depth of previous Spielberg masterpieces such as ET. A glaring omission in Tintin is that female characters are almost ignored throughout the entire film except for a stereotype of an opera singer, so there are no pistol-wielding heroines for your young girls to relate to, which may alienate much of the audience. Nevertheless Spielberg has effectively worked his usual movie magic with this latest foray, after the disappointing Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, it’s safe to say Steven Spielberg has his mojo back. By Shelley-Marie Phillips
Paranormal Activity 3 After the financial success of the previous two incarnations of this boring franchise, it makes perfect sense that a third be made for release over Halloween. Telling the story of the sisters from the first two films when they are children, they have apparently forgotten the events of this film when it comes to the first and second installments. Conveniently, the father figure of the film shoots wedding videos, therefore has access to unlimited amounts of cameras and video tapes to film footage of the strange events that occur in the house. On the whole, if you’ve seen the first two films, you know exactly what to expect. This is the cinematic equivalent of being sat in a dark room and somebody shouting ‘boo’. Whilst some may say that that is exactly what they want and expect from this film, the result is simply boring. The film plays out as a long episode of Most Haunted without Yvette Fielding screaming and Derek Acorah acting up. If it’s simply jumps you’re looking for, this may be the film for you. By Andy Williams
gadgets
Every thing about student gadgets.
Tablets: Are They A Student’s Best Friend? W ITH the large number of new tablets hitting the market all the time, it can be confusing what each can do and whether they are worth the huge cost. With sales of tablets increasing year on year is it worth it to take the plunge to buy one, or be even more adventurous and replace your laptop with one? The obvious product people think of is the iPad. Released in May last year, and followed by the iPad 2 just under a year later, it has changed technology and gadgets since. However there are many other choices, Android tablets like the hugely popular Samsung Galaxy Tab and with rumours that Windows 8 Tablets are coming in the next few years. There is large variety of options open for the discerning student.
But what really makes a tablet worth it and not just a large smartphone? Well from a student’s point of view it allows you to carry around a device with power and functionality of a laptop, the portability of a small notebook and the apps of a smartphone. With full office suites available on the iPad and Android devices it’s also possible to carry out all of your University work on the move. In conclusion, is it worth to splash out and get a Tablet? Well, if you need a new laptop soon, take a look; you could save yourself a few hundred pounds or so. If not, it would probably be best to wait until they inevitably fall in price.
By Richard Cowie
spotlight Every week, we put a product, gadget or service in the spotlight. This week, we’re looking at the upcoming Nokia Lumia 800 This new gadget marks a major return to the smartphone market for the Finnish telecoms giant. After falling behind the likes of Apple, HTC and Samsung, Nokia have decided to team up with Microsoft to make Nokia’s first phone that runs the Windows Phone 7.5 ‘Mango’ operating system. The phone has an exceptionally fast processor (1.4Ghz) and a super-high resolution screen. The Lumia 800 has received favourable reviews but it remains to be seen if it can really take on the fight in the smartphone war this Christmas.
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music Virgin Teams Up With Spotify Internet provider Virgin Media has announced a partnership with popular music streaming service Spotify. The deal means that students, that are signing a new contract for a 30Mbs+ internet connection, will be given six months free access to Spotify’s premium service. Users can enjoy using a library of around fifteen million songs without adverts.
privacy Fears For Online Safety A survey carried out by YouGov for the Information Commissioner’s Office, showed that 42% of students surveyed were worried that the details they shared on Facebook and other social networking sites could affect future employment. The results also coincide with a survey carried out by Which? that showed 48% of those polled couldn’t keep up with constant flow of privacy changes on the social networking site.
Do you want to put a gadget or game in the spotlight? Email waterfrontgadgets@swansea-union.co.uk
games
PREVIEW SPECIAL The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Assassin’s Creed: Revelations Ezio will travel across Istanbul to Masyaf, the Assassin stronghold where the first in the series began, and where he discovers that Altaïr has hidden a key artefact deep within the fortress. Meanwhile, in the present day, Desmond Miles is in a comatose state in the animus, where he has found a place called the Black Room. He must find a key memory that will link him with Altaïr and Ezio to piece back his splintered subconscious. Graphics will have improved and gameplay will be faster, sleeker and with huge improvements to multiplayer. Roisin O’Connor
THE Elder Scrolls series returns for its fifth installment - and this time, there will be no horse armour! Skyrim features many, many dragons. One dragon especially, namely the nordic dragon king Alduin, is threatening to invoke all sorts of chaos and it is your choice as the last Dragonborn whether to take up this quest or postpone it in favour of other things to do. The non-linear design of the environment returns with no restrictions other than death for those who wish to explore. The developers, Bethesda Game Studios, are also hiring more voice actors (over 70) to fulfil the many roles of non-player characters in the name. You’ll find that the race you choose at the start of the game will also have a greater impact on your interactions with these people. This chapter of Elder Scrolls is set 200 years after Morrowind, and in that
time the king of Skyrim has been assassinated, civil war has broken out and the Blades practically cease to exist. There are also rumours of yet more vampire and werewolf sightings... Matthew Edwards
Call of Duty: MW3 Infinity Ward takes over the developing reins once again and is sure to provide a suitably impressive follow up to the widely acclaimed ‘Modern Warfare 2’. Campaign mode is back and the story arc will continue from ‘MW2’, including action in countries such as the U.S.A, Germany, France, England, Dubai, and Moscow. Expect another terrific multiplayer experience, including significant changes to the ‘Killstreak’ system, meaning that bonuses can now be achieved through more tactical methods to previous titles. One of the most anticipated games of the year is finally here. Oli Jones
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Affordable (and free!) Cultural Things To Do WE all had different reasons for choosing Swansea as the location for the time of our lives, writes Olga Kramer. Yet, once settled, it is almost natural to forget what you were excited about when you first moved here. Without much money in your pocket the winter blues may dominate but there are various ways for Swansea University students to experience cultural challenges without spending a fortune. Swansea University students who’ve got rhythm have the opportunity to listen to live music as well as perform themselves. Various pubs around Swansea including the Uplands Tavern on Uplands Crescent and The Brunswick on Duke Street have regular live music nights. To receive feedback for your own musical talents, you can ask to perform at open-mic nights, for example at The Bay View on Oystermouth Road and
the Uplands Tavern. If you enjoy affordable live punk or folk music, you should pay Mozarts on Walter Road a visit. Students who are into literature can both relax and be productive by attending a night called Crunch which takes place in Mozarts every second and third Thursday of the month. Often guest authors from all over attend to read their work. If you write yourself you can read your poem or prose and receive feedback. Join the Facebook group ‘The Crunch’. A must for literature fans in Swansea is a visit to the Dylan Thomas Centre on Somerset Place. There you can learn about the famous Welsh writer and poet’s life and work and attend regular events including readings by various authors. The city’s museums are filled with treasures about the history of Swansea. Swansea Museum, on
National Waterfront Museum Victoria Road, offers an interesting collection visualizing the history of the city and is also the oldest museum in Wales. Meanwhile, the last 300 years of industry and advances in technology are displayed
in the National Waterfront Museum, on Oystermouth Road. At both museums admission is free of charge. • Check out Arts Resource Swansea for more ideas: http://www.artawe.
Frank Vickery’s Biting The Bullet MOMENT after moment, Frank Vickery’s latest play at Swansea Grand Theatre delivered laugh after laugh. Biting The Bullet is a single setting, five-character comedy about a woman– Beryl– overcoming a painful divorce after 32 years of marriage. With the help of her friend, Dawn, who is hilariously played by Marilyn Hodge; her daughter Angie and a
handsome handyman, Scott– Beryl realises and rethinks her attitude to life. Staging a two-hour, intimate character production comes with a risk. However, Vickery’s unique sense of setting, comedy and humanity proved a successful combination. Careful in its timing and raw in its dialogue, scenes flowed and
Glynn Vivian Gallery Closes SWANSEA’S Glynn Vivian Art Gallery has closed for two years. The 100 year old building is undergoing a £6m renovation to ‘bring it into the 21st century’. When it reopens in 2014, it will have additional gallery spaces, a resource centre, office and workshop spaces, a café, shop and disabled access, writes Hazel Monaghan. In the meantime, around 8,000 pieces are being packed up and either stored or displayed at the National Museum in Cardiff (if you can’t wait two years, you can enjoy some prime Impressionism in the capital with Renoir and Monet). The Glynn Vivian has a lively learning programme to pass the time; adult, children and special needs workshops, artist talks, film and live music. Its permanent collection includes many 20th century Welsh artists, and of course the original bequest from Richard Glynn Vivian, whose donated collection of artworks conceived the gallery. The contemporary works are very varied; past exhibitions have included Philippa Lawrence, David Nash, Terry Setch, local Ceri
characters matured on stage. The audience was highly positive towards this formula, with frequently outbursts of laughter, applause and commentary. Overall, Biting the Bullet was a hugely enjoyable show. Frank Vickery understands audiences and knows how to build a relationship with them. By Michael Samuel
WHATS ON Discovery
21st - 25th November Singleton Campus, Swansea Univeristy 01792 295 743 discovery@swansea.ac.uk Discovery is a student-led volunteering organisation within Swansea University. They are hosting a “Discovery Week” with activities in the foyer of Fulton House (opposite Niche). Besides voluntary work, Discovery also arrange beach cleans, karaoke and tea parties. The office is located at the side of Fulton House
Richards and even (less contemporary) da Vinci. The Glynn Vivian is a member of Plus Tate, a partnership of 18 significant galleries around Great Britain, who work together to exchange programme ideas and skills, making quality visual arts more accessible in more places. Look out for the opening of the bigger, stronger Glynn Vivian Art Gallery in 2014.
Sultanate of Oman 41st National Day 18th November - 10:30am to 4pm Fulton House, Swansea Univeristy 571285@swansea.ac.uk Oman will be celebrating its national day with some festivities to be held on campus. The day will include traditional Omani dances, regional food and coffee and a cultural video about the area in the foyer area of Fulton House.
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November 14 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
Couch surfing in Bulgaria When Luke James took a trip to Bulgaria to watch the footy, he went in search of some like-minded locals – with interesting results
I
approached Sofia’s monolithic Palace of Culture on a wet, anonymous Sunday with both apprehension and excitement. Surveying the concrete expanse for a man in a red coat named Boris, I walked ever closer to the agreed meeting point. It might sound like the opening of a cold war thriller, but these were my first tentative steps in the brave new world of couch surfing. I was in Bulgaria with a few hundred other compatriots to watch the Welsh football team take on Bulgaria in a winner-takes-nothing match. Football aside, the trip gave me the chance to do something I had been longing to try - meeting a random person off the internet in a foreign land. I logged into CouchSurfing.org and, like a desperate travel-dater, set about messaging my proposal of a whirlwind friendship and a pint to normal-looking twenty somethings. Initially I was selective, altering the search criteria to seek out vegetarian students who liked football. Whilst my ability to smash through cultural differences and force conversation makes Louis Theroux seem shy, I wanted to avoid awkwardness if possible. But after a few knock backs - Petar was going to University in Kent and Kiril was washing his hair - I was soon unashamedly putting myself about Sofia’s online community of couch surfers. Boris, a 20-year-old student, came to the rescue and offered me the chance to join him and a friend on a trip to see some local graffiti artists. An offer I literally couldn’t refuse if I was going to lose my couch surfing virginity in Sofia. We made each other’s acquaintance and wandered over to find that the much anticipated graffiti project wasn’t worth standing in the rain for. Clearly panicked, Boris and friend had no choice but to set in motion plan B, an emergency tour of the city. I had been thrilled at the prospect of intruding on local people doing local things so this was a set back.
Luke James (right) checks out Sofia with a little help from Boris Fortunately I had a few travel tricks of my own - if you unending enquiries into Bulgarian politics but it only want to find real life on your travels, you go to a sports spurred me on. Boris’ friend had bailed. match or a university and Boris and friend were both In Bulgaria, Boris told me, many young people students. identify with the centre-right whilst the older And so we made for Studentskigrad (this is genuinely generations’ socialist habits are dying hard. What a what the student area of Sofia is called). Boris, friend contrast. and I compared student life while wandering the Before disappearing back to the suburbs, Boris halls of typically communist buildings and stopped pestered some locals to take a photograph to to eat some local vegetarian delicacies. document our fleeting friendship and sent me in the On our way back to the city centre Boris took me direction of a museum. to the parliament building, possibly to placate my The dullest museum I have ever visited.
How to support your travels by working abroad WORKING abroad can sound like a daunting prospect, but for anyone who has thought about travelling long term, it can be an essential way to support your travels. Luckily there are plenty of options to consider, writes Matthew Daniel Griffiths. Volunteering In recent years volunteering abroad has really taken off, with hundreds of websites offering work ranging from teaching in South Africa, to building orangutan sanctuaries in Borneo. Visit originalvolunteers.co.uk or projects-abroad. co.uk to explore the vast range of volunteering opportunities. While the general purpose of working abroad is to make money to support your travelling costs, many volunteer schemes ask for an upfront payment, to support your travel or living expenses. Being charged may jar initially, however part of the exchange here is that in return for the money you pay towards the
project, you get a once in a life time experience, and an excellent addition to your CV. Swansea University student, Rachel Stevens, recently travelled to Uganda where she volunteered at a school for a month. She said “I was a bit hesitant at first with the cost of the flights being so high, but it was definitely worth it and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again.” Bar work The appeal of bar work is that once you have learnt how to pull a pint at home, you can pull one anywhere, from Ibiza to Hong Kong. It is an especially great option if you plan to spend a considerable length of time in a place that is known for partying, or search seasonworkers. com to find vacancies in any destination. Most clubbing resorts are constantly on the look out for new staff, with more and more students being drawn in by the appeal of a clubbing holiday in the sun which pays for itself.
Bar work allows you to socialise all night as well as all day, although it can become tiring and often the pay doesn’t entirely cover expenses. Student Howard Johnston worked in Rhodes last summer. He says: “It was long hours and low pay but the nightlife was amazing. I loved it but it’s definitely a one-time experience.” Helping hands This is a scheme in which you offer your services as a helping hand. You can do this by signing up to a website such as helpx.net or workaway.info, where you can apply to offer your services in a variety of ways. The range of options listed on these sites goes from picking raspberries on an organic farm in Serbia, to au pair schemes in Turkey. In return for your services, the people you stay with will generally give you accommodation and food, allowing you to save on expenses for months on end while immersing yourself in the local culture.
societies
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E n h a n c e yo u r s t u d e n t e x p e r i e n c e
Society News Roundup
Festival of Light went off like a rocket! THE Indian Society Swansea University (ISSU) celebrated Diwali in style. The festival of lights was marked by a party in three venues. It started with a fireworks demonstration outside the Fulton house, followed by a luscious three course Indian meal by Peachy Keens
served in Fulton Classroom. Finally the party was raved by Bollywood music played by DJ Raj from Bristol in DV8. The dress code was traditional Indian formal. Dolkar Shakya won Miss Pataka and Omkar Samel won Mr Pataka, for best dressed girl and boy (Pataka means fireworks).
EVERY week, we give you the roundup for what’s going on in and around the Union with your societies.
Modern Foreign Languages Offer Classes To The Masses S
EVERAL language societies have been gaining attention for their ideas about spreading the language and culture of their respective society, writes James Langridge It is important to look back nine months, when the University proposed a re-structuring of the MFL department, which would have lead to a decrease in the number of teaching staff and number of places available for students. Following a wave of protests by the Students’ Union and FIGS committee which culminated in a mock funeral through Singleton Abbey, the decision was overhauled by the University and there were no cuts to any language departments. Fast forward to the present and following a strong number of signups at Freshers’ Fayre, the language societies have all found their own way of offering language classes. Leading the way is the Spanish Society. Inevitably, you will have encountered a poster advertising the classes. They are seemingly everywhere!
Starting this year, the society is offering evening classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced students, and has signed up 30 people. The Spanish Society is hoping that this will be a long term programme that will be held for years to come. Alongside the obvious advantage of improving personal language skills, the classes also allow for Spanish speaking Erasmus students to interact through their native medium. Spreading There are also numerous people at the classes that do not study Spanish formally, thus spreading Spanish language and culture beyond the Spanish department and to the entire student body. As Ian Morgan says: “In light of the proposed cuts to languages, the classes offered show that people are still interested in language even if they don’t study them”. Following a different example is the German Society, with their programme starting next semester. They aim to differentiate their afternoons from
formal classes and have what Linda Menzel, Social Secretary, describes as a “casual conversation afternoon with only German or English, dependent on whether it’s a UK or overseas student, being spoken”. The Italian Society are following the example of the Spanish Society and hosting a series of classes with a native speaker. Beginning after Christmas, classes will be offered at beginner and advanced level, with numbers being small to allow people to maximise their learning. It will be open to both Italian students and students that are interested in the Italian language and culture. The French Society is currently unable to host classes due to being unable to find a teacher. If you feel that you are an enabled Francophone, contact the society and help them achieve their aim of starting classes. •For any information regarding classes, contact: spanish@swanseaunion.co.uk, german@swanseaunion.co.uk, italian@swansea-union. co.uk french@swansea-union.co.uk
society SPOTLIGHT
Scandinavian Society
THE Scandinavian society is a place where Nordic students can find each other in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Help is offered to new students finding their way around university and making new friends. Members are from many different nationalities and backgrounds and the main language spoken is English. Scandinavia consists of the countries of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. The society organises social events that include paintballing and casual drinks. Another highlight is a trip to watch Norway playing Wales at football in the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. The society also plans to host a traditional Norwegian Christmas dinner in December. Email: scandinavian@swansea-union.co.uk
French Society - Wine and Cheese
The annual “Wine and Cheese” social is being held in the Xtreme Lounge on 17 Nov. The social includes free entry to Sin City afterwards! £3 Members | £5 Non-Members french@swansea-union.co.uk
USA Studies - ThanksGiving Dinner
The American Studies Society will be hosting a Thanksgiving dinner at West Cross Inn, Gower to celebrate the traditional American holiday on the last Thursday in November. £16 Members | £18 Non-Members amss@swansea-union.co.uk
Big Green Makeover - People & PLanet
People and planet are hosting a training session for the Big Green Makeover on 26 November. This scheme is to help students make their lifestyles more eco-friendly. peopleandplanet @swansea-union.co.uk
New Society - Swansea Gamers Corps
SGC will be holding regular meetings and practice sessions for games such as Fifa, Street Fighter, Call of Duty, Starcraft 2 and many more. They already have a team competing in a tournament between UK Universities. sgc@swansea-union.co.uk
Drama society - The Hothouse
On 21/22 November, the Drama Society will be performing Pinter’s ‘The Hothouse’ in Divas. £3 Members | £4 Students | £6 Public drama@swansea-union.co.uk
Amnesty - stop the death penalty
The Amnesty International society has launched a campaign called ‘Stop the Death Penalty’. See their Facebook page. amnesty@swasea-union.co.uk
PAKISTANI SOCIETY - EID SOCIAL
On 18 November, the Pakistani Society is holding its biggest social of the year - Eid. They are planning a Bake Sale and a free Henna stall on Friday morning. In the evening there will be Desi entertainment and Pakistani food. Tickets are at £5 for members and £7 for non-members. pakistani@swansea-union.co.uk
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SPORT I 27
INTRAMURAL
Intramural football is competitive 11-a-side football, played between 18 teams all comprising students from Swansea University. League games are played within walking distance of campus on the Ashleigh Road playing fields. Afterwards, most teams have a social session either in JC’s or out in Wind Street... or both! Cup matches are played on Sundays, with the showpiece final the highlight of the Intramural calendar.
SWANSEA STUDENT EVENTS CUP DRAW
by Rich Fulton
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk THE first Swansea Student Events Cup draw of the 2011/12 season took place in Divas on Wednesday 9th November. With some excellent drink deals having been negotiated, and every team represented, the atmosphere was electric, the banter was flying and the taste of dreams of scoring that last minute winner at St Helens was almost palpable in the musty air. With the entire fixture list being cancelled due to the poor weather, there was an abundance of nervous energy in anticipation of the cup draw. First up was the preliminary round, which everyone hoped to avoid as it meant an extra game before the first round proper. With last seasons champions Ajax Treesdown were exempt from the prelimary draw, the other 17 teams sat in near silence, waiting for announcer Ben Swanson, to speak. History FC vs Armadillo was the first game drawn, closely followed by Clinical Finishers vs Hardly Athletic. Next up followed the 1st round draw
proper, the pick of the ties probably being last seasons League Champions, the SUMFC 6ths, picked to play against the League runners-up, Sketty Bolognese. With Sketty looking to avenge their last day defeat from last season and 6ths looking to end their years of cup hurt, it could be a cracker. Last season Cup Winners, Ajax, were drawn to play new-comers Signature, and will be hopeful of repeating their success from last year. As BBB were drawn to play KAY FC, the captain of the latter, sent some banter zipping across the room to which BBB failed to respond adequately. The match promises to be a spicy affair, with friends on both sides. The full draw is listed below: 1) History FC vs. Armadillo 2) Clinical Finishers vs. Hardly Athletic 3) Photosinthesis vs. SPR 4) Uni 7ths vs. Winners of match 1 5) Sub Standard Liege vs. Winners of match 2 6) BBB vs. KAY FC 7) Cefn Eleven vs. Sloth AFC 8) Sketty Bolognese vs. Uni 6ths 9) Crayola vs. The Firsts 10) Signature vs. Ajax Treesdown
who could string 5+ passes together, things went to pot as minnows turned frogs Sub-Standard Liege produced a famous fightback to edge the game to 3-3. Top no more Team Sloth, but man in a jacket thinks you could be a team to watch out for, with Sub-Standard definitely looking to cause a few upsets this year. Over the last few years, Man in the jacket always thought of SPR as a bunch of thugs, but it’s nice to see some good personalities are with them this season. Despite that, they think being level on points with Team Sloth is the best thing since sliced bread, following a win against fast food giants KAY FC and History Boys, and taking a point against the newly resurrected Clinical Finishers, who are having the best come back since Meatloaf announced his new ‘Bat out of hell’ album earlier this century. Last year, when people thought Photosynthesis, they thought St. Johns Ambulance on speed dial. Another epic change of story. Photosynthe-
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2
THE Olympic torch tour is coming to Swansea University next month inBonville Bulldogs Blazin search of inspirational young people PhotoSinthesis Grasshoppers to carry the flame during next year’s torch relay. Cefn Eleven The visit, on Monday, October 17, is Signature part of a nationwide search for “future flames”. Clinical It aims too recognise and reward the Finishers History F.C. positive contributions made by young people in the region every day. Coca-Cola, a partner of the London Crayola FC 2012 Olympic torch relay, will be calling Uni 6ths on everyone in Swansea to nominate the future flames they know. SPR They include young people who use K.A.Y F.C. their passion in areas like sport and physical activity, music and dance, and Sketty community and the environment; to Bolognese Hardly Athletic spread happiness in their local communities. Tom Upton, Swansea students’Team unionArmadillo societies and services officer said: “We The Firsts are delighted to welcome the Coca-Cola Olympic Torch Tour so that the people of Team Sloth Swansea University can celebrate all the Sub-Standard Liege amazing things our local young people are doing. Uni 7th’ “We want everyone on campus to s Ajax Treesdown nominate the inspirational young peo
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Due to adverse weather conditions, all fixtures were postponed due to water-logged pitches. All fixtures will be re-arranged at a later date.
League Review SO the most barbaric league in Swansea is yet again in full swing, with accusations of referees not knowing their whistles from their watches and teams strutting their stuff in Wind Street as cross dressers, golfers and chino wearing pansies. The usual teams can say they’ve had good starts, but all apart from one have dropped points. Last year’s cup winners Ajax Treesdown went 3-0 up to the Uni Men’s 7ths (yes, they are established men!), but as soon as the second half game, their ultimate weapon of a long throw failed to work while throwing into the wind of hurricane Abertawe and made for an exciting finale for man in a jacket to watch, with Ajax only just winning the game 4-3, a fair revenge against the Uni teams considering the previous weeks 1-0 defeat to the University’s 6th best official football team. The other big boys of the league Team Sloth, might have been signing ‘we are top of the league’ down Wind Street on the last Wednesday of October, but as soon as they met a side
RESULTS
sis now play football! Photo have had tough opposition in the form of Sketty Bolognese and Blazin Bonville Bulldogs, but an unfortunate series of injuries leaves man in the jacket of the opinion that they are a team who will stir a few cauldrons come the new year. Sketty Bolognese seem in more of a tangle than the rejects at Heinz at the moment. With a tough cup draw coming up against the 6th’s (yes, the men!), a surprise opening defeat against the History Boys left the team blaming the ref for everything, from penalty decisions to wind direction. Man in a jacket recommends a ‘respect the ref’ course for the near future. Man in the jacket doesn’t have time to watch all games, but over the next few weeks I will be targeting the mighty BBB, History Boys and The Firsts (men status tbc).
The Man In The Jacket
Photo by: Marc Holmes
Top Scorers Joe White (The Firsts)
6 Lewis Clare (Uni 7ths) 6 Robbie Evans (Hardly Athletic) 5 Greg Jerrett (Team Sloth AFC) 4 Jack Tomaney (Sketty Bol) 4
Top Assists James Mahoney (Team Sloth AFC) 4 Adam Bruton (Ajax Treesdown) 4 Michael Pritchard (Uni 7ths) 4
Team Profile: Armadillo ARMADILLO are a side that are on the up. After their inaugural season had them finishing in the lower half, Captain Greg Stephenson hopes to see the club challenge on all fronts. Lofty ambitions indeed, and to follow through on these aims, Armadillo will need to beat the teams who finished around them last season. When questioned on who he would like to beat the most, Stephenson mentions one of the new teams in the league this season. “We need to beat Cefn 11, because our team split in half at the end of last year and went on to form Cefn,” he added. Of course, the one thing everyone wants to know is where Armadillo got their name from. “We were named after our first trial one of our unsuccessful triallists was chased onto the beach by an Armadillo”.
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SPORT I 29
Late sinFreshers spark bin costs Hard week for women’s football football success Swansea victory SWANSEA 1st 1-2 GLAM 1st by David Hendy
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.couk
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
GLOUCS 2nd 9-0 SWANSEA 2nd
by Alex Roberts & Craig Hadley waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
SWANSEA women’s footballers experienced a tough week as both the first and second team lost. Swansea firsts and Glamorgan took to the field on the back of successive wins in the league. Talitha Drennan was denied early on by the offside flag, before Glamorgan also came close with Swansea defender Colette Bailey denying Alannah McLaughlin. After half time Glamorgan took the lead, Lucy Edwards reacted first to a parried shot. Swansea battled back and equalised through Lauren Walker whose powerful strike beat the keeper. Glamorgan’s striker Linsey Mochan was an ever-present problem for the home side and scored the winner five
minutes from time. Swansea seconds faced the prospect of being bottom of the table come the final whistle as they faced Gloucestershire away. Swansea were on the back foot from the start, conceding five in the first half. The away side failed to create many clear cut chances, with Rudge often left isolated up front. Swansea had one great chance in the opening half, but were denied by a tight offside decision by the assistant referee. Midway through the second half, Swansea’s keeper Tasha Wilcox collided with the home side’s striker, forcing each side into a change. Swansea showed spells of good passing but failed to profit from possession, and despite a strong display by left back Amy Rowe, Swansea’s defence could not cope.
showing the increase in quality this MEN’S football firsts captain Zak year.” Shayler believes the rapid improveThe quality of players’ trialing was ment in men’s football is due to the higher this year, meaning some top record number of trialists and the quality players were forced to play in amount of freshers involved in the the seconds or even thirds teams. top two teams. Shayler also feels that because of Shayler commented: “We’ve imthe amount of younger players being proved the standard this time round handed the opportunity to play highwith a record number of trialists this er quality football, it gives the squad year. “ a higher reputation factor, with the “Over 160 players trialed and the main aim overtaking the men’s rugby standard from the firsts to the sevunion as the perceived team with the enths is the highest it’s ever been.” greatest reputation in the university. Shayler said: “The first team have 6 “We’ve got a better reputation freshers and we’re looking at keeping around the university as a more serithem in that squad throughout their ous club and I think we’re emerging time in university.” from behind the rugby [union] teams Being able to keep hold of 6 freshers shadow.” in the first team will only benefit the “We’re trying to surpass rugby now squad as their experience will help as the leading sport in the university.” the university team in the coing years. The first team has top spot in their This future planning is not often dissights after a fantastic start to the seaplayed by the football team, however son, including an away win against after losing many players last year, bitter rivals Cardiff. this planning has been forced upon Shayler said: “We’re looking for pro them to sustain and develop a squad motion for most of our football teams worthy of challenging the top teams this season, especially for our top 2 in the country. teams, as our seconds got relegated “Although there are only 3 freshers last season and we’re looking at getin the second team, but those three ting them back up to where they beplayers are high quality and two years long.” ago would have made the first team,
Fencing team put Bristol to the sword MEN’S FENCING 1st
by Daniel Matcham & David Hendy waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk COACH Richard Rapier said he was “relieved and hopeful” after Swansea University men’s fencing team secured a narrow home victory by 101-99 against Bristol University’s 2nds. The victory, coming on the back of a defeat at the hands of the neighbours of the opposing side, Bath University. It was ultimately delivered by James Harrington in the final bout of the contest. It took a real team effort with fine performances across all three disciplines to cement the fine-line victory. In their first fixture of the season, away to newly relegated Bath, the match had finished 135-97 in favour of the home side, a disappointing result for Swansea University. Sion Carpenter, the first team captain, was seemingly in an optimistic mood even before the first en-garde had been uttered. Carpenter said “We’re facing Bristol 2nds, but Bristol 1sts are in the top division and they may call on some of
SWANSEA BRISTOL 2nd
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their players.” “We’re confident though.” Swansea started the stronger of the two sides in the first of the disciplines, the ‘foil’. George Orchart, Dan Ridsdale and Carpenter all impressed as Swansea won a stop-start contest plagued with foot-faults from both sides. The second set of bouts, the ‘saber’, were a much brisker affair, with most decisions recorded as clear-cut. Swansea duly recorded another stage win to leave themselves in a strong winning position before the final and decisive discipline. Bristol turned the contest around by dominating the ‘eppe’, and sent it right down to the wire. Harrington capped off a thrilling display to spark jubilant celebrations in the home camp. Rapier admitted afterwards “I am relieved but hopeful for the rest of the season.” “We need to work on the ‘eppe’ but it is nothing we can’t handle”. The fencer’s next contest is away to Southampton 1st on Wednesday 16th November.
Photo by: Kate Steinbach
MEN’S HOCKEY - 2nd’s
SWANSEA GLOUCS
3 3
by David Hendy
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
CAPTAIN Luke Parsons has defended his team’s performance after they went down to 10 men following a sin-binning three minutes from time, costing Swansea a victory over Gloucestershire. Prior to the sin-binning, Swansea were 3-2 up against Gloucestershire and dealing with the pressure being applied upon their defence. However with the sin-binning, Gloucestershire made the most of their one man advantage and were awarded a short corner, which the successfully scored from. “Towards the end, especially when everyone’s getting more tired, means we have to run about more to cover the hole,” said Parsons. “He’s a player that always plays his heart out, that’s the way he plays and he was unlucky that happened to him today. He always puts in 110% that guy, so can’t fault him on it.” Unlike their previous match against Swansea University 3rd, the seconds got out of the blocks from the starting whistle, applying pressure from the off and played the more positive play out of the two teams. “We went out hard from the start, I feel we are very unlucky to get a win here today,” said Parsons. The goals for Swansea were wellworked and finished expertly, with all three goals capitalising on the Gloucestershire weakness to defend their left-side. However Gloucestershire were equally clinical, capitalising on poor communication and decision making at the back from Swansea. Although the match ended in a draw, it was not the result of great play. Both sides committed many errors and this was the trait of the match, with most of the goals being scored due to poor defending, most notable the second Gloucestershire goal after a mix-up between the Swansea goalkeeper and defence. “I’m disappointed with the result. They [Gloucestershire] weren’t a bad side by any means, but I think we deserved to come away with a win.” “However things are definitely are looking up for us and we’ll be sure to do well.” As long as Swansea improve communication in their defence, they will no longer concede last minutes goals that will hinder their successes this season.
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Errors cost Swansea WOMEN’S NETBALL - 2nds
thewaterfront 207 14.11.11
Swansea netball clean up against Bath university
CARDIFF 3rds 42 SWANSEA 16 by James Aust
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk CAPTAIN Alys Habberfield insists Swansea needs to improve after being comfortably beaten by Cardiff away. Despite some excellent passages of play, particularly in the second half, Swansea were unable to keep up with Cardiff’s consistent scoring. Habberfield said: “We want to improve upon the performance and we want to win because we know we can and this match will give us the drive. “Everyone gave their all and I can’t ask for more than that, I cannot fault anyone.” The damage was done in the first half as Cardiff notched up a 26-7 lead. Swansea showed their fighting spirit and in the final two quarters, it was far more even. An impressive display by goal shooter Katy Lewis and goal attack Evelyn Jay helped Swansea score at a decent pace; looking more threatening than the Cardiff side at many points in the match, but the score didn’t reflect this.
Photo by: Kate Steinbach WOMEN’S NETBALL 1st team by Alex Roberts
SWANSEA BATH 3rd
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
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A RUTHLESS attacking display pleased Swansea captain Brooke Collett in her side’s 45-28 win over Bath at Sketty.
Swansea benefitted greatly from the interceptions of goal-defence Angharad Morris and the clinical finishing of goal-attack Katie Lelliott and goalshooter Rebecca Steingrass. Collett said: “We played with great speed and control, and converted the majority of chances that we got into goals which is really pleasing.” “There were a few loose passes but we managed to put a stop to a lot of their moves, thankfully.” When asked about her team’s ambitions for the season, Collett commented: “[Ours are] Just to stay up. We got promoted last season so we’re just going to focus on staying in the league and consolidating.” Swansea accelerated into an early lead with Lelliott scoring two goals and Steingrass getting three. Bath bravely fought back however, with the impressive goal attack Emma Groundwater helping to pull the score back with three of her own. Swansea soon regained their composure and incisive passing from captain Collett paved the way for Swansea to end the first quarter 11-8 in front. Bath started the second quarter strongly and the Swansea team had Morris to thank for intercepting a cou-
ple of moves that could have caused them problems. Swansea had a Bath leaning-offence to thank moments later as Lelliott took advantage to score the resulting free shot. The third quarter proved to be much tighter in terms of goal action, but after a contact offence in the goal circle, Steingrass’ penalty made it 31-23. The final quarter saw Swansea regain their foothold on the game and a series of impressive, flowing team moves led to the team taking a 39-25 lead. Bath rallied and had Groundwater again to thank for making the score look less one-sided, but those efforts proved to be in vain as defensive encroaching from the Bath defence allowed Steingrass to add to the Swansea score. A late flurry of impressive shooting from Lelliott, including one from an excellent skill pass from Steingrass, put the result beyond doubt as the game ended 45-28. Swansea’s next encounter is away to Bristol 1st on Wedensday 16th November.
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Swansea women’s football get set for grudge match by Craig Hadley
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk WE caught up with Swansea 1sts and 2nds captains ahead of their upcoming grudge match. Swansea 1sts have started brilliantly this season with captain Ria Llewellyn leading her side to three points from top. Bethan Rudge’s 2nds have had contrasting results with the newly promoted side finding it hard to adjust to life in the 2B division. How long have you been playing football? RL: I started playing football when I was about eight, and have been playing for teams since really. BR: Since I was about ten, probably younger than that, because my friend’s dad taught the boys team and I used to go along. Who are your inspirations? RL: One of my old coaches, he was one of the best coaches I’ve ever had. He gets into you that football is more than a game and you should take every game seriously. BR: My friend’s Dad was one of them. Another one was a girl in my school, and she played for England a couple of times. She took me on and coached me quite a lot. What is your favourite moment as a Swansea player so far? RL: Varsity the atmosphere is wicked, obviously the result didn’t go our way, but like I think it’s the games, you’re so close that you pip them at the post which are the best to play.” BR: It’s probably got to be the seconds getting promoted last season. The whole season last season we played so well as a team and before that we only really won a game a season. To build it up and get promoted was probably the best moment. How did you two become captain? BOTH: Every year people put themselves forward and you have to give a little speech and then it’s down to the girls to vote. Do you enjoy being responsible for leading your team out every week? RL: Yes, when your team is having a good game you feel like you’ve done a good job and you are quite proud of your players. Like last week’s game I was very proud of them regardless of the result. BR: It’s great actually. Especially when you see how much they enjoy it. So being able to take people out and they come off the pitch, they have smiles on their faces.
CARDIFF 1st SWANSEA
RL: Yes it does, it shows every other player has no excuse to not play their hearts out. BR: Yes, when your captain it gives you an extra push to work hard. You want to be on the pitch for every single second and trying your hardest because you don’t want to let anyone down.
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
RL: See how it goes down the season, we are getting results but hopefully we get more goals. BR: Hopefully we can win Varsity. What would winning the league mean to you? RL: Oh it would be a massive achievement, Varsity is a big thing that everyone wants to win every year. But like the league is the effort you put in every single week. I still see the league as more important because it shows you are working hard every week.
Does playing the second team put more pressure on your team to perform? RL: Yes, I think it does. I think it’s a bit of healthy competition; we are going to take it as serious as a normal game. We need the win, because the top of the league is very close, it will be a good game to play. Does playing the first team give you more determination to try and pull off an upset? BR: It does. It would be amazing, even to be close to them in that game, we are going to have to approach it seriously, because they need goals and we need to not let in goals. There will be enough of a competitive edge to make it a good game. Will Tasha Wilcox be fit to play against the 1sts after her injury away against Gloucestershire? BR: She should be yes. She’s fine and her leg is fine.
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by Tom Nightingale
What does the future hold for you?
BR: It would be amazing. We are going to have two massive games against the Met who are probably the team most close to us, as they got promoted last year too.
Swans beat Cardiff on the road MEN’S FOOTBALL - 1st team
You put so much effort in for your sides; do you think being captain inspires you to give more for the team?
What would staying up mean to you following last year’s promotion?
SPORT I 31
Photo by: Kate Steinbach
Rugby league streak continues by Tom Grigson
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
STEFFAN WALTERS is buoyant after his sides start to the season, expecting great things from the side. Swansea survived a strong Cardiff Met fight-back to win, extending their unbeaten run to three games. Captain Walters said: “I couldn’t ask for a better start for the season. “We’ve still got a few big weeks ahead of us but I really do believe this league is ours for the taking.” Despite blustery conditions, both sides made good use of the football, Swansea’s superior back play created an early chance for Jack Longley, but a crucial knock-on denied the opening score. Cardiff Met pushed forward but Swansea’s defended resolutely, and built on their strong defensive display to create the opening score after 20 minutes. After a strong tackle from Tom Grigson, Swansea broke on Cardiff with Longley scoring the first of the game. Matt Thomas followed up with the conversion. Swansea then built on their impressive start, forcing Cardiff Met into errors on which Matt Wotherspoon capi
MEN’S RUGBY LEAGUE 1st team
SWANSEA 28 CARDIFF MET 1st 18 talised, allowing Owain Morgan, Thomas, and Bengo Jones to score. Thomas then failed to convert each time before the break. The home side made the worst possible start to the second half, conceding early possession and allowing Cardiff Met back into the game with an early conversion. Swansea’s problems continued when Jones was sent off for a high tackle, forcing a tactical reshuffle, but responded in the best possible way when Longley scored his second try of the game, Thomas converting. Cardiff Met threw everything at Swansea in the final 30 minutes scoring three more tries, but with Morgan grabbing his second of the game; it ensured another victory for the unbeaten Swansea side. Swansea’s next fixture is away to Gloucestershire 2nds on Wednesday 16th November in a mid-table clash.
PETE OCKWELL sets his sights on winning the league following their win against rivals Cardiff. Swansea made it two wins out of two in the league after a solitary goal from James Pickup to secure victory over fierce rivals Cardiff. Captain Ockwell stated after the match his satisfaction with both the performance and the result of the side, he said: “The commitment and spirit of the side was key to the win.” Despite a poor playing surface, Swansea applied pressure from the kick-off and inside the first ten minutes a high ball into the penalty area caused a scramble from Cardiff. Cardiff’s goalkeeper failed to deal with the ball under pressure from Swansea’s attack, with Pickup to turn the ball into the roof of the net. Swansea then went on to dominate the first half, with Swansea’s team coach Nick Bowen stating his side should’ve been “about four goals up” at the break, and would have been but for some great goalkeeping from Cardiff. In the second half, Cardiff’s display improved with them retaining the possession more often, however a superbly organised defensive display ensured that Swansea saw the game out in relative comfort. Ockwell added: “I thought the lads’ battling today was absolutely fantastic. “The season’s going really well for us so far, to have two wins out of two at this stage is obviously really positive. Our ultimate aim for this season is to go on and win the league.” Swansea can take many positives from this match. The discipline in defence, the ball retention and distribution in midfield was at times top quality, and match winner Pickup led the line superbly. Both sides had been looking forward to this match as the rivalry intensifies towards the Varsity contest. After this result, Swansea hold the bragging rights between the pair. However, any suggestion that this result would give any real indication of what was to be expected in the annual Varsity match between the two sides at the end of the year was quickly quashed. Ockwell added: “Varsity’s a completely different game. “We’ll be playing Cardiff in front of around 2000 people, and the pressure to perform in that kind of atmosphere is completely different to what we faced today.”
November 14, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk
INSIDE
sport thewaterfront
Cardiff Silenced by Swans page 31
SWANS THREE POINTER WOMEN’S BASKETBALL 1st team
SWANSEA CARDIFF 1st
64 63 Photo by: Kate Steinbach
by Tom Nightingale
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University captain Tino Dzaro and coach Kurt Williams were both delighted with Swansea’s narrow victory against rivals Cardiff, with Williams describing it as a “great win.” By half time, Swansea led 34-29. Cardiff’s threat predominantly came through their forward Lisa Fitz, who never looked out of the game, and the second half proved to be even tighter
than the first. Both sides missed numerous chances, but by the end of third quarter Swansea’s lead had been extended to 55-46. By the final quarter the Swansea side had begun to tire and Cardiff were able to close the gap to the extent that with three minutes to play, the scoreboard read 58-57 to Swansea. A late flurry of points meant that Cardiff’s triple-free-throw in the last ten seconds was not enough to deny Swansea an excellent victory. “I think we definitely deserved to win, but it
was a tight game,” said Dzaro after the game, with a hint of relief. Coach Williams said: “In our last game we lost 73-33 [to Southampton Solent], and I think the difference this week was that we worked a lot on our defence, particularly boxing out.” “Obviously it’s a great win for us. We were promoted alongside Solent last season, and Cardiff were already in the league, so we were naturally expecting a tough challenge, although Cardiff admittedly didn’t have a full team today.”
Williams continued: “I’m surprised they didn’t full-court press against us, but they played half-court defence and that worked to our advantage.” Cardiff’s coach was disappointed, but revealed he was looking forward to the prospect of a rematch. “We played in patches, as did Swansea. I think that when we come back next Wednesday, it’ll be another close encounter, both sides have some good players; there was some good shooting today.” “Defensively both sides today fell
asleep, and even if both teams tidy up their passing and their defence, I think it’ll still be a close game.” On the side’s aims this season, Dzaro was optimistic. “We would like to come somewhere up in the top, but we have a smaller team than we had last year. We only had one player from our team last year who stayed on the team through to this year. But we are working on making our team stronger, and we hope to be right up there at the end of the season.”
Results (2-9 Nov) & Upcoming Fixtures (16-23 Nov) FOOTBALL Men’s
(02) Cardiff 1st 0-1 Swansea 1st (02) Glam 2nd 6-4 Swansea 2nd (09) Swansea 2nd 1-3 Cardiff Med (16)Swansea 1st v. Hartpury 2nd (23) UWE 1st v. Swansea 1st
FOOTBALL Women’s
(02) Swansea 1st 1-2 Glamorgan 1st (02) Gloucs 2nd 9-0 Swansea 2nd (16) Swansea 1st v. Swansea 2nd (23) Cardiff 1st v. Swansea 1st
RUGBY UNION Men’s
(02) Cardiff Met 14-6 Swansea 1st (09) Bristol 1st 16-11 Swansea 1st (09) Swansea 2nd 25-0 Bath 2nd (16) Hartpury 1st v. Swansea 1st (23) Bath 1st v. Swansea 1st
RUGBY UNION Women’s (02) UWE 1st 7-20 Swansea 1st (09) Swans 1st 17-0 Plymouth 1st (16) Plymouth 1st v. Swansea 1st (23) Swansea 1st v. Bristol 1st
RUGBY LEAGUE Men’s
(02) Swansea 1st 28-18 Cardiff Met (09) Bath 1st 36-0 Swansea 1st (16) Gloucs 2nd v. Swansea 1st (23) Aber 1st v. Swansea 1st
NETBALL Women’s (02) Cardiff M 42-16 Swansea 2nd (02) Bath 3rd 36-35 Swansea 1st (09) Swansea 45-28 Bath 3rd (16) Swansea 2nd v. Gloucs 2nd (23) UWE 1st v. Swansea 1st
HOCKEY Men’s
(02) Glam 1st 4-3 Swansea 1st (16) Swansea 1st v. Bristol 3rd (23) Swansea 1st v. Bristol 2nd (23) Swansea 2nd v. Aber 2nd
HOCKEY Women’s (02) Swansea 1st 2-0 Cardiff Met (09) Bath 3rd 1-2 Swansea 1st (16) Swansea 1st v. Gloucs 2nd (23) Bristol 2nd v. Swansea 1st (23) Swansea 2nd v. Gloucs 3rd
ONES TO WATCH Men’s Badminton (16) Swansea v. Bournemouth Women’s Fencing (16) Swansea 1st v. Aber1st Women’s Netball (16) Swansea 1st v. Bath 3rd Mixed Golf (23) Swansea 1st v. Cardiff 2nd Men’s Basketball (23) Swansea 1st v. Swansea 2nd