thewaterfront
Free Issue 253 4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
t h e o f f i c i a l s t u d e n t n e w s p a p e r o f s w a n s e a u n i ve r s i t y
DEAN DOES IT AGAIN!
Controversial Dean of the School of Management Nigel Piercy has provoked outrage once again by describing trades unionists as “unpleasant and grubby little people”. The Dean, who has faced a 1,000 name petition and 13 formal complaints about the school since he took over in 2013, has run up against the unions over his unpopular reforms. Writing in his blog he hit back at them, saying that academics should not be fettered in their thinking by “Unpleasant and grubby little people, who purport to represent others because they have persuaded a tiny number of people to elect them to office in trades unions and the like, and appear to believe they have the right of veto over what academics publish and say.
“Usually distinguished only by their sad haircuts, grubby, chewed fingernails and failed careers, these undistinguished individuals feel entitled to censor what others say and write... “A further distinguishing characteristic is often straggly beards – half-way between designer stubble and a real beard, such growths are probably indicative of a hormone deficiency. But why is it that the rabid left wing believes that they alone have freedom of expression? “However did we allow such creepy little people to develop such an enlarged and disproportionate sense of entitlement, and blight our universities?” A spokeswoman for Swansea University said: “The blog represents the personal views of an academic colleague who has the freedom to express them.”
SWANSEA NAMED 2ND MOST DANGEROUS CITY by Laura Fiteni
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA has been named the second most dangerous place for students to live in. A report commissioned by StuRents has uncovered the most dangerous places in the UK to be an undergraduate by comparing the number of recorded crimes per thousand residents. The report measured all recorded crime in areas popular for student accommodation in 64 towns and cities across England and the UK. It concluded that Brighton was the most dangerous city for a student to live, followed by Swansea, Stoke on Trent and Newcastle. Swansea undergraduates were found to be living in the second worst area for recorded crime with 633 incidents per 1000 residents. A Home Office website which shows crime statistics according to post code showed that 81 crimes were reported within a one mile radius of the university in February this year alone.
The most affected sites were Gwydr Square, Victoria Avenue, Uplands Crescent, Brynmill Crescent and Gorse Lane. Anti-social behaviour was the cause of most reports but was closely followed by reports of theft, burglary and shop-lifting. The third most common crime was drug activity. Swansea students paid testament to this with personal accounts of theft and burglary during their university experience. Clarissa Purdy said: “Our house got broken into in the student village in 1st year during exam week while we were all asleep. Police gathered fingerprints and shoe prints and saw the intruders on CCTV but I don’t think that they caught them because we haven’t heard anything since.” Russel Flynn said: “Last year while living in the student village I had my laptop and headphones nicked, so I would say it is pretty bad.” “My boyfriend’s car was stolen last week and since then I can’t say I feel particularly safe!”, said Jessica Wendz. In most cases the crimes were nonviolent, however there were some exceptions. “A former flatmate of mine
got mugged at knifepoint walking from the student village,” said Rachel Henley. Francesca Hobson summarized: “ I think there is a lot of theft in Swansea. I know two people who have had their bikes stolen despite being locked up. I myself have misplaced my purse and thankfully had it returned to me, but not before the money had been emptied out of it.”
Safer Other students have jumped to the city’s defense, comparing their experiences to that of their home towns. Becca Kinsella said: “I personally find it much safer than my home town High Wycombe which ironically is listed as 2nd safest!” Jordan Hutchinson agreed: “I wouldn’t say I feel perfectly safe, but I don’t fear for my life when I’m walking about at night or anything like that. And I come from Birmingham, so it’s not that bad. I’ve never been told or witnessed a crime since I’ve moved here to be fair.” “I don’t think it’s that bad to be honest. I feel a lot safer walking around
in Swansea than I do when I visit other, bigger cities,” said Emily Godding. However Chief Superintendent for South Wales, Phil Davies said that there was a actually a low crime rate in Swansea and that these figures don’t accurately represent safety in the city. He said that crime in the city as a whole was 10% of that recorded in popular student accommodation areas with just 67 incidents per 1000 residents. However many students have said that they have little faith in the police’s ability to combat crime in student areas and police attitudes when dealing with students affected by crime. Chanté Lee said: “I had two motorbikes stolen from right outside my house in as many years despite my own security alarms on it. Both times there were no witnesses and the police seemed happy to leave it after a week or so.” Swansea University and University of Trinity Saint David were keen to dispute safety concerns and have urged students to consider the bigger picture.
INSIDE SPORT
Eight pages of reports page 33-40 NEWS
Make your vote page 5 count FEATURES
Not Top Knots!
page 16
02 I NEWS
thewaterfront 04. 05. 15
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Old Boys will gather to pay tribute to Jez at charity cricket match by Laura Fiteni
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University Cricket club committee and some of its alumni have arranged a charity match in memory of late cricketer Jeremy ‘Jez’ Suter. The game will be a university XI between the current members and past members - also known as The Old Boys - and was taking place on Sunday 3rd May. The event was introduced last year and was organised by that year’s club captain and Jeremy himself. Jeremy Suter, or ‘Jez’ as he was known to all of his friends, studied geography at Swansea and followed it with a PGCE at Oxford before becoming a teacher at his boyhood school of Beaconsfield. He passed away last October from a brain haemorrhage caused by an undiagnosed brain tumour. The idea behind the game originally was to have an event where former Swansea cricketers could come back for a weekend to meet up again with others who had left or younger members who were still at the university. This year the cricket club aim to continue the tradition set up by Jez and will play the match as a charity event in his honour. The money raised will be donated to two charities that Jez and his family supported in his home county of Buckinghamshire; food bank charity ‘Food For the Hungry’ and a cricket in the community charity the ‘Buck Youth Cricket Trust’. Both charities
Last year’s tournament.
Jez Suter. received donations from Jez’s funeral. “The best possible outcome for the day would be for as many people to come along and have a good day whilst raising money for very deserving charities and remembering someone who did more for the cricket club than anyone else,” said third year cricketer Chris Millett. The club will also be running a BBQ and refreshments.
The match will give the club the opportunity to ensure the longevity of Jez’s memory in the same way that Jez insured the longevity of the club. During his time as president of the cricket club, Jez helped to preserve the club when it was facing financial difficulty and has been described by current members as ‘the best batsmen the club had ever had’. Plenty of players and fans are getting behind the idea and have expressed their support for the match. “His affectionate and kind hearted nature was truly inspiring and is why so many people gravitated towards him,” said Alex Elliot. “Personally, this means a great deal: the idea of old boys vs current students resonated with me from the moment it was brought about. The idea that university doesn’t have to
What Uni? Swansea, of course! by a Waterfront reporter
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk SWANSEA University and the students’ union have scored very highly in this year’s WhatUni Awards 2015. Although Swansea was knocked from its top spot last year as University of the Year, it came in a very respectable third out of 113 universities. It also came in the top ten in six other categories. The university was 4th for clubs and societies, 5th for student support, 6th for courses and lecturers, 6th for students’ union, 6th for university facilities and 9th for accommodation. Lowest scores were 14th for job prospects and 25th for city life. The difference between the Whatuni Student Choice Awards and other university rankings tables is that it is solely driven by student opinion. The 2015 results were based on over 20,000 ratings and reviews written between April 2014 and March 2015. Meanwhile, the QS World University
Rankings by Subject 2015 published on 29 April show that Swansea continues to do well globally in three leading subjects: Civil & Structural Engineering (top 200), Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing (top 250) and Mathematics (top 300). In the Complete University Guide 2016, which came out on 27 April, Swansea University was ranked 45th out of 126 universities in the UK. Swansea appears among the top 10 universities in seven of its 40 subjects included in the listings. Another area in the guide where Swansea excels is producing high calibre, global graduates that are attractive to potential employers as
evidenced by our continued top 20 ranking for Graduate Prospects. In addition, when ranked by Research Quality, Swansea University has once again been recognised as a top 30 research institution with an impressive ranking of 24th in the UK up 23 places on last year, highlighting the quality, scale and impact of our world leading research. Professor Hilary Lappin-Scott, Swansea University Pro-ViceChancellor, said: “Swansea University is today celebrating a week of successes in the world and UK higher education rankings. “Being ranked overall in the top 5% of universities in the world and the top 30 research institutions in the UK is a major reflection of the hard work and dedication which we have put into improving the design and delivery of our teaching and research. “Our university is continuing to score particularly high on graduate job prospects, where we are in the top 20 in the UK and undergraduate applications have been rising continually over the last three years.”
simply end once you leave is fantastic, to catch up with old friends and help the new students out is a great idea and good fun.” “Last year it was great to see everyone and be able to spend time catching up with people who have left in past years. This year that feeling will be much greater as we will be one man short who everyone would love to be there this time,” said Chris Millett. “It’s the first game since the passing of former club captain Jez Suter, a fixture in which he played a part in last year, captaining the old boys side. Jez was a great club captain, friend and team mate. The renaming of the trophy in his honour doesn’t really make up for the massive effect Jez had on the club, but will make sure his legacy remains,” said Euan Tippings.
X-Factor comes to Swansea by a Waterfront reporter
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk THE X Factor is coming to Swanseaas part of a mobile van tour. The production team will be in Swansea on 14 May, holding open auditions for the next series of The X Factor at Bambuu Bar on Wind Street from 11am to 6pm. You can register online for one of the audition days, just turn up at one of the audition days or send in your own video audition via https:// application.xfactor.tv/ The X Factor creator Simon Cowell says: ‘“The X Factor is coming back and, if you think you have the potential to be a world-class star, this is your chance to prove it. You really could be the next pop superstar.”’ Acts are advised to turn up early to the Mobile Auditions. On the Mobile Audition Tour they audition on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to
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NEWS I 03
Cheaper bus passes and late night services... by a Waterfront reporter
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk REDUCED student prices and late night buses have been revealed as part of a number of improved travel options for students in Swansea. The opening of the Bay Campus means there are likely to be more students than ever travelling across Swansea; and a Travel Plan has been put in place to ensure students have plenty of choices for travel in the city. Swansea University and the Students’ Union have been working with its partners at the City and County Swansea, Neath Port Talbot Council, and First Cymru, to ensure the best travel deals for students and a number of new and improved travel initiatives have been announced. A new Swansea City area bus pass has been created, which includes travel between campuses and within
Swansea. The new pass will see students paying a reduced rate of £300 for an academic year pass, a saving of £90 from last year. A full year bus pass has been reduced by £100 and termly passes also offer students savings from last year’s prices. Alongside these savings, two new bus routes to the Bay Campus have been created and bus timetables carefully planned to ensure students can travel from 6.30am to 11.30pm during weekdays in term time. With a bus every eight minutes there will be no shortage of busses for students getting between campuses and their homes. The university has also negotiated a late night service with First Cymru which will allow students to catch the bus until 2am Wednesday to Saturday nights for £1.50 or using their bus pass. For students wishing to cycle between campuses improvements
are being made to the cycle route between the Bay and Singleton and excellent bike parking facilities will be available at the Bay Campus. The Bay Cycle scheme will be extended across both campuses for students who don’t have their own cycles or fancy a scenic ride along the sea front. Jayne Cornelius, Travel Plan Coordinator said “I’m delighted that we’ve managed to get such a good deal for students – cheaper bus passes, longer times of service, more
...but students would prefer parking on the Bay campus
The new Bay Campus will have no parking for students. by Molly Dowrick
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk STUDENTS are looking forward to the new and improved facilities at the new Bay Campus, however, concerns and complaints have started to emerge regarding the lack of student parking anywhere across the massive 65-acre site. According to the South Wales Evening Post, residents living near the Bay Campus site were told that £2 million in European funding had been granted to the project for parking in the area, however the local council claimed that this £2million was actually for developments around the Fabian Way area and not on campus. With 917 study bedrooms opening in September 2015 and a further 545 bedrooms opening in January 2016, alongside thousands of second, third and postgraduate students studying on Bay Campus, it’s definitely a concern if there will be no places to park. University has announced new bus services and a reduced bus pass rate. Nevertheless, a £300 annual bus pass and/or having to commute to Singleton Campus before getting the bus to Bay Campus could be an unnecessary hassle for students, many of which already drive
to university and were expecting to drive to Bay Campus next year. Daniel Farr, a first year Electrical and Electronic Engineering student explained that when Bay Campus was announced, he was “expecting enough parking spaces to accommodate a good number of the expected students” and that “if I can’t park there [at Bay Campus] then I am basically stuck next year. I’ll have to walk to Singleton campus early in the morning to catch a bus to Bay Campus.” Many students have considered riding a bike to Bay Campus in September as they do not want to rely on the “overcrowded and often late Swansea buses”. First year Materials Science & Engineering student James Regan explained that a “moped or a bike or something that doesn’t take up too much space” is what he expects to be using next year, with Engineering student Richard Davis agreeing that “cycling is definitely an option” for getting to Bay Campus and escaping the no-parking issue. With expectations of parking for bikes and a strong bus service, students hope to be able to commute easily and quickly between the two campuses, city centre and off-site accommodation like Hendrefoelan Student Village. However, unfortunately, we may have to wait and see.
buses, new routes, massive spending on the cycle route, free Bay cycles. It’s going to be great for the University to have two campuses and with this Travel Plan all students are going to have a chance to enjoy all of the great facilities at both sites. ” In line with the university’s Sustainability Policy and current Singleton Campus guidelines there will not be student parking on campus, however those students who do wish to drive will be able to use the
Park and Ride facilities on Fabian Way. Chris Davidson, Commercial Development Manager of First Cymru said: “First Cymru have spent a lot of time working with Swansea University and other stakeholders to ensure we have planned the most effective network of bus services to get between the two campuses. “We have invested in new buses for dedicated routes, and this is on top of us providing free on-board wifi across most of our fleet, our new M-Tickets app, and reducing the price of season tickets for Swansea University students and staff. We are really looking forward to September, and hope that students are too.” Full details of the travel plan can be found on pages 20-21 and online at www.swansea.ac.uk/sustainability/ travel
Which way for the Left? The Marxist Society is hosting a Question Time style debate called Which Way For The Left? Student representatives from all left-leaning political societies will be debating and answering the audience’s questions.
This event is on Wednesday, 6th May, 7pm, in Lecture Room B, Fulton House. See the facebook group Swansea Marxists for more details. This is the night before the election, so is effectively a student-led hustings.
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NEWS I 05
Make your vote count this Thursday by Declan Murphy waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
BY now, you’ve probably heard about some of the policies that the main parties taking part in this week’s General Election hope to bring about. What you might not have seen as much of is their commitments to students and young adults. We students represent a very peculiar part of the electorate as, being in our final year(s) of education, we have to vote on the basis of not only the educational policy but also policies aimed at those getting to grips with the world. We also have the ability to vote in one of two locations, given you don’t live in Swansea West’s constituency. I’d honestly advise voting here simply because in all likelihood, your vote is more valuable here than in most of the UK. Last time round Swansea West had one of the highest valued areas for each individual voter. Over the next few paragraphs, you should learn some of what each of the main parties is willing to do for students on their stance on tuition fees, job creation and finally, the housing market. CONSERVATIVES: Last time round, the Conservatives boosted tuition fees three fold, from £3000 to £9000. On
top of this they also brought about a lot more jobs, mainly aimed at young people, but it is the long term status of these jobs that remains a problem in the eyes of many. The zero-hour contracts has been one of the weak points for opposition to target in their smearing of the Tories. This time round however, the Tories want to create 200,000 new homes for those under 40 buying for the first time. LABOUR: Offering a reduction on tuition fees in England from £9000 to £6000, Labour is trying to use the fallout of last elections tuition fees as a way to sway the student vote. Whether they will abolish the payments on the £3000 excess our unfortunate 3 years have gone through remains to be seen. They also want regulation put on the Conservative policy of zerohour contracts as to make sure a more permanent deal is offered to those after a given time working a zerohour and offer jobs to anyone under the age of 25 unemployed for more than a year and 2 years if over 25. Like the Conservatives, Ed and Co. have promised 200,000 houses by 2020 as well as a ceiling on private rent. LIBERAL DEMOCRATS: After the train wreck of Lib Dem’s plans for education last election, Clegg’s party isn’t commenting much on tuition fees and is unlikely to do so in fear of getting another slap on the wrist from the students of the UK and NUS. The Lib
Dems want an increase on the income tax threshold to £12,500 in the hope of bolstering those new onto the job market. Furthermore, the Democrats want a policy of 300,000 homes a year. GREEN: One of the biggest gainers, along with UKIP, is the Greens. A lot of former Lib Dem voting students have taken a shift into the green shade of politics due to their abolishment of tuition fees and paying them all of. How much this will affect us in terms of cutting the deficit is a cause for doubt. The Greens want to bring about a “Basic Income”, similar to a minimum wage, paid to all citizens. On top of this, Ms. Bennett would see the creation of 500,000 social homes and reintroduction of 350,000 unused homes back onto the market.
housing seeing as they will be the main three affecting most of us after this election. The BBC offers a nice condensed guide as to best compare each party’s policy, as well as providing links to each running party’s manifesto. It is all well and good voting come 7th May, but voting upon one or two policies and not the whole package can be just as detrimental. Vote May 7th, but vote informed.
PLAID CYMRU: Lacking a definitive, party wide, stance on tuition fees, it is hard to say exactly what Plaid’s status on tuition fees is. Plaid want a devolution of benefits and welfare to a Wales based system, presumably run by the NAW. In terms of housing, Plaid would see more rent controls implemented as a way to monitor rent better in areas affected by high costs. UKIP: Mr. Farage would see the abolishment of fees for those in the fields of Science, Technology, Maths and Engineering under the conditions that they pay UK tax and work in the field for five years after they finish
From an American perspective by Geries Tadros
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk DURING the election campaign, being an outsider who is unaffected by the outcome, it has been very entertaining watching party leaders articulate their dissimilar visions for the country. Whoever wins will have to address some of the biggest issues Britain faces. These candidates are making a number of promises, many of which are almost impossible to keep, to win people over. During election time this is to be expected. It is an election after all, and the candidates will do what they can to win. As an American, I have always and continue to believe that the political system of the United States is the best. It is neat, straight forward and very simple to understand. Most importantly the United States has a secular constitution. This constitution guarantees the rights of citizens. There is a separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. The United States has a presidential system, so when it comes to elections, we have two major political parties. The major two political parties, which are the Democratic and Republican parties, dominate the elections. We have free and fair election and citizens vote for the candidate they want. At times it can seem as if campaigns and elections can go on for a century. From an American point of view, the political system in the UK is difficult to understand. The political system has its pros and cons. The general election does not last as long as the elections in the United States, so people have to hustle to vote and make up their minds. With that being said, there are similarities between the American and British parties. For
studying. UKIP would also reduce the benefit cap and seek to remove us from the EU in an effort to “free up” jobs immigrants are taking especially in the low paid industries. By 2025 they would want the creation of 1,000,000 homes on land previously developed and protection of the green belt. I’d advise any prospective voter to read more into each party’s policy regarding students, welfare and
American student Geries Tadros. example, the American Republican Party and British Conservative Party are alike in a number of ways. Both are austere when it comes to immigration, which is a major issue in both countries. The Republican Party believes the number of immigrants coming in should very limited. The issue that they have is not one that involves space, because there is plenty of that in the United States. The issue that most of them have is taking care of and looking after those who need assistance. They believe time and money, which comes from the U.S. tax payer, should not be spent on immigrants. From an outsider’s point of view, there are more cons than there are pros when it comes to the UK political system. The idea that there are 121 or more ministers baffles me. Besides the prime minister, there are 21 cabinet members and 99 other cabinet members. All of the departments and agencies are responsible for implementing policies. The prime minister superintends government agencies and civil services, which is no small task. This all seems very complex and is difficult to understand. We will all know who has won the election by the end of this week, but only time will tell whether the victors will actually improve the lives of UK citizens or continue to make promises that cannot be kept.
Swansea University Couple Stand for Parliament: Ashley Wakeling and Julia Marshall, both second year students at Swansea University, are standing for parliament in this week’s General Election. Julia, a psychology student from Monmouth, is standing for the Green Party in the Gower constituency, while Ashley is standing for the Greens in Swansea West.
NEWS I 07
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LIBERATION
Welcome to the Liberation column. A platform for upcoming events, success stories and to discuss important issues relating to BME (Black and Minority Ethnic), LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender), disabled, women and international students, particularly but not exclusively. This week we focus on the Feminist Society.
by Akosua Darko waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk
WHEN I was a 15 year old, I struggled to find where I fitted in as a woman. I was not the type of girl who was interested in ‘girl things’ and, when girls gathered to do girl things I felt like an outsider. It’s not the nicest position to feel like you do not belong in your own gender or you should be someone you know you are not authentically. Then one day I opened up a magazine and read Funmi Iyanda’s story. This Nigerian talk show host presented a woman I had not seen before, this woman saw herself as “Funmi” she did not even try to be a woman, but an individual and she did not consider her authentic self vulnerable and did not care whether people thought she was beautiful or otherwise. As women sometimes we want people to think we are beautiful or worthy to be deemed so but being your authentic self and giving people no room to define you, puts no labels or expectation on you. Throughout the interview she seemed oblivious to people’s opinions of her, she was more interested in what she thought about herself, and
Spotlight on Feminist Society
I had never seen a woman with so much audacity to not even let gender dictates disturb her because she was Funmi and she “didn’t give a damn.” She even had the confidence to say “People say I am strong, resilient, driven, passionate, empathetic, funny and childlike. I tend to agree.” What was important was her agreeing, not what they said. Funmi gave me so much confidence to go out and be myself, because I saw more beauty in her than I saw in women who let gender roles constrict them. I saw beauty in being’s one true self, because some women think their beauty is in fitting into gender roles. One quote that stood out in her interview was, “they were the elephants in the room and elephants should be in their natural habitats not in rooms.” I think this fits the Swansea Feminist Society because they are trying to tackle the elephants in the room, in relation to gender inequality. “Feminism is the radical notion that women are people.” Is the quote of the Feminist Society’s cover photo n Facebook. The quote embodies one aim of feminism, giving women the option to not be one archetype in
society, bound by traditional roles and societal dictation but the freedom to be individuals. Since there is no longer a full-time women’s officer role in the students’ union, it is crucial that this society stands to address the gender inequality women face, in Swansea University and beyond, by discussion and forging campaigns to bring the victimization and inequality women face to light. This society, I am proud to say, is one of the hardest working in the university, its regular Twitter feeds and campaigns to get all genders in university thinking about what
Be the change you want to see, says officer elect by Robiu Salisu
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk LAST year in December I attended NUS Black Students Conference in London where I heard speeches from inspirational speakers such as Dr Nathaniel Tobias Coleman, Research in Philosophy at UCL who addressed the question ‘Why is my curriculum white?’. From there I was inspired to return to my campus to carry work on addressing the issue of the attainment (Belonging) gap between BME students and their white counterparts. After different initiatives and work in partnership with Swansea University Equal Ops team in holding a Black students forum - first in Swansea in two years - myself and Sara Correia (who has worked tirelessly in supporting and helping) drafted a paper on the Attainment Gap which we delivered at Developing Diversity Competence Conference in Edinburgh. Who would have thought that a volunteer part-time officer in his final year undergraduate would be delivering a paper about an issue which is dear to Black students all over the country? And to my surprise, one of the keynote speaker chosen for the conference was one of the very people who motivated me... Dr Nathaniel. I want to end by encouraging students from all across the country, get involve with your union, run for full time or part time officers, become liberation officers. Be The Change You Want To See!
Robiu at the conference in Edinburgh. If you would like to find out more about the conference or interested in becoming next year’s part-time BME Officer, do not hesitate to get in contact: bmeofficer@swansea-union. co.uk
feminism means and to get students involved in tackling gender inequality, show this society is passionate about bringing the issues women face to the fore and inspire students to talk and do something about these issues. I asked Alyce Markham from the Feminist Society a couple of questions. Akosua : What is the aim of the Feminist Society? Alyce: The Feminist Society gives the chance for anyone and everyone with a belief in gender equality at Swansea University to get together for a mixture of fun socials, different campaigns and discussions. Everyone is welcome, regardless of gender or sexuality. Akosua: What do you think of role of women’s officer being removed? Alyce : Removal of a women’s officer is a disappointment for all at the university, especially women and especially if it remains that all officer positions are filled by men. Akosua : The Feminist Society held its first ever forum on March 11 in conjunction with the Debating Society, inviting all students to get involved in discussions and debates, the topics up for discussion were
Sexualisation in the Media, 50 Shades of Grey, Wind Street. How do you think the forum went? Alyce: We thought it was very successful in that a wide range of people from different backgrounds and different genders attended. The meeting sparked great debates over topics such as Wind Street, politics, and the No More Page 3 Campaign. Akosua : Lad culture is a major problem in Swansea University, how does the society aim to tackle this? Alyce: FemSoc is tackling ‘lad culture’ by providing an open space for all genders to discuss relevant issues within the university. We hope that by encouraging this discussion and providing this platform, we can contribute to a safe university environment while countering ‘lad culture’. We hope that we can raise further awareness around the negative effects of ‘lad culture’ through publicly commenting on issues within the university, as can be seen in our article in The Siren. Follow the Feminist Society on Twitter at @SUSUFemSoc
thewaterfront 04. 05. 15
08 I NEWS
WELSH Oes gobaith i’r Gymraeg yn yr oes ddigidol neu beidio? by Lewys Aron welsheditor@swansea-union.co.uk
Ar ôl clywed am adroddiad comisiynydd y Gymraeg i wasanaethau bancio yn y Gymraeg yn dilyn twf o gwynion daeth un cwestiwn i’m meddwl. A oes gobaith i’r Gymraeg yn yr oes ddigidol? Daw’r cwestiwn yn sgil sylwadau Meri Huws bod banciau Cymru wedi methu â sicrhau gwasanaethau ar-lein trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg. Wrth gwrs, rydym wedi hen arfer â gweld arwyddion dwyieithog mewn canghennau ac rwyf o hyd yn ysgrifennu sieciau yn y Gymraeg. Ond yna sylweddolais... Nid wy’n mynd i’r banc yn gorfforol llawer bellach ac wrth feddwl amdani... mae dros 6mis wedi pasio ers i mi ysgrifennu fy siec ddiwethaf. Pryd oedd y tro diwethaf i mi ddefnyddio bancio arlein? Wel - rwyf wedi fy mewngofnodi nawr! Y pwynt rwy’n ceisio tynnu sylw at yma yw, bod chwyldro Cymdeithas yr iaith Gymraeg yn y 60au wedi sicrhau nifer o hawliau wrth i ni fynni wasanaethau cyfrwng Cymraeg yn gorfforol ond nad yw’r hawliau hyn wedi eu trosglwyddo i’r gofod ar-lein. A ydych chi erioed wedi gwneud eich siop ar-lein trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg? Rwyf erioed wedi, ond rwy’n aml yn defnyddio’r tiliau hunan wasanaeth yn Tesco trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg. A ydych chi erioed wedi defnyddio bancio ar-lein trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg? Nid wyf i wedi, ond rwy’n aml yn siarad Cymraeg i
Welsh language commissioner Meri Huws.
bwy bynnag sy’n gwisgo’r bathodyn siarad Cymraeg wrth gownter Lloyds yn Abertawe yn y Gymraeg. Ond, rhaid cyfaddef bod fy nheithiau i ganol y dre er mwyn defnyddio’r gwasanaethau hyn yn lleihau wrth iddi ddod yn llawer mwy cyfleus i mi ddefnyddio gwasanaethau o’r fath ar-lein. Rwy’n hollol sicr erbyn hyn fy mod i’n defnyddio llai a llai o’m Cymraeg o achos hyn. Lle cefais gyfle i wasgu’r botwm ‘Cymraeg’ ar dwll yn y wal rwy’ bellach yn defnyddio bar-code ar fy ffôn symudol er mwyn talu am nwyddau. Ar ôl cyfnod o fyfyrio daeth y sylweddoliad i’m meddwl. Ni fydd dyfodol i’r Gymraeg pe bai’r drefn
bresennol o wfftio’r Gymraeg ar-lein yn parhau. Rwy’n hollol sicr bod pawb sy’n darllen yr erthygl hon yn llwyr ymwybodol o ddylanwad cynyddol technoleg ar eu bywydau a pa mor integredig y mae technoleg yn y gymdeithas gyfoes hon. Rwyf yn aml yn gweld plant ifanc ifanc gyda’u pennau yn un â’u iPads yn chwerthin ar ryw gartŵn neu’n chwarae rhyw gêm lle mae rhaid poeni’ch ffrindiau i helpu chi ffarmio rhyw ddarn o dir neu brynu mochyn newydd i’ch ffarm trwy hysbyseb ar Facebook. A dyma’r gwirionedd sydd rhaid ei wynebu bellach - Mae’ch ffrindiau a’ch plant yn cael mwy o gysylltiad â Saesneg Americanaidd y rhyngrwyd na Chymraeg eich milltir sgwâr. Faint o’r gemau y maent yn chwarae sydd ar gael trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg? Dywedaf wrthych yr ateb yn awr - Braidd dim! Mae’n gwbl amlwg i mi nad oes modd i’r Gymraeg cystadlu gyda’r Saesneg ar-lein oni bai ein bod ni fel siaradwyr Cymraeg yn mynd ati i fynnu bod y llywodraeth yn actio er mwyn sicrhau dyfodol i’n mamiaith. Dyma’r hyn sy’n rhaid sicrhau - Rhaid creu deddfwriaeth er mwyn sicrhau bod gwasanaethau cwmnïau yr ydym yn defnyddio o ddydd i ddydd ar gael yn y Gymraeg ar-lein a bod cyllid ar gael i’r rheiny sy’n creu appiau i wneud hynny yn ddwyieithog heb wynebu cost ychwanegol. Yn annhebyg iawn gallwn ddibynnu ar y cwmnïau hyn i wario eu miliynau helaeth ar gyfieithu a chynnal gwasanaethau gyfrwng Cymraeg yn wirfoddol.
ENGLISH Is there any hope for the Welsh language in the digital age? by Lewys Aron welsheditor@swansea-union.co.uk
AFTER hearing about the Welsh language Commissioner’s report into banking services avaliable through the medium of Welsh after a flood of complaints one question came to my mind. Is there any hope for the Welsh language in the digital age? The question comes after reading Meri Huws’ comments that banks have failed to ensure on-line services through the medium of Welsh. Of course, we have become used to seeing bilingual signs in branches and I’m able to write cheques in Welsh in my Welsh language cheque book. But then I realised … …. I am not going to the Bank physically that much anymore and when I think about it ...6 months have passed since i wrote my last cheque. When was the last time i use online banking? I’m loged in right now! The point I’m trying to highlight here is that the Welsh language society’s mini ‘revolution’ in the 60s has secured a number of rights for Welsh-medium services physically but these rights
have not been transferred to online services. Have you ever shopped online store through the medium of Welsh? I have never - but I often use the self service till at Tesco through the medium of Welsh. Have you ever used online banking through the medium of Welsh? I have not, but I often speak Welsh to whoever is wearing the ‘I speak Welsh’ at Lloyds. But, admittedly, my travels to the centre of the town in order to use these Services has decreased significantly as it becomes much more convenient for me to use such services online. I’m certain that I’m using less and less of my Welsh because I’m unable to do so online. Where I had the opportunity to press a button for Welsh at the ATM I am now using a bar-code on my mobile phone to pay for goods. After a period of reflection I realised. There will be no future for the language if the curent trend online continues. I am absolutely sure that everyone who reads this article is fully aware of the growing influence of technology on their lives and how the technology isintegrated in this contemporary society. I often see young children with their eyes glued to iPads screens laughing at a
British banks failing to provide online services in Welsh cartoon or a game where you have to flood your friend’s Facebook feed requesting the he helps you farm a plot of land or purchase a pig for your farm. And this is the reality that must be faced now – your friends and your children have greater contact with American English online than they do to the Welsh of your local community. How many online games are available through the medium of Welsh? The answer now – little! It is absolutely clear to me that it is not possible for the Welsh language to compete with English online unless
we as Welsh speakers insist that the Government acts to ensure the future of our mother tongue in the digital world. This is what must be ensured – legislation must be created to ensure that companies whose Services we use on a day to day basis is available in Welsh and that funding is available to those who create apps to do so bilingually without facing additional costs. It is very unlikely that we can rely on companies to spend their millions on translating and maintaining Welsh medium services on a voluntary basis – We must demand that they do so.
Rewards for tidy students promises SAS
STUDENTS who get out the dustpan and brush at the end of this year could be in line for a reward, say Student Accommodation Services (SAS). They’ll be handing out Amazon vouchers worth almost £3,000 to students who leave their houses in good condition when they leave at the end of term. SAS manager Steve Daniels said: “We have decided to run such a competition as each year we have a large number of students that leave their properties in an excellent condition and then we have those that do not. “Therefore we feel it is only right to reward students who do so and act as an incentive for those students that may not otherwise do so, to leave their property in a good condition. “We feel that this will also have a much better impact on the private sector and local residents and reduce some of the negativity that surrounds the student population as a whole – when the reality is that it is only a small proportion of students that have complaints made against them.” All SAS properties will automatically be entered, here’s how to win:·Your house should be clean and tidy throughout including front and back gardens ·All your belongings should be removed (unless you are staying on in the same house next year) ·All refuse should have been removed from inside and outside of the property – including within the refuse bins ·No damage within the property – or any damage has been reported to the SAS office and the student(s) responsible have already admitted their liability ·All keys returned to the SAS Office by the end of the tenancy ·All students up to date with rental payments “Students will be sent a full departure pack in due course detailing exactly what they should do prior to leaving most notably the cleaning requirements,” said Steve. “Staff will make nominations to the SAS Manager following the final inspections. If there are multiple properties that meet, or exceed, the above then we will draw winners out of a hat.” The winners will be announced within three weeks of the end of tenancies. There are six prizes of £300 in Amazon vouchers, four prizes of £200, and two prizes of £100.
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NUS: ‘Undemocratic body full of factions’ OUR VERDICT by Ellie Pullen and Heather Wood
by Ellie Pullen and Heather Wood FIVE Swansea University students travelled to Liverpool to participate in the NUS National Conference the between April 21-23. The elected delegates were first years Ellie Pullen, Dawood Hussein, Heather Wood and Sam Zaman who were accompanied by Robiu Salisu, current BME part-time officer who will be next years’ full-time education officer. On the first day we met with other delegates from Wales, including the NUS Wales leadership team. The conference consisted of 12 hour days with a 9am start and a 9pm finish (not for the faint hearted!). Whilst the days were long and testing, this allowed us to see how the NUS operates and also to attend fringe meetings and meet with delegates from across the UK. An important part of our role at the conference was to vote in the future leadership team
Delegates: Ellie Pullen, Dawood Hussein, Robiu Salisu, Sam Zaman, Heather Wood. and policy for the next three years. The policies varied from the obvious such as free tuition to the introduction of a full-time Trans Officer, for which the vote went to secret ballot and the motion fell. We would encourage others to get
involved with opportunities within Swansea students’ union and the NUS. Opportunities to participate further include nominating yourself for part-time officer position in the students’ union, nominations open on Thursday.
Basketball players net success
FIRST time delegates see the NUS for what it really is, an undemocratic body full of political factions. Throughout the conference various political factions did what they could to delay and disrupt proceedings if they disagreed with policy or wanted to give their candidates a platform on which to speak. They made use of the Democratic Procedures Committee’s (anything but) procedural motions which ranged from a vote of no confidence in the chair to challenging the chair’s authority in decision making. Many hours were lost either debating the position of motions in the agenda or recounting votes. As the NUS does not use electronic voting, delegates vote by raising their voting card in the air, leaving it to the chair’s discretion to decide to outcome. This was frequently
Don’t miss the Battle of the Bands The Live Music Society is holding their annual Battle of the Bands on Thursday, May 14 at Sin City. Six bands will be playing on the night: Groove Juice, Atlas, Cadacus, SWNS, Handd and Five Random Words, all of which consist of Swansea University students who are part
From left to right, Emanuil, Myat, Rosie, Junio, Nab, Aj, Thales. by Akosua Darko
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk THE Easter basketball tournament was a success. The event was hosted by Jordon Blake to get fans of the game to come together and play in a tournament for fun. However, the winners got a basketball T. shirt and a month’s free premium Spotify as well as a reputation that they are the best team in Swansea. A lot of teams turned up to participate, which made the tournament even more exciting. The music by DJ Dubbs was good and relaxing, the commentators did a great job encouraging teams to play to their best and good sportsmanship. Some players stood out on the day though, they gave some great shots. They were: Jordon and Tyree on team one; Brenna on team six, Richard and Nathan on team six and Nab (the top scorer) on team 10. Team 10,3,9,1,5,8,6 and 7 made it to the quarter finals. Team 10, 1, 5 and 6 won their matches and progressed to the semi-final. Team 1 and 10 had a rivalry going on as both teams met in the final in December and team 1 just clinched it, so it looked likely that these two teams would meet again in the finals. However team 6 with one of my favourite team outfits of the day, pink t-shirts and pink headbands with shorts and trainers, proved
that white boys and girl could play (they had one black member on their team but, he was on the sides for some of the game and the semi final match) as they beat the dream team of team one. The game between these two teams showed some impressive basketball play. Team 5 and 10 also played hard to win a place in the final, team 10 eyeing a win that they felt they deserved the last time, used that resolve to beat team 5 in the semi-final. All the players in each team were given their best game and in the end team 10 came out on top. After exciting games it finally came down to the finale. It was pink (team 6) versus black (team 10) Team 6 couldn’t keep the determined team 10 at bay and, in the end team 10 took the title of Swansea Easter Basketball tournament champions from goals by Emanuil and Nab. The winning score was 4-1. The winning teams smiles in their picture show, they were happy and proud of that. The host also had some last words. Jordon said: “I’m happy with the turnout and it’s a shame we didn’t have enough time for the dunk contest or the 3- point contest but it’s only the second tournament I’ve organized, so the aim will be to improve and make each tournament more competitive and better than the last, however the main goal of the tournaments is to bring everyone who loves basketball in one place, so we can do what we enjoy and meet new people through doing so.”
disputed with manual counts taking place, wasting vast amounts of time. The noisy environment of the conference floor and the long hours spent in conference made it difficult for those with access arrangements to fully participate in the conference. Personal attacks and allegations were made against some delegates on social media, resulting in some removing themselves from twitter and the conference. The long hours spent in conference meant that come 7pm many delegates had left out of frustration or sheer exhaustion leaving a minority to vote on policies. Whilst the NUS prides itself on political participation and democracy only the 1000 members who attend the conference are able to vote for the leadership of the organisation, just 0.014% of the 7 million students it claims to represent.
of the Live Music Society. Each band will be playing for 20-25 minutes and it’s only £1 entry, which gets students into Sin Savers for free. As was the case last year, the winners of the battle will be playing at Summer Ball.
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Swansea rack up the points – and the quickest red card in quidditch by Shannon Heal
waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk THE Seven Swans - Swansea’s Quidditch team - attended not only their first game this weekend but their first ever tournament. Whiteknight’s the Third is held at Reading University, and brings together Quidditch teams from all over the United Kingdom. Teams from England included The London Unspeakables, Southampton Quidditch Club 2 (who just won the British Cup) and The Brizzlepuffs. From Wales there was not only Swansea but Bangor, a widely recognised team of excellent skill and a formidable reputation. The Seven Swans first game was against the hosts, The Reading Rocs, and saw Swansea gain a few fans and the tournament a talking point. The game had barely begun when one of our players, Henry Kirby, unfortunately didn’t realise that sliding into try and catch the quaffle on brooms up (the equivalent of kick off in football) would be considered an aggressive play and received a yellow card. So the first card of the tournament went to Swansea but our reputation came from what followed. Henry unfortunately went for a tackle against a Reading chaser who turned last minute, meaning that Henry placed an illegal tackle from behind and gained himself another yellow card, so an instant red. Within less than three minutes of play Swansea had lost a player, but the spectators
Swansea players Ed and Kitty in action during the tournament. seemed to love it. Henry received a loud cheer as he exited the pitch and all weekend his fast send off - which some think was the fastest ever in UK Quidditch history - was talked about. Injury is something all new teams dread heading to a tournament, with Quidditch being a full contact sport that normally breaks new teams mentally and physically, with broken bones expected for any new players. However, The Swansea Seven Swans escaped fairly well with only a few scrapes and bruises. I myself have one the shape of a football boot on my calf thanks to a crazy crash with a nacho libre snitch - and only two more serious injuries. Our fantastic snitch Caroline Norris, who caught two snitches out of our five games, suffered a corneal
abrasion and Ciaran Caple-Williams, one of our fantastic beaters, suffered a mild concussion after colliding with a tree trunk (which was super close to the edge of the pitch) and suffering an unavoidable kick to the head from one of the London Unspeakables. Our lack of injuries was noticed, and with other captains praising how well we all played. Another unexpected part of the weekend was how well we did. It’s not rare for a new team, even after a few games at tournaments and matches, to lose by 600 plus points. Yet The Seven Swans managed to fight on, with some fantastic goals from Ed Brett, Troy Kelly-Weekes, Kitty Purcell, Tom Heal, Henry Kirby (who thankfully didn’t get another card after our first game) and Calum Leoroyd who all
ensured that the Swans results were nowhere near what was expected. Our first match against Reading had our worst score, losing 200- 50, although we did catch the snitch. The second game against Chester Chasers ended 160- 30, Leicester Thestrals saw our difference reduce even further with a score of 100-50 and another snitch catch by the Swans. The battle for the Pink Vampire (the smaller cup of the tournament) against the London Unspeakables had a score of 170-10, but the Unspeakables are recognised to be within the top five UK teams and we were applauded for how well we played, especially after the exhausting first day, injuries galore and a low number of girl players, which reduced our ability to sub - as Quidditch is a gender balanced sport, where all genders are given equal opportunities to play. Norwich Nifflers was our last game. Our short numbers and injures could have meant we had to forfeit the match, but thankfully the Nifflers were in a similar situation and Leicester happily volunteered to have a few members adopted into each team so we could play. It was a fantastic match, with some truly great plays by the beater and chaser team and a sneaky snitch catch by Caroline that ended the Swans first ever tournament with a victory of 7030! After a quick pitch invasion to lift Caroline in the air, and the customary thanking the other team for the game the Swans were running to the station for our coach home after a fantastic weekend.
Sparathon raises cash for Cancer Research Fiteni said: “The guys were by Laura Fiteni relentless. Everyone’s attitude waterfrontnews@swansea-union.co.uk and effort has been outstanding and the money we were able to SWANSEA University Tae raise as a consequence totally Kwon Do and Kickboxing surpassed our original target.” Clubs arranged a three hour However as with all martial ‘sparathon’ in aid of Cancer arts, there was a strong element Research UK last month. of competition. At the top of With nearly 20 competitors the table were Matthew Evans, sparring across three hours Lance Jones and Martin Lee who the clubs managed to raise each accumulated over 60 fights a combined total of £445 in and spent more than 90 minutes sponsorship and in entrant and sparring! spectator fees. “It’s a great way for two different The aim of the day was to martial arts to learn from one have at least two sparrers another as well. Although the exchanges kicks and punches styles are similar, Kickboxers tend on the mats at any given time to be better boxers where as Tae throughout the duration of the Kwon Do-ers tend to be better Sparathon, however, spurred on with their legs. I know a couple of by the charitable cause, there people learnt to keep their guard were nearly always at least 10 up today!” said Laura. volunteers on the mats. The two captains met with a It was a very physical challenge manager from Cancer Research and one that tested the fitness Swansea branch to donate the and stamina of the competitors money that was raised and look involved. forward to working with the Tae Kwon Do Captain Laura charity in future.
Through the keyhole at Bay Campus
THE Waterfront has been given an exclusive first glimpse of the new student accommodation at the Bay Campus. The college style buildings include modern bright interiors and are built surrounding a central courtyard where students will be able to enjoy outdoor space. With the beach right on the doorstep, residents will be able to boast a seaside location not enjoyed by many other halls. Both returning and new students will be able to take advantage of the new facilities in September which comprise of en-suites, shared flats ranging from 4 – 11 bed units, as well as a number of one and two bed flats. There will also be a quota of rooms adapted for wheelchair users and mobility, visually and/or hearing impaired students. Residential Services are currently taking applications for the new residences at the Bay Campus, which have been designed to offer students a fantastic living experience. Interested students can visit the Accommodation website to make applications online now.
Be Zambitious with Charlie IN July, I’ll be swapping fish and chips for cassava fritters, working with Discovery Swansea and the Siavonga Nutrition Group, which aims to support people living in poverty in both Swansea and Siavonga, writes Charlie Trotman. I’ll be gaining an insight into the African way of life, an experience which I know will shape my future, as well as the future of everybody involved in the project. We look forward to bringing a taste of the Zambian way of life to Swansea University students, with all sorts of activities. Be on safari for our upcoming events around the university where we’ll put the fun in fundraising by hosting events such as cake sales at Swansea Marina, challenges such as living on only £1 a day for 5 days and club nights where you’ll dance off the cakes. I can’t wait to share how to be ‘Zambitious’ with students through my photography and look forward to seeing you all at the next fundraiser! To donate, please visit http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ DiscoverySiavonga2015.
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4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
with hilary webb
features
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My marathon journey to
IKE many stories of its kind, my marathon journey began with an illness crippling my family. Last spring my father was diagnosed with what he calls the most ‘feminine of cancers’, breast cancer. This was already a difficult time as my elderly great aunt moved into palliative care for the same cancer. My aunt, sadly, would go on to die on my 19th birthday the following August. Not really knowing how to deal with the news, I got very drunk with my friends in London and fell down a couple of flights of London Underground stairs, spraining an ankle and badly bruising and scraping the other leg. A very mature response to the news, as you can tell. It was while eating my McDonalds and nursing my legs on the train home that night that I drunkenly slurred to a friend that my legs were fine and that ‘I could run a marathon with these legs!’ And so, the seed was planted in my mind. A day or two later around 2am I submitted an application for a Golden Bond place in the London Marathon for the charity Worldwide Cancer Research. The following day when I was in the car on my way to visit my aunt I was listening to a voice mail, that turned out to be a woman from Worldwide Cancer Research offering me a place to run for their London Marathon team in April 2015. My first reaction was ‘oops’. While I’ve taken part in Race For Life years before, I was not a runner, in fact at this time I didn’t even own a pair of trainers.
blaring Chariots of Fire and Eye of the Tiger to give us that little extra push. My favourite moment from the crowds had to be as a priest flicked Holy Water on runners as we went past a church. Along side me there was suddenly a runner with a papier-mâché Nigel Farage head, at which point the priest flicked the Holy Water over him and cried ‘you really need it!’ Without those crowds and the marshals the London Marathon would be nothing, the passion of the crowds and dedication of the volunteers seriously restored some of my faith in humanity. When you forget about the wars and destruction of the planet and all that for a second, and look at the crowds at the London Marathon, humans are pretty cool.
Disgusting food
Heart attack Once a pair of trainers had been purchased I reluctantly prepared myself for my first run. While it was technically a two mile run, I distinctly remember stopping because I thought I was having a heart attack after 0.2 of a mile. There was quite a lot of work to be done then. Luckily this first run was on 26 April 2014, exactly a year until the Virgin Money London Marathon 2015, so I had plenty of time to sort it out. My fairly vague plan for the year was to spend six months learning how to run and getting myself fit and then to spend the next six months training for the marathon. The next 12 months consisted of shin splits, physios, sports massages, running around a dark, stormy Swansea Bay, hurting myself running down hills in my hometown Brentwood, spending my evenings icing my legs with bags of peas, and a to top it all off, a two month drinking ban. It was a complete lifestyle change. In February 2015 I ignored signs of my body telling me to have a break and pushed myself a little too hard, causing me to have to take two weeks off from running, which was not ideal so close
the marathon. The year completely flew by, and suddenly I found myself at the top of Greenwich hill with over 35,000 other runners, every single one of whom looked more prepared than me. When the gun went, the sudden surge shocked me, as I’d been told to expect a half an hour wait until I crossed the line, so I quickly hopped on one leg to take off my warm throw-away clothes. Typically once I’d dumped my clothes the surge stopped and so I was waiting in the cold for the next half an hour. Thankfully the atmosphere was so awesome I couldn’t spend too much time dwelling on the cold. Around me were all sorts of people from all over the world, and the thing most of us were wondering was the question: ‘why was this ever a good idea?” I’d been advised by a friend who had competed in years before to have my name printed on my shirt, I wasn’t really too sure why but about 10 metres over the start line I soon realised when I heard the first, of what must have been hundreds, “go Hilary go!” For the entire 26.2 miles complete
strangers as well as my wonderful support team called every name they could see. It was amazing. The first half of the marathon was fantastic, there was no way I could walk after a couple of miles like I’d taken to doing in training, for anytime anyone slowed or looked like they were going to walk the enormous crowds would scream their name until they were running at top speed again.
Smashed it! It’s thanks to the crowds that I ran the first 7.5 miles without stopping and most of the first half, something I’d only nearly achieved while training. In fact I smashed the first half in less than two and a half hours. There were a few remarks from the crowds that weren’t quite as welcome, such as ‘keep up!’ and ‘you’re almost there!’ at mile 14. For the most part, though, the comments were hilarious and seriously motivating, ranging from “see Hilary, I told you this would be fun!” and a young boy yelling ‘If you run a bit faster you’ll win!” As well as cheering many spectators, often local pubs were
What was also awesome was that so many of the spectators were giving us runners food, while a lot had sweets and chocolate, the thought of which made me want to be sick, some were giving out bananas and orange slices, which really pulled me up when I was at my worst. However, the orange Lucozade gels given out by the marathon marshals were by far the most disgusting thing I have ever eaten, and I’ve eaten some disgusting foods in my time! At mile 12 I think I began hallucinating because I swear Daniel Radcliffe was smiling at me yelling ‘you can do it Hilary!’ before Tony Robinson handed me a water bottle. Quite unlikely I expect. Low points of the marathon included being over taken by Big Bird, the moment I was almost certain I was in possession of one less toenail, and the wall. While I didn’t run smack bang into a wall, I felt mine was more like the Great Wall of China. Where crowds were less present on the Isle of Dogs, miles 17 – 21 were seriously hard, all I wanted to do was sit down. I knew that I’d got over the wall when I suddenly realised I could get through in under six hours and began to sprint. Running down Embankment and the mall while most were still walking was pretty amazing, as the crowds yelled ‘strong finish Hils!” However, the mall is a damn sight longer that I had anticipated, I thought it was never going to end, and I came through in six hours and 13 seconds. For me, this was much faster than I anticipated, especially when my only goal that day was to finish. Though I’m not sure if I want to put myself through it again, definitely not any time soon, it was one of the best and most rewarding things I have ever done, so far in my life. I would recommend it to anyone, just as long as they’re aware of how much the training, let alone the
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
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w it h na ne t t e t u r k s o n & C Rysta l r o se
fashion
Men in pigtails ? Knot on your life! I
was once asked by a fellow ‘academic’ whether I knew “what is always at the end of a pony tail?” Then, following my expression of pure bewilderment and confusion, he turned to me and said “an a***hole”, writes Tom Plumbly. Now of course at the time being quite young and utterly scared of this fellow ‘academic’s’ lack of mental stability, I simply chuckled and went about my day. However, looking back on it, he wasn’t completely wrong. Rogueish appeal? Nine times out of 10 any man wearing his hair up in any form is, for a lack of a better word…a berk. Just like anyone with a goatee, you know has probably spent a bit too much time in the mirror. Yet, this does not mean it cannot be pulled off with roguish arrogance or charismatic repartee. Indeed one of my closest friends believes he is king of this charismatic jousting, and even refers to himself as “The Rogue” after he has had
Tom Plumbly, a fourth year American Studies student, on why fullygrown men in top-knots is never a good idea. one too many lemonades and despite the fact I die a little inside every time we go out, he does carry it off. Phallic symbol Nevertheless all of my fervour towards the ponytail was soon to be subsided by the creation of the fashion abomination that is called the Top-Knot (a shaved back and side with hair tied up at the top). In my last article I brought attention to the fact that unless you were a cowboy,
same colour double denim is just a No! And in the same vain unless you are part of the Samurai Society, don’t even think about it. The only benefit of this trend is that we, the public, can see this phallic symbol protruding from your head from far off and thus have enough time to plan on how to avoid you. I would of course give you my top tips on how to pull off a Top-Knot, but unfortunately I only have one, cut it off. The problem is unlike with the pony tail or the man bun, there is no way to pull the Top-Knot off. With long hair tied up you can have full beard and look rugged with it tied a bit loose, or have it neatly tied back and look sophisticated. Whilst with the Top-Knot it has come to the stage where there is no nouveau factor, you have simply followed the crowd and so by definition it is no longer hipster, there is only one look you are pulling off and that is pre-pubescent Samurai. The worst case still are the big men with
top knots. Not only is it impractical for the gym but you look even more stupid. It does not sharpen the edges of your face, it just makes your head look fatter. I suppose it comes down to Bond vs Bieber, if one day you are thinking about getting a one, just ask yourself who is more likely to get a Top-Knot and who would you rather be? Get scissor happy In any case vigilantism in response to this fashion hate crime is on the rise, as can be seen by the many viral videos on YouTube, in which people who can be only identified as Super Heroes are taking it upon themselves to cut off Top-Knots from the wrong doers’ heads. I am not one to recommend taking justice into your own hands, but I would recommend that you save yourself the embarrassment, get a short back and sides and just get on with your life, safe in the knowledge that you did the right thing.
Top-Knots: who can wear one? ???
YES
YES Photo: Cyndy Sims Parr
Photo: Roger Deetz Photo: Kenji Ross
YES Photo: Wonderlane
DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT !
YES Photo: Deb Gray
front row
Sink’s Spring/Summer Series ‘15 Sin City, Throughout May and June
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Rise Presents: Utah Jazz and BCEE Sin City, Sat 16 May
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careers 30
music 29
games 28
eurovision 27
food 25
travel 24
film 23
culture 22
w it h Ben R ees
front row 19
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fashion 16
features 114-15
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
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Rise return with two of Spearhead Records’ finest, following their shows with Dimension, Fred V & Grafix and Kove. Get your tickets from www.sincityclub.co.uk!
Dub Pistols Live at Sin City Sin City, Saturday 9 May
We’re into the final term of this academic year, and the team at Sink look to gear you up for the warm weather with their Spring/Summer series of parties at Sin City. With a big focus on party vibes, the team get back to their roots and bring down new and exciting talent throughout May and June. On the final Bank Holiday weekend of May, the team bring you Mele (pictured, above) – a Liverpool-born producer capable of stringing together carnival-style mixes and bassy Grime beats. A key feature on BBC Radio 1 and 1 Xtra alike, Mele holds a residency on Diplo’s ‘Diplo & Friends’ Saturday night show, as well as on Annie Mac’s AMP Tour shows. Mele thrives on high octane, party-driven dance music, that blends together everything from Hip-Hop and Grime, to House, Techno, Garage and even Samba beats, to create something purely Summery. His ‘Mele Vanele’ beat tapes have caught the attention of Dance’s elite selectors, and his latest track, ‘Ambience’, is forthcoming on Redlight’s Lobster Boy imprint. The track featured in pretty much every set at Annie Mac’s massively successful Lost & Found Festival in Malta, with everyone from Jackmaster and Heidi, to Rodigan and Redlight giving it a spin. Their penultimate show features up-and-comer DJ Barely Legal (pictured, below), who’s now on the radar through her shows at Fabric, her recently launched label, and her mixes for 1 Xtra and Radio 1. Going from Jungle to Garage, then to Hip-Hop and Techno, her style is becoming the new way – with BPMs not limiting the possibilities. They end the series at Summer Ball, hosting their Sunken Ship stage on the field at the Abbey Meadow, with the one and only David Rodigan headlining. In between, the team will go back to their roots, hosting regular parties in Sin City with the advantage of Sin’s amazing terrace, to take in the summer vibes. All the information can be found through the event page, on their Facebook fan page, and all your tickets as usual go through www. swansea-union.co.uk
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On Saturday 9 May, Dub Pistols play live at Sin City. They bring together Ska and D&B for pure party music. Check the videos on the event page, and grab your tickets from www.sincityclub.co.uk
Swansea Summer Ball #SSB15 Abbey Meadow, 15 June
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If you’ve not got your tickets yet, what are you waiting for?! It’s the end of year celebration like no other, with performances from Rae Morris, The Hoosiers, Lethal Bizzle, Saint Raymond, David Rodigan MBE, Horse Meat Disco, Fono, Sunset Sons and even more on the day. Get them from www.swanseasummerball.com
Gŵyl Pili Pala Festival Uplands, 15-16 May
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Gŵyl Pili Pala Festival will return to the Uplands of Swansea for a third year on 15 and 16 May with the dual purpose of bolstering the Swansea music scene by showcasing some of the best emerging acts in Wales, and raising money for the Welsh Centre for Action on Dependency and Addiction. The two-day festival will take place at venues including The Garage, Mozarts and St James Church. The line-up hails from Carmarthen to Cardiff and include Anguz, Cara Pearce, Delyth Mclean, HOMES, Inscape, Joe Bayliss, Nia Ann, PARCS, Sarah Passmore, Sweet Benfica, My Name Is Ian, The States, Tree of Wolves, with many more bands yet to be announced. On the Saturday, the free, all-age BBC Horizons/ Gorwelion 2015 stage will feature festival veterans Cut Ribbons and Delyth Mclean, and welcome Violet Skies and MELLT. Other bands on the festival line-up include Clockwork Radio, Right Hand Left Hand, We’re No Heroes, Broken Fires, The Effect, Little Arrow. Several music and writing workshops will also take place over both days at St James Church, which will be free and open to all. Advanced tickets are on sale at See Tickets and WeGotTickets and will be £12 for an all-venue pass. A return coach and ticket package for both days from Cardiff is available for £30. For more information visit www.pilipala.org or www.facebook.com/PiliPalaFest. •If you’d like to feature your event in the What’s On Guide, please send an email to waterfrontfrontrow@swansea-union.co.uk.
Travel To Our Campuses The opening of the Bay Campus means that there are likely to be more students than ever travelling across Swansea; to the Bay Campus; to the Singleton Park Campus; and between the campuses. Swansea University and the Students’ Union have been working hard with their partners the City and County of Swansea, Neath Port Talbot Council, and First Cymru, to ensure the best travel deals for students.
We are pleased to announce:
• 2 new bus routes to the Bay Campus • Cheaper student bus pass (Was £390, Now £300) • Extended bus timetables - buses until 2.00am Weds, Thurs, Fri, Sat* • Buses every 8 minutes during peak times
FREE
• Massive investment in cycle route between the campuses
E AN B LES C OM C Y C BAY D FR OWE BORR R CAMPUS EITHE
• Park & Ride option on Fabian Way *Trial service until Feb 2016 - continued offer dependant on usage.
Cycling Cycling is a great, sustainable way to travel to either campus. There are numerous dedicated cycle routes that serve Swansea Bay and these can be viewed on the handy www.cycleswanseabay.org website. The Bay and Park Campuses are joined by the red ‘Central Line’ route, with an estimated travel time of 27 minutes.
If you have to drive… As has been longstanding University policy, there will be no parking for students on either campus. At the Bay Campus you can use the Park & Ride on Fabian Way. It costs £4.00 to park and ‘ride’ the bus back to campus, however many people are in the car (up to 5). This is £2.50 to park and £1.50 for the bus. At the Park Campus you can park on the Recreation Ground. It costs £3.50 per day. Students with disabilities will be able to park on campus - please visit the website for full details.
Where do I park my bike? What does the cycle route look like? Where exactly is the Park & Ride? Answers to these questions and more online at: www.swansea.ac.uk/sustainability/travel
Detailed route and bus stop maps available online at www.swansea.ac.uk/sustainability/travel
Bus Travel
DON’T WANT TO BUY A PASS?
TIMETABLES Buses will run from 06.30-23.30 weekdays during term-time. There will be a bus every 8 minutes during peak times. Buses will run until 02.00 on Weds, Thurs, Fri & Sat nights*. Full timetables will be available at www.firstgroup.com
Day ticket
£4.20
Week ticket
£19.00
Carnet of 6 x day tickets
£21.00
After 19.00 single
£1.50
WHERE TO BUY:
*Trial service until Feb 2016 - continued offer dependant on usage.
Can be purchased from the Travel Shop in Fulton House or via the First Cymru ‘mTickets’ app - download from Google Play or App Store.
BUS PASSES Swansea University and the Students’ Union have negotiated with First Cymru to have a new bus pass for the ‘Swansea City’ area. This means that an academic year bus pass for students travelling within Swansea and between the campuses will cost just £300 in 2015-16 (£90 cheaper than in 2014-15!) Price 2014-15
Swansea City Zone 2015-16
SAVING
Term 1 only
£180
£130
£50
Term 2 only
£150
£130
£20
£90
£80
£10
Summer Holiday
£130
£120
£10
Academic Year
£390
£300
£90
Full Year
£450
£350
£100
Term 3 only
Swansea City Zone - student bus pass allows unlimited bus travel within this zone
Detailed route and bus stop maps available online at www.swansea.ac.uk/sustainability/travel
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
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w it h EM MA JAM ES
culture
Lesson of Welsh struggle T
HE new play, ‘Pan Oedd y Fyd yn Fach’, will bring historical events to life this June in the Taliesin, writes Emma James. The play translates into ‘When the World Was Small’ and highlights the era of the miners’ strikes in Wales, 1984. The play explores the tense period that the miners suffered as a result of not having enough money to provide food for their families. Written by Sian Summers, this performance will tackle issues such as loyalty and betrayal, focussing on one group of boys’ attempt to support the strike that turns violent. Although this is a great opportunity for Welsh speakers to watch a fantastic play right on campus, there is also an opportunity for non-Welsh speakers to enjoy the performance. As a result of the Taliesin teaming up with the Welsh Nation’s Theatre Company, the audience can download the app ‘SIBRWD’ and enjoy the play with an English
Performance / Live Stream May
Thurs 7 Rough Diamonds – Swansea Uni Creative writing students Fri 8 Gladiator – an uplifting play about a young lad who finds an old bicycle of a champion. Thurs 14, 7pm NTLive Screening – Man and Superman (12A*) Fri 15 To Kill a Machine – a new play about the story of Alan Turing Sun 17 Seckou Keita: 22 Strings – the brilliant kora player supported by Gwyneth Glyn Fri 22 ENO Screening –The Pirates of Penzance (12A*) Sun 24 Kyle Eastwood – returns with his brilliant band. Thurs 28 Swansea City Opera – Faust Fri 29 May NPT College – Lift Sun 31 Monsieur Doumani – a dynamic trio play Cypriot music.
CONFLICT: The play follows the struggle of miners caught up in the 1984 strikes. synopsis. This is also a great opportunity for those students that are currently learning Welsh. The show starts at 7:30pm on the 5th and 6th of June. The event costs £8 for all full-time students.
If you would like more information about the SIBRWD app visit: www. sibrwd.com Visit www.taliesinartscentre.com for more information on the event and to purchase tickets online.
Oscar-winner’s dark tale takes flight
B
irdman was quite possibly one of the most anticipated films to watch this year, after winning several awards at this year’s Oscars. I have been eager to see if the film was as good as everyone has portrayed it to be, writes Emma James. Starring the insanely talented Michael Keaton, this film demonstrated ‘Hollywood life’ in a dark and twisted way. Keaton plays an ex-A list actor, Riggan, who had previously been famous for his role in one of the greatest superhero films of his time, ‘Birdman’. Riggan is haunted by his past character as he continuously gets criticised for the decisions in his life. The theme of the film has a lot to do with mental illness, specifically depression. Although the film has been categorised as a dark comedy, it was
Taliesin Listings
June
Fri 5 & Sat 6 Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru Pan Oedd Y Byd Yn Fach – a play about the miners’ strike of 1984 Wed 10, 7.15pm ROH Live Screening La Bohème (12A*) Thurs 11 & Fri 12, Unknown Pleasures #8: Making Belief – student of Trinity St David University Thurs 18 WNO Chorus Sat 27 Field Music – the Mercury Prize shortlisted band plus Spencer Segelov.
Cinema May
Tues 5 Love is Strange (15) Wed 6 5pm & 7.30pm Still Alice (12A) Mon 11, 7.30pm and Tues 12 May 4.30pm and 7.30pm The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (PG) Wed 13 Pelo Malo/Bad Hair (15) Sat 16 The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (PG) Tues 26 The Good Lie (12A) Wed 27 4.30pm and 7.30pm Suite Française (15)
ALTER EGO: Film legend Riggan (Michael Keaton) is haunted by his superhero. still a lot darker than I had originally anticipated, and a lot less comical. A lot of famous faces appear in this film, including Naomi Watts, Zach Galifianakis and Emma Stone. Stone plays Riggan’s drug addict daughter and I believe it was one of her best on-screen performances so far. The director, Alejandro G. Inarritu, captured the original plot in a fascinating and clever way. The majority of the production was filmed with a single shot. The parts that were obviously not filmed in one continuous shot were the scenes that had visual effects, usually when ‘Birdman’ appeared. I found the ending to be extremely intriguing, particularly because many films these days have a very strong plot but a very poor ending. The ending leaves a lot to the
June
imagination but also ties in the theme of mental illness and its impact on people. It shows that even through the darkest times, there is light at the end of the road. This is a film that I would certainly recommend seeing.
Mon 1 The Face of an Angel (15) Tues 2 The Water Diviner (15) Wed 3 A Little Chaos (12A) Mon 8 Blade Runner: The Final Cut (15) Tues 9 Samba (cert tbc) Mon 15 & Tues 16 Far from the Madding Crowd (12A) Mon 29 Dark Horse (PG)
Writers wanted
Ceri Richards Gallery
Are you interested in writing? The culture page is looking for all sorts of writers, whether you want to review a book or performance, or even advertise an upcoming event. To send work or to find out more contact: waterfrontculture@swanseaunion.co.uk
Continuing until Saturday 16 May The Watercolour Society of Wales and France L’art de l’eau The art of water Celfyddyd dˆwr Friday 22 May – Saturday 4 July Michelle Scragg, Caroline Rees, Katie Allen.
societies 31
careers 30
music 29
games 28
eurovision 27
food 25
travel 24
film 23
culture 22
front row 19
with Joshua vaughan
fashion 16
features 114-15
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4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
film
To be read in a dark brown voice...
A
PRIL was the month of movie trailers, writes Joshua Vaughan. It all started with a Star Wars: The Force Awakens masterpiece, then continued with a Batman v Superman teaser and finished up with a new Fantastic Four reveal. If you’re a film fan, get pumped now. . .
The Fan-Boys Awaken . . . Star Wars Celebration Week brought fans of the hit film series many surprises and various more things to get excited about. The trailer was certainly one of them; it dropped online on the 16th, and sent fans into pandemonium. The official trailer already has around 45 million views on the Star Wars YouTube page, and views continue to grow daily. The trailer brings that nostalgic feel which the prequels had missed. The feeling of familiarity is one which the trailer intensely offers; it makes you believe that the franchise of Star Wars is officially home. The background music is powerful and effective; it oozes Star Wars-ness, and leaves those emotionally connected to the series covered with goose bumps. The use of TIE-fighters, the action with the Millennium Falcon and beauty of the crashed Star Destroyer invests you into this world which JJ Abrams has created. The ending scene of Chewie and Han Solo not only ties the trailer together, but ultimately leaves you begging for more. As a Star Wars fan, it was hard to stop myself from being moved to tears. This looks like the film which Star Wars fanatics have been waiting for ever since Episode VI. After the disappointment of the prequels, the success of the Star Trek films and the purchase of Star Wars by Disney, fans deserved a revitalised and re-imagined Star Wars. It looks like they will finally have their wish come
true come 18 December, 2015.
Do You Bleed? You Will . . . Within 24 hours of the online release of the new Star Wars trailer, Warner Bros. released the trailer for 2016’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Despite the trailer being leaked online beforehand, the footage was too shaky and distorted to make too much out of it. That problem was solved soon afterwards. The real trailer was soon released, in all of its 1080p glory, and offered a completely different excitement to that of Star Wars. Although the Star Wars trailer was a feel-good, happygo-lucky kind of nostalgia-fest, it was evident that the heart-pounding thriller of a trailer in Batman v Superman be the perfect combatant to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the upcoming Civil War movie. The first thing you feel when you watch this trailer is that it leads straight from the first DC film, Man of Steel (2013). Obviously there would be repercussions for levelling half of Metropolis, and the opening audio-montage of the trailer, and a snarling Ben Affleck (Batman)
Film Reviews
show that Superman has hit some turbulence. The trailer gives that gritty, DC Comicsmovie feel, which makes hardcore fans feel like punching a villain or two. The trailer gives you an honest sense of how the film may play out, with a dark and brooding Batman and a god-like, untouchable (so we think) Superman. The trailer offers a look at the hulking Ben Affleck, which was an issue for many fans, and really lets you know that the “v” in Batman v Superman isn’t just for show. This is real, this is coming, and this is an actual fight between Batman and Superman. Epic, right?
first news of the 2015 film was not great news to many fans of the comic books, and they had reason to be worried. The casting of the “Fantastic Four Babies”, as they were called, was not the only issue on fan’s minds. The youthful casting list was seen as a horrible idea, and many bashed the film before the first trailer even appeared. The first trailer came along, and nothing really changed. There was no real sign of the character “the Thing”, and did not provide anything to get the fans fired up. This second trailer was needed to quell the storm (pun also intended). It seems like it has. The new-look Thing, when compared to the 2005 version, is more believable and a look which fits the tones of the trailer; naturally gritty and realistically futuristic. The majority of the public response to this re-imagined Thing, and the trailer itself, has been nothing but positive so far. The doubters that still exist may just have to wait until the film’s release on August 7.
A Storm Brewing . . . The movie anticipation seemed to be on a descending slope after the Star Wars and Batman v Superman trailer releases. That was, however, until the newest Fantastic Four trailer was released on 19 April. The four heroes are back, and it looks like this instalment may actually stick around. It was evident that as the last Fantastic Four series was doomed (pun intended), it was only a matter of time before the franchise was rebooted. The
Get Hard While the central plot doesn’t feel like much cop. It’s a laugh riot. ‘You were nervous the first time you did Karaoke!’ Will Ferrell screams into a man’s crotch, locking up the tone for the rest of the film. After a slew of movies like The Theory Of Everything which sentenced you to get inside the mind of a genius, it’s time to put your brain in solitary confinement and handcuff yourself to Get Hard. Resembling a demented Jeremy Clarkson, deprived of an 8oz steak, Ferrell stars as James King, a pompous millionaire, given 30 days to prepare himself for prison life. Enter Kevin Hart as Darnell, a car washer who uses King’s irrational fear of minorities to train him. What follows is a series of cartoonish sketches, one featuring a very angry baboon. This film has raised a lot of controversy around the
By Charlie Trotman depiction of race and sexuality that defines Ferrell’s character. The main plot does admittedly rely on King’s fear of being raped in prison, specifically by racial minorities, which has left some viewers sentencing it to the bargain bin. However, Hart’s depiction of Darnell, a struggling black American serves as a positive depiction and as an actor he often outshines Ferrell, who often comes across as too ignorant to be taken seriously. Along with angry baboons, the film features a great number of one-liners and ‘Nazi titties’ which left the audience howling with laughter. While it doesn’t have as many laughs per minute as Anchorman, Get Hard is another film that expands upon cult of Ferrell. It’s Hart I’m more excited to see more of and I hope this is only the first term in a long stretch of comedies.
Would you like to review a film? if so, get in touch on waterfrontfilm@swansea-union.co.uk
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
24
STUDENT JOURNEYS
travel Left, view of Parliament Square from the double-decker bus. Above, Abbey Road album cover recreation, Below, Helen enjoying a Mr Whippy in Hyde Park.
My London trip a dream come true L
ONDON is a magic city. Its culture, history and sights are something I have always daydreamed about. Growing up in a small city in North Carolina, I never thought that travelling abroad would be an option for me. But Swansea has given me the opportunity to travel overseas 3,700 miles away from home and witness first-hand cities and places I have never thought I’d get to see, writes exchange student Helen Shuping. One of the many differences between my university back home and Swansea is the Easter break. Back in the U.S. university students only get a meagre one week vacation. This never left me much time for traveling of any kind. So of course I was elated to discover that my spring break at Swansea would be three weeks long. After dauntless hours planning and scheduling, my friend Carly, her family and I planned our very first trip of the break to none other than London.
Bumpy bus ride Now I love a five-hour long, bumpy bus ride early in the morning as much as the next girl, so getting to London from Swansea was tedious. But waking up from my short-lived nap to the view of the bustling city, it didn’t matter. The first thing I admired about London is the people. There are people everywhere, no matter the time or day. I love to people watch, especially in a place I’m not used to. Clothing stores, coffee shops and restaurants lined every street and alleyway in London and I couldn’t help but to notice the diversity. It’s exciting, there’s buzz and vitality. Everyone looked like they knew what they were doing. Whether they were simply chatting with friends over coffee or running down a cab, they seemed to have a purpose, and my only
purpose was to happily soak it all in. We took our first steps in London scooting out of Victoria Coach station and down to the underground, another one of my favorite parts of the city. Back home, my only form of transportation was my 1996, run-down Chevy, and public transport is not nearly as accessible. So I much prefer the speed and excitement of the underground. Four full days were set out for us in the city. But that wasn’t even enough to see it all. But we did the main tourist attractions. First stop of course being Big Ben and Parliament Square. Emerging from the Westminster tube station that next morning the sun blinded me but I was greeted at the top of the stairs by a sea of selfie sticks. Hundreds of people crowded the narrow pavement, all wanting a picture with the clock. I had to partake as well, of course. After Parliament Square, we made our way to a double-decker bus tour. Probably every London native’s most exasperating sight, but boy did we love it. We ran directly to the top floor to get the best view. The red machine took us to all the major tourist spots, Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Buckingham Palace (the
Queen was not home to our dismay), Tower Bridge and many more. One of our last stops that day was the Millennium Bridge. Being avid Harry Potter fans my friend and I were eager to step onto this one. I must admit, it was a little cooler on film being unraveled by death eaters, but I was still happy to cross it off my list of things to see. Our second day in London was a day for music. London has been a central hub for some of the most influential people in music history. We began with a walking Rock and Roll tour. About 20 of us led by a witty tour guide made our way through the city, stopping at sites such as the club where the Jimmy Hendrix Experience performed for the first time, Soho, China Town, the audition location for the Rolling Stones and of course, 3 Saville Road, the building where The Beatles performed for the final time together, which unfortunately has now become an Abercrombie Kids. While trying to take a picture of the building I couldn’t help but be engulfed by the smell of that trademark cologne. You could still sneak a picture of the guitars the musicians played on display at the front of the store.
Abbey Road Another location we stopped at was Trident studios, where some of the most infamous songs of the 1960’s and 70’s were recorded. Going down the list outside you see hits such as “Hey Jude”, “Dear Prudence” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”. Near the end was James Taylor’s, “Carolina on my mind”, which is a song about my home state of North Carolina. I had no idea that song was recorded in London and I was overjoyed to see a little piece of home so far away. Now you can’t have a music history day in London without going to Abbey
Road. It turned out trying to get a successful picture was more dangerous than we had expected. Groups of tourists all huddled on the sides of the street anxiously waiting for a break in traffic in order to walk across and recreate the album cover. Some people nearly got run over by buses and taxis. Most cars honked, but some kind Londoners waited for the tourists to finish, surely they knew what to expect turning down this road. At one point a mom ran into the middle of the road to get a picture of her kids. Three cars sped to a halt behind her, but she stayed there until she got the perfect shot. Now that’s what I call family Christmas card dedication. We were able to safely cross the street after a few minutes of waiting and captured a pretty worthy recreation. I did turn my head at the last second, but it still works. Our last two days in London were more relaxed. One day was spent at museums. Our first stop was the Tower of London. Talk about a blast from the past. Our last stop was at the Tate Modern art museum, which seemed more futuristic than modern. We ended our day at Shakespeare’s favorite pub, The Anchor, indulging in some amazing fish and chips and meat pies. I definitely understand why he liked it so much. We spent our final day in London just enjoying the weather, with a picnic in Hyde Park complete with a Mr. Whippy ice cream cone (my new favorite thing). I told myself to eat as many of them as possible before my flight home. After dreaming about going to London my whole life, the four days I was able to spend fully immersed in it was everything I could have hoped for. I return home to North Carolina in only two months and plan to get a few more trips to London in while I still can.
societies 31
careers 30
music 29
games 28
eurovision 27
food 25
travel 24
film 23
culture 22
with Sophie Berman
front row 19
25
fashion 16
features 114-15
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
food
Salads that don’t feel like punishment! With summer just around the corner, it is around this time that we all start prepping our beach bodies. This doesn’t however need to mean living off lettuce, tomatoes and tuna. Here are two of my favourite salad recipes which are low in fat, super delicious and not remotely boring, writes Sophie Berman.
Paprika chicken and couscous salad Ingredients: 1 x chicken breast Half an avocado 1 x tablespoon of coriander 3 x spring onions 6 x cherry tomatoes 1 x pre-cooked beetroot 80g x couscous Paprika Handful mixed salad leaves Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to dress Method: 1.
2. 3. 4.
Pre-heat oven or grill to around 200 °C. Rub paprika, or another seasoning of your choice, onto the chicken with a little olive oil and place in the oven or under the grill until cooked. Cook couscous according to the instructions on the packet. Chop all other ingredients and arrange them on your plate. Dress the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season to taste. Once cooked, add the couscous and paprika chicken.
Salmon niçoise salad
2.
Ingredients: 1 x salmon fillet 200g x baby new potatoes 1 x tablespoon of sundried tomatoes 1 x tablespoon of pitted black olives 1 x egg 1 x garlic clove Lettuce Lemon 100g x green beans Olive oil Method: 1.
Preheat the oven or grill to 200°C and season the salmon fillet to your taste. Place the salmon in the oven until cooked
Restaurant News Las Iguanas Castle Square, Swansea www.iguanas.co.uk
The popular restaurant chain Las Iguanas is opening in Swansea this month. Located in Castle Square, Las Iguanas serves a Latin inspired menu with favourites such as nachos, burritos and churrasco, meat which has been marinated, skewered and flame-grilled. With desserts to die for, in addition to an extensive cocktail menu, there is something for everyone. Las Iguanas, Swansea opens on 11 May.
Have you got a recipe you’d like to share? Email editor@swansea-union.co.uk
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4.
5.
to your liking. In the meantime, wash and halve the new potatoes and boil until soft. Add the green beans to the potatoes to boil for 4-5 minutes. Crisp green beans work better in this salad. In a separate saucepan, boil the egg for about 7-8 minutes. Wash your desired amount of lettuce and add to your plate. Chop sundried tomatoes and olives and add these to the lettuce. To make the dressing, crush or finely chop the garlic clove and mix in a bowl with the juice of half a lemon and a tablespoon of olive oil. Drain the potatoes and green beans and add these to the salad. Peel your hardboiled egg and chop in half. Place the salmon on top and drizzle the dressing all over.
societies 31
careers 30
music 29
games 28
eurovision 27
food 25
travel 24
film 23
culture 22
front row 19
fashion 16
with MO COMFORT
27
features 114-15
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
eurovision
WINNING POTENTIAL? (Clockwise, from left): Spain’s Edurne; Azerbaijan’s Elnur Hüseynov; Australia’s Guy Sebastian; Sweden’s Måns Zelmerlöw; Italian ‘popera’ band Il Volo; and Slovenia’s Maraaya.
Who’s hotly tipped to be champion? S
O we come to this, my last article to round off this Eurovision season, and although I won’t be able to talk about the results of Eurovision in this article (it still being a couple of weeks away) I am going to put my neck out and try to make a few predictions based on my own knowledge and some other people’s opinions. My first prediction is that I can really see Slovenia’s entry “Here For You” by married couple Maraaya storming into the left side of the scoreboard and I really see them as a dark horse to win the whole thing. I really don’t see this song finishing outside of the top five and it will be Slovenia’s best result to date. Shannon Heal, a second year Classics and English student says it is “a catchy pop song that sticks in your head and the clever usage of headphones ensures the artists are easily recognisable”. I really like the unusual use of headphones too, as we know that the artists only really get three minutes to get into the audience’s head so that they remember it when it comes to voting time. I suppose I should give a prediction for the UK’s entry as I haven’t really spoken
By Mo Comfort about it at all so far. This year the BBC have decided to send the band Electro Velvet with their song “Still In Love With You” a quirky electro-swing track, of which Mary George, a first year Medical Engineering student, said: “While the song is catchy and upbeat, I find the lyrics quite creepy and don’t approve of the message they give.” I can see where Mary is coming from but personally I don’t think it will matter too much as I don’t think some countries will understand the slightly inappropriate nature of some of the lyrics. Within the Eurovision community there are a couple of favourites to win the contest. One of these is Sweden which is being represented with a performance of “Heroes” by Måns
Zelmerlöw (a name I am especially looking forward to hearing the nonNordic nations trying to pronounce). Charlotte West, our societies and services co-ordinator said: “I loved Sweden! Such great showmanship – I’m so excited!” I can perfectly understand the comment about showmanship. The staging is fantastic, it includes a light projection onto a screen and the singer interacts with characters on the screen. There is a fan favourite among the competitors this year, a fan favourite that isn’t really reflected in the odds that bookmakers are supplying. It is the deliciously dark ballad from Mørland and Debrah Scarlett of Norway called “A Monster Like Me”. I really love the fragility of their performance, it adds to the emotion but Alex Sheffield a first year Physicist says: “The song is strong and easy to listen to. However, I believe the live performance lacks too much to make a significant impression.” I am going to mention a few others, these being Italy, Australia, Spain, Estonia and Azerbaijan; because once I’ve mentioned these I think I will have spoken about the winner. Italy are being represented by the three-
piece all-male ‘popera’ band Il Volo with their song “Grande Amore”, and it does exactly what it says it does, fairly unimpressive by-the-numbers popera. Australia are really in with a good chance of winning, due to the novelty and the fact that “Tonight Again” by Guy Sebastian is a really contemporary and funky track. Spain’s emotive ballad “Amanecer” by Edurne could really give the big guns a run for their money, she oozes class when she performs this live and the symphonic version released in the past couple of weeks is a joy to hear. Estonia may get their second win with the strangely addictive yet melancholy duet “Goodbye To Yesterday” by Stig Rästa & Elina Born. However, if I had to put a name down to sneak in for the win it would have to be Azerbaijan’s “Hour Of the Wolf” by Elnur Hüseynov. The live performance of this at PreParty Riga blew everyone away and, knowing Azerbaijan, the staging will be elaborate but perfectly judged. You really connect with Elnur when he sings this and making an emotional connection can be the difference between second and champion.
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
28
with LIAM TURNER
music
Will new streaming service sink or swim?
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ITH critics and consumers alike all hailing the arrival of online music streaming as the next step in the evolution of music consumption, it seems many are trying to hop on the accelerating bandwagon, writes Liam Turner. Tidal, originally launched in 2014 in the US and UK by Swedish company Aspiro, is the latest in a recent proliferation of streaming services to try and claim part of the lucrative market. The question on everyone’s lips: Is it worth using? Well, Tidal has certainly garnered significant attention over the past few weeks, mainly due to the public launch of the service by music megastar Jay Z. The mogul’s company, Project Panther Ltd, took over the streaming service early this year for the sum of $56 million, and, after a few months of alterations, re-launched the service last Monday at a star-studded ceremony in New York. Big names such as Rihanna, Madonna and Beyonce were all up on stage with Mr Carter himself, and all put their points across for why they think Tidal is going to be the next big thing.
What is it? Tidal has been marketed as “the first artist-owned global music and entertainment platform”, and, on the surface, is a streaming service that isn’t a whole lot different to its better-known counterparts. Unlike the majority of its peers, however, Tidal is an exclusively paid service, meaning there is no way to access its content without paying a monthly subscription. Obviously,
this facet of the service alone isn’t particularly enticing - if anything, it would probably be conducive to the demise of the site. According to Jay Z and co., though, the service offers consumers a couple of things that set it apart from other streaming sites, which they feel justifies its lack of free subscription.
What can it do? For one, it offers users the option of listening to music in a FLAC format. FLAC is essentially the quality of sound that you would typically find on a CD a quality that many consider to be superior to the contemporary ubiquity of the mp3 format. This aspect of the service was pushed as one its chief USPs. The problem is, the average music consumer isn’t particularly bothered about the quality of the music that they are listening to: it doesn’t matter if it’s on vinyl, tape, CD or mp3. Of course, there will those
who consider themselves to be more music-savvy who will be happy at this revelation; but this demographic will comprise only a small portion of Tidal’s potential audience. If they want to appeal to as wide a market as possible, the top-dogs at Tidal may want to think further outside of the musical box. Further compounding the case against this, is the fact that to pay for the service’s higher quality subscription, it will cost you $20 per month, double that of the standard subscription - by no means a small sum considering the amount of free streaming services that are otherwise available. Tidal’s other chief USP is that it promises to give users access to exclusive content. Beyonce, for example, has just put out a single (‘Die With You’), which can only be accessed if you are subscribed to the service. Daft Punk’s feature film, Electronica, is also currently exclusive to Tidal, with many
more expected to be added within the next few months. Whether future exclusives will be pique the interest of potential subscribers, though, is a question only time can answer. Tidal also states that it intends on paying artists more per play in comparison its competitors. This is certainly an interesting promise, as Spotify (amongst others) has come under criticism for not paying artists enough. But the problem with the idea of paying artists more is that it is much easier to say than do: the money initially goes to those at the record company; it is they who decide how much the artist gets paid. The fact that Tidal is a service that is run by artists and musicians could work in favour of this, though. They are in a position of power and patently have ties with labels; so, Tidal’s promise of paying artists more than others could actually come to fruition.
Will it succeed? Superficially speaking, Tidal does appear to be a new and exciting way to stream music. But as soon as all the glitz and glamour is taken away, the fundamental core of the service is revealed. Yes, it offers exclusive content and CD-audio quality, but the truth is, the average consumer won’t really take too much notice. There’s nothing on offer here that will drag them away from the services such as Spotify, which still offer a free service. Only further down the line will we be able to see if Tidal justifies its existence.
ALBUM REVIEW: Mini Mansions - The Great Pretenders
ALBUM REVIEW: The Wombats - Glitterbug
Los Angeles indie-pop trio Mini Mansions have released their sophomore LP, The Great Pretenders; and with guest appearances from the Arctic Monkeys’ Alex Turner and the Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson (along with some truly great songwriting), this record could see the band finally breaking through, writes Liam Turner. The Great Pretenders is a very poppy record, but not in the way that you might think. Its congeniality harks back to the days of sixties psychedelia and seventies glam. Opener ‘Freakout’ is the perfect example of this: Bolan-esque vocals sing atop a pneumatic rhythm section and whirring organ; an undeniably catchy chorus more than competently binds it all together. ‘Vertigo’ is another prime example of the album’s poppy, yet idiosyncratic, nature: whilst the chorus is, again, (indie)pop-by-numbers, the verses (bar one featuring Alex Turner) feature some unusual chord changes that sit beneath lead singer Parkford’s delicate vocals. The composition, though perhaps initially jarring, is very well put together, with the appreciation of it increasing with every listen. Mini Mansions may have procured contributions from the likes of Turner and Wilson in an attempt to increase the band’s reach, but the truth is, the album is good enough on its own. It’s unusual yet endlessly alluring, and it would not at all be a surprise to see the band high-up on the most-wanted list of festivals on both sides of the Atlantic in years to come. In short, The Great Pretenders is a great album.
If there’s one thing that Liverpudlian indie-pop outfit The Wombats know how to do, it’s how to make a catchy song. But, like the sour core of sugary sweet, their newest album, Glitterbug, is rather beguiling in its nature, as its heart deals with the less than palatable facets of modern life, writes Liam Turner. “It’s tough to stay objective baby, with your tongue abseiling down my neck,” sings lead-singer Murphy on mid-tempo opener ‘Emoticons’; it’s a line which perfectly sets the tone of the album. Ostensibly sugary track ‘Pink Lemonade’ continues in this vein, with Murphy melodiously warbling, “Does he take you places I can’t afford to go/I know behind that sugar there’s only lies, lies, lies.” The instrumentation on this thing very much acts as the light to the dark that is the subject matter, though, and compared to earlier releases there is a fair amount of sonic embellishment; synth and other keyboard-related effects are present on many of the tracks. Thankfully, this inclusion doesn’t affect the core instrumentation, and layers of guitar (both clean and distorted) can be heard when they need to be. Glitterbug is a record that chiefly deals with sex, drugs, and indie-pop, and, combined with Murphy and Co.’s stellar songwriting, certainly provides an entertaining listen. It is not ground-breaking by any means, and it isn’t quite perfect, but it shouldn’t fail to please fans both new and old.
societies 31
careers 30
music 29
games 28
eurovision 27
food 25
travel 24
film 23
culture 22
front row 19
with sophie Wiggins
fashion 16
31
features 114-15
4 May 2015 waterfrontonline.co.uk
societies
Bioscience Society take a trip to Poland
Members of the Bioscience Society on their trip to Poland.
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FTER an intense few months of fundraising, the Bioscience society packed their bags and flew to Krakow where they would be staying for a week to complete a period of conservation work and admire Poland’s environment. With visits to the Bledow desert, Auschwitz-Birkenau, Wieliczka Salt Mine and Zakopane, the members of the society were able to gain a full insight into the history, contrasting environments and sights Poland has to offer.
The group undertook a day of voluntary litter picking in the mountainous Tatra National Park and also took this opportunity to learn about the Norwegian Spruce and the pests that put this species at threat. The young bioscientists also had the opportunity to climb the snowy Babia Gora mountain. Walking boots and poles were donned and the four hour ascent began. At the summit the beautiful landscape could be admired as well as the route down.
The guide who led the group advised us the easiest and safest way down through the snow was to get on your butt and slide, so that’s what they did. Sliding down parts of the mountain and landing in piles with limbs and walking equipment flying out in every direction. The Bioscience group had a great time exploring Poland and after the success of this trip and last year’s expedition to Iceland the society hopes year by year a bit more of the world will be explored,
and more importantly conserved, by the society. Litter often gets covered in snow making it hard to clean the national park. The warmer spring temperatures, melt the snow exposing the litter beneath which can be harmful to local organisms. We were involved in cleaning the park making it safer and cleaner for all species that inhabit the park
Dance Society wins Dance Varsity for 3rd year The Dance Society have kept their title of Dance Varsity winners for the third year in a row. This year the event was bigger than ever before, and was in aid of a charity important and close to the committee. The day was in aid of the charity Leukemia and Lymphoma Research, raising £100 with donations coming from competition t-shirts, a donation bucket and an extra donation from the society itself! The competition was held in Swansea, with Cardiff’s dance societies travelling down for the special day. Swansea competed against four separate dance societies from Cardiff - Broadway Dance, Slash, FAD and Expression. The refectory was transformed with banners, fairy lights set out for a professional and exciting day. There were ten categories, featuring two levels of dance, plus a solo and duet category. There were also three bonus prizes of Best Performance, Best Choreography and Best Costume. Swansea won eleven out of a possible eighteen categories - Irish Soft Shoe, Irish Hard Shoe, Advanced Hip Hop, Intermediate
Tap, Dancesport, Intermediate Ballet, Advanced Ballet, a Irish Solo from Conor O’Neill, Hip Hop Duet from Hash Wahbi and Ed Tom. Plus won Best Performance from Irish Hard Shoe and Best Costume from Dancesport. The day was a huge success with around 200 people attending with 140 students over the two universities competing. During the lunch break there was a performance from local performing arts school Starstruck, with 35 children dancing a 5 minute routine. This was also performed by their Vice Principle and one of the four judges for the day, Sian Davies. Other judges included Groundswell dance teacher Moe Alsayyed, professional Irish Dancer Lucy Barry-Dawkins and owner of Revue Studios Stacey Adamiec! The main success of the day was creating a fantastic, supportive atmosphere between all competitors at both universities, with everyone having fun regardless if they won or lost.
Photo by Dan Craggs
sport
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SPORT I 33
Varsity Results Issue t
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Varsity Shield 12 - 24 BOAT RACE: Cardiff EQUESTRIAN: Cardiff CYCLING: Swansea BOXING: Swansea RIFLE: 1110 - 1073 M BADMINTON: 4 - 4 W BADMINTON: 1 - 7 TKD: 7 - 12 M TENNIS: 1 - 5 W TENNIS: 3 - 4 SWIMMING: 195 - 151
PHOTO: GIOVANNI BUSI A member of Swansea’s freshers’ rugby team is held aloft by jubilant fans following his side’s dramatic 23-18 victory over Cardiff at Sketty Lane.
Swansea victorious in knockout success by Ryan O’Leary
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
IN front of a sell-out crowd in the refectory, Swansea University Boxing Club won their Varsity by 3 fights to 2, with Louis Long bringing the trophy home in the deciding fight. SUBC coach Robert Sampson was delighted with his fighters’ display, and felt that their experience in the ring was a vital factor in the victory. “For the past three years I have always been a strong believer that the best way to learn boxing is by getting as many rounds in the ring as possible. “I feel that Swansea had a great deal of fighting experience before going into their bouts and that’s what helped them win.” The club showcased their boxers
through exhibition matches against various boxing clubs, which led up to competitive matches against their Varsity rivals. Tony Chan kicked off the main event with an explosive performance, dominating his opponent for all three of the twominute rounds and scoring with combinations from start to finish. It was no surprise when he was called out as the winner by a unanimous decision. Viran Ali was next up in the ring for SUBC. Unlike Chan’s fight, this was a much tighter affair with both boxers scoring points throughout. Ali showed glimpses of promise throughout the fight and was perhaps unlucky to lose on a split decision. The third fight saw Danny
Champion in the ring. The Swansea fighter fought bravely within the three rounds, but lost by a unanimous decision. With the hosts 2-1 down, Swansea’s Alex Ruddy had to win. Despite the pressure, the fight never looked in doubt with Ruddy scoring highly in all three of the rounds. His consistent jabbing helped him control the fight, and his unanimous win brought the event level again heading in to the final fight. The atmosphere was tense as Swansea’s Varsity hopes all rested on Louis Long, and he did not fail to deliver. The first round was a cagey affair with both boxers trying to create an opening, however Long completely controlled the final two rounds to win by a unanimous
decision and send the home crowd wild. Coach Sampson said after the event that he had 100% confidence in his fighters, even with the score line being so close. “From the very beginning I believed that it was going to be Swansea’s night, and I had full confidence in all of the boxers from my club. I knew that Louis was a very talented fighter and he proved me right in the last bout of the evening.” Sampson went on to praise the masses of Swansea supporters that filled the refectory. “I think the crowd played a huge part in the evening. It gave all of us a massive confidence boost before we came out and I could not have asked for a better home crowd for all the boxers.”
Hosts overpowered despite brilliant team spirit by Akosua Darko
waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Despite starting well and looking set to give Cardiff a race to the finish, the women’s lacrosse team were not given a chance in this year’s Varsity clash. Cardiff only beat them 5-4 last year and the home side were determined to get the
win at Sketty Lane. Cardiff started the better, counterattacking quickly and forcing all Swansea players into defensive action. Cardiff had some very fast runners on their team, but Swansea played with determination, trying to stay in the game. They had some impressive passing between them and their team spirit and
was high, but by half time Cardiff led 9-2. This did not faze the crowd or the Swansea team, and the home crowd continued to back their team as they returned to the pitch - it was clear the team appreciated the support. After the break they played with vigour, but their presence was not strong enough and Cardiff scored five quick-fire goals.
The resilience of the Swansea team made it an exciting match for spectators; Cardiff had to continuously attack harder and also defended their net fiercely, making passing and taking a shot difficult. They hardly made any mistakes, but Swansea’s determination was certainly impressive despite a final score of 18-4 against them.
NETBALL: 7 - 47 GOLF: 7.5 - 2.5 CRICKET: Cardiff by 5 runs SAILING: 6 - 3 M SQUASH: 2 - 3 M ULTIMATE: 7 - 13 W VOLLEYBALL: 2 - 1 M FOOTBALL: 2-2 M FENCING: 118 - 134 AM FOOTBALL: 17 - 19 W ULTIMATE: 5 - 8 W RUGBY: 12 - 29 INTRAMURAL: 2 - 1 W HOCKEY: 0 - 0 (2-4pens) W LACROSSE: 4 - 18 CANOE POLO: 1 - 2 W SQUASH: 0 - 4 M VOLLEYBALL: 0 - 3 W BASKETBALL: 48 - 51 M LACROSSE: 1 - 11 W FOOTBALL: 3 - 0 W FENCING: 103 - 126 M HOCKEY: 1 - 0 F RUGBY: 23 - 18 M BASKETBALL: 50 - 52 M RUGBY: 22 - 27
34 I SPORT
thewaterfront 20.04.15
Men’s Basketball
Women’s Basketball
Men’s side slip up in Brilliant performance not enough pursuit of Varsity win as Cardiff edge three-point thriller by Will Humphrey waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
PHOTO: MATT DAVIES by Alex van Goethem waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Despite Swansea dominating large periods of the game on the day, it was Cardiff University who won the encounter by 52 points to 50. Swansea opened up a 14-point lead in the first quarter as Cardiff struggled to settle into the game and their unfamiliar surroundings. As stated before the match, Swansea seemed to excel in games when all their players work for each other as well as themselves. This was shown in the opening quarter as Swansea recorded four different scorers for their four initial baskets. Swansea continued to extend their supremacy throughout the second quarter as they hit a flurry of three point shots in as many minutes to the delight of the green and white army. Although James Corden did not score many points from point guard, he and Emanuil Zashev at shooting guard were the two players pulling strings and assisting their teammates in scoring valuable baskets.
Towards the end of the second quarter Cardiff began to click with each other, and clawed their way back into the game. The final quarter went right to wire as it was tied at 50 points apiece, and Cardiff had to resort to deliberately fouling Swansea players to stop them from scoring. Despite a last ditch threepoint attempt by Zashev, Cardiff managed to clinch a vital basket in the final 10 seconds to give them a narrow victory over their Welsh rivals. After the match Zashev, who scored 10 plus points within the game, gave his thoughts on the game, the team and next season. “It’s tough to lose on your home court, especially after having the lead for the most part of the game,” he said. “Cardiff played very well, and they did not give up until the end, so they deserved to win.” In terms of next season, Zashev said: “The lesson we can take from Varsity is that we should keep our composure at the end of games and keep executing, which is what has worked well for us during the game.”
ROUND UP: Rowing, Equestrian, Cycling, Rifle, Sailing, Golf, Cricket, Badminton, Volleyball and Canoe Polo results.
After winning the tip-off, Swansea ran out to an 8-3 lead in the first four minutes of the game, which doubled to a 12-6 advantage by the end of the first quarter as Cardiff struggled to find their rhythm early on. Crisp team passing and suffocating defence allowed Swansea to gain the lead, as their focus on teamwork and communication in the preparations leading up to this game seemed to be paying off. This theme continued into the second quarter as Swansea proved their dominance time and time again, collectively out-rebounding and out-hustling Cardiff. Swansea’s strong performance on the boards was led by Jaime Brown who battled down low throughout the game, collecting seemingly every missed shot on both sides and leaving Cardiff scrambling to find an answer to try to slow her down. Unfortunately with only 1:56 left to go in the second quarter Swansea’s Anna Zasheva went down with an injury whilst fighting for a defensive rebound, but would luckily return later in the game. Swansea extended its lead to 10 at the half following three consecutive free throws made by Brown and Rachel Johnstone to end the half 32-22 up. The second half started off with a Cardiff three-pointer only 15 seconds into the clock, and this seemed to be a sign of things to come as Cardiff’s shots finally began to fall. Cardiff used this switch of momentum to start chipping away at Swansea’s impressive lead. Swansea fought to keep their 10 point advantage but eventually buckled under the newly energised opponent, ending the third quarter tied at 39-39. Cardiff’s defence intensified in the final quarter, allowing them to
hEADING into Wednesday’s bumper fixture list, Swansea led the Varsity shield by 3 points to 2 after early victories in boxing, cycling and shooting. The men’s seniors won the boat race in Varsity’s opening event on the Saturday, but could not claim the overall victory and Cardiff took the point. Swansea drew level with a boxing victory on Monday, before Cardiff reestablished their lead with an equestrian victory on Tuesday, before cycling clawed it back to 2-2
pull away from the home team as Swansea slipped into an eight point deficit with ten minutes to go. However, cheered on by the Swansea supporters the home team made a late run in the final few minutes, keeping Cardiff scoreless whilst cutting the deficit to just 3. Securing the final possession, Swansea scrambled to find an open shot, which was released just before time expired but unfortunately failed to fall through the net. The game ended at a nail bitingly close 48-51 final score as Cardiff stole the late, late win.
Considering Cardiff finished their BUCS campaign unbeaten and 2 leagues above them, this close score was a brilliant game that the girls should be proud of as they look to build upon this performance next year. “We played at our very best, which the score reflected all the way through. Of course we were disappointed when we lost by only 3 points but to be honest only a few minutes later we were just super proud of our outstanding performance,” said team captain Nora Grosber after the game.
PHOTO: MATT DAVIES Swansea stormed into an early lead, but fell to a narrow defeat late on.
and a brilliant rifle club victory put the Green and White Army 3-2 up on Tuesday night. On the Wednesday, sailing claimed a 6-3 victory at Margam in Port Talbot, while there was also a victory for the golf club by 7.5 points to 2.5. At the LC2 in Swansea town centre, neither of our badminton teams could secure victory with the women losing 7-1 and the men being held to a 4-4 draw. In the same venue, there was a 2-1 victory for the women’s volleyball team before the men were beaten
3-0 by their Cardiff opponents. Canoe polo narrowly lost 2-1 in the National Pool, and the cricket club also fell to a tight defeat, falling just five runs short in their first competitive outdoor match of the season. Both ultimate frisbee teams also lost, and the Varsity shield returned to Cardiff after a total points tally of 24-12 in their favour. Nevertheless, the high amount of Swansea points represents the best Green and White performance in years.
waterfrontonline.co.uk Swimming
Swansea swim to comfortable Varsity victory by Akosua Darko waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
IN the Welsh National Pool at 10am, the Swansea team was out for vengeance as Cardiff beat them last year in the first ever swimming varsity. From the beginning Swansea looked set to win; they forced Cardiff to put up their best swim and even that was not enough. Swansea won the early races, which put them ahead of Cardiff and the excellent world-class facilities for Swimming for Swansea swimmers clearly helped. It was clear from the beginning that on the day Swansea were going to be the better swim team. The crowd for Swansea was large and they cheered the team on to victory; they were excited by the skill and talent of the Swansea swimmers and happy Cardiff had to play catch up due to the excellent home display. Cardiff tried to bounce back after the early races though, and kept narrowing the gap in an attempt to steal a win from Swansea. Swansea kept going to stay in the lead and hold off the threat from Cardiff, who swam hard to get back in the race and to try and make Swansea panic. Cardiff’s efforts were not entirely in vain as Swansea continued to lose some of the lead they had. Though Swansea had swam so well, that Cardiff’s efforts did not matter greatly. Swansea still had a big lead 111-77 by half time. But if Swansea could gain so many points in one hour then Cardiff could bounce back in the second half, so the Swansea team were aware they had to be wary and swim just as well in the second half as the first to seal the victory. After their 20 minute break, both teams seemed refreshed and ready to fight to the finish, each team eyeing the win. The gap between them continued to close and, with the end in sight, both teams stepped up their game as races became more neck and neck. Cardiff lagged behind Swansea into the finale race, and even winning the 8x50 m freestyle was still nowhere near enough to clinch them the victory. Swansea’s superb swim from the beginning and their resolve to keep fighting to stay in the lead, even when Cardiff pressured them and make them panic, gave Swansea a lot more points than Cardiff overall. Thus Swansea was the well-deserved winner, and the vocal home crowd cheered hard to acknowledge this.
SPORT I 35 Men’s Hockey
SUMHC round off great season with win by John Fanning waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
SWANSEA men’s hockey team edged a dramatic game to see off rivals Cardiff, but the game was not without controversy with a number of Cardiff goals being disallowed. The first half was a fast and frenetic affair with both sides having chances to score, albeit with Cardiff enjoying the lion’s share of the possession. But it was Swansea who had the first proper sight at goal, a brilliant solo effort from Venn down the left wing only to be foiled by Cardiff’s goalkeeper. Cardiff themselves had chances to take the lead in the opening period, even hitting the crossbar with one effort, and both sides went in at half time locked at 0-0. The second half you could not take your eyes off though, and thanks to the water sprinklers the crowd were thirsty for more. Early on in the half Cardiff had two goals disallowed; much to their bemusement the umpires had adjudged there to be a foul in the build up to the first, with the second also being chalked
PHOTO: DAVID O’CONNOR Both sides defended resiliently, but Swansea came out on top after Cardiff saw two goals disallowed.
off. After surviving a barrage of attacks, it was to be Swansea who would score. Taking advantage of a man advantage, Swansea scored from a short corner, profiting from Cardiff’s lack of
manpower in defence to go 1-0 up. There was still time for 2 more disallowed Cardiff goals, as well as 2 more sin bins, and the last play of the game was especially tense. Cardiff looked to equalise
from a short corner to set up penalty flicks, but the final shot went wide. Cue a mass pitch invasion and wild celebrations after the game, as well as some relief at keeping Cardiff at bay.
Women’s Hockey
Resolute ladies take Cardiff to penalties by Ned Bristow waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
SWANSEA women’s hockey club endured the pain of penalty flicks on Wednesday, after a sensational defensive performance held higher-league Cardiff to an unprecedented 0-0 draw. The visitors started brightly, and set the tone for the rest of the match with an early shot fizzing wide, before forcing a series of short corners that were thwarted by brave defensive work. Swansea seemed to settle after keeping Cardiff at bay for the opening ten minutes, and Sophie Feboul looked particularly dangerous going forward. Cutting in from the right wing, Feboul probed the Cardiff midfield and made space, but ultimately her side were not to trouble the Cardiff ‘keeper. Instead, the action was at the other end. A short corner stung the palms of home goalkeeper and player of the match Rebecca Holland, who produced an unbelievable performance in keeping a miraculous clean sheet. Cardiff were unrelenting, however, and a smart one-two
looked to put a forward clean through but for the freshlysprinklered pitch to take the ball away from her despairing stick and out of play. Almost immediately, the visitors were bearing down on goal again and Holland positioned herself well to put Cardiff’s forwards under pressure and allow her equally impressive bank of defenders to get back and clear off the line. With quarter of an hour gone Swansea finally got control of the ball, keeping it well for a number of impressive passes but failing to pose a genuine threat, Back in possession, Cardiff countered well once more and it took a brave block by Swansea’s Lydia Rowswell to prevent the visitors from breaking the deadlock. Perhaps tiring as half-time approached, Swansea became wasteful in possession and began to gift Cardiff possession as the red swarm set up camp in the hosts’ half of the pitch. The half ended in much the same way as it started, with Cardiff continually venturing into the final third and combinations of Holland and various defenders
demonstrating lightning quick reactions to pull off superb athletic blocks.. Once again, Cardiff were quickest out of the blocks as the second half got underway, and piled the pressure on with fluid attacks and numerous short corners. Swansea remained strong at the back, and forced Cardiff into technical errors as they failed to pull off any of a catalogue or short corner moves. At the full time whistle, the home side deservedly celebrated the shut out as a victory, with relief spilling into cheers despite the upcoming penalty flicks. Along with captain Josie Hassall, Molly Tyrell, Aimee Pink, Maddie Jones and Holly Janes put themselves forward as takers, but it was all over after eight attempts as Cardiff ran out 4-2 winners in the shootout. Nevertheless, the side can look back and be satisfied with their performance, and Hassall was brimming with pride after the match. “We gave up hours and hours to practice on that pitch and it really paid off on the day,” said the captain.
“It felt like an amazing accomplishment after losing 9-0 last year. “I’m ridiculously proud of the whole team, who pushed themselves to the limit and fought until the end. “A special mention should be given to the defensive line, who had the game of their season; in total Cardiff had 14 short corners and we stopped them all.” The team have come on leaps and bounds since the start of the season, where they struggled to gel after seven new faces entered the team. But a brilliant second half to their season saw momentum build up and this, coupled with the home crowd, helped the side onto an historic result. “The crowd were behind us from the start and really kept us going,” said Hassall of the Green and White Army in attendance. “It was overwhelming to hear how happy they were with our performance. “We all take pride from the day and I could not be happier with our performance. We did everything we could and had nothing more to give at the end. “I feel extremely lucky to have captained such a good team.”
36 I SPORT
thewaterfront 20.04.15
Thank you and goodbye to Ned
BUCS
by Akosua Darko waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
PHOTOS: GIOVANNI BUSI
Swansea Titans fell to a dramatic defeat in the last play of the game
THE biggest sporting event of the university year is over. We’ve said goodbye to Varsity and, unfortunately we at the Waterfront say goodbye to one of the most talented, hardworking, efficient and friendly editors, Ned Bristow. Ned has been excellent at organising all the Waterfront sport writers to bring all the sports news to Swansea university students. Keeping track of all the achievements and games of the sports clubs, would not be possible without his relentless hard work. As an editor, his support and availability helps his writers do the best they can. He’s also humble, grateful and approachable, making it a joy to work for him. That’s why the sports column is always so well written and entertaining to read. His editing skills are also superb just like his stories. Ned, because you are such a stand up editor, we at the Waterfront and especially Waterfront Sport say thank you, for encouraging as to be the best writers we can be. “Ned has inspired me through his great work throughout the year to become the next sports editior,” said Will Humprey.
Ned, right, pictured with Swans hero Lee Trundle. “I’ve only recently joined the newspaper but Ned made me feel like I was part of the team from day one, offering me guidance and help whenever I needed it. I wish him all the best for the future!” said Alex van Goethem. “Ned is an incredibly talented and knowledgeable. He works hard and is great at what he does so I know that Ned will have a very successful career in journalism ahead of him. On a personal note, Ned is a really lovely guy to have around the office,” said Laura Fiteni. “Ned’s been a great editor for the sport section, helping to develop and maintain The Waterfront’s reputation being a great student publication, as well as keeping constant contact with his writers throughout the year. He also convinced me to start writing for the paper, which has
given me the opportunity to practice and showcase my writing,” said Niall Griffiths. “Ned has been a fantastic sports editor this year! Said Niamh Ollerton. “Ned has been a great sports editor this year; his constant encouragement has made it a pleasure to write articles for the waterfront sport section,”said Ryan O’leary. “Ned is probably the most organised student journalist I’ve ever met, a stand up guy to work with. Best of luck Ned, not that you need it!” said Hilary Webb. Ned, you have been a wonderful editor this year, encouraging and always willing to help, so thank you all the best for the future,” said Claire Cuddihy. “I never thought I could be a good sports writer, but through your support and giving me opportunities to write, and trusting me to do it well, I have made improvements. Thank you, I have only recently joined, but I’ve been so impressed by your work,” said Akosua Darko. “During my short time here, it is clear that Ned has left big shoes to fill. It is evident that he has been the engine of The Waterfront during his time here and I am certain he will achieve his aspirations in the future,” said Matt Davies.
waterfrontonline.co.uk
SPORT I 37
Intramural
Famous victory for Osmond’s Green and White Army by Niall Griffiths waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Swansea’s intramural football team claimed a memorable 2-1 victory over Cardiff at Ashleigh Road in what was a combative game both on and off the pitch. All three goals came in the first half, with skipper Lewys Thomas of Team Sloth striking first before Cardiff grabbed an immediate equaliser. Just as the game seemed to be headed into the interval as a draw, Sixes’ Rhys Winnett’s last-gasp strike proved to be the winner. The match began as expected, with both sides exchanging early spells of possession and a few forceful tackles setting the tone for the rest of the match. Thomas proved to be a match for the Cardiff defenders, showing great tenacity to close down at pace. His hard work was rewarded midway through the half when he rose above everyone including the keeper in the box to head home from a throw-in. Cardiff offered an instant reply, moving the ball forward well and hitting the post two minutes after Swansea’s goal. The equaliser eventually came from a cross from
the left side. The ball seemed to be heading for Swansea keeper Jamie Ridley-Smith’s hands, but a wicked deflection changed the flight of the ball, sending the keeper off balance. The deflected cross found its way to the back post where a Cardiff striker was on hand to tap it in. Cue madcap scenes, as the red contingent of the crowd spilled onto the pitch in the first of many pitch invasions. The officials had a rough time for the entirety of the match due to spectators constantly encroaching, with linesmen being pushed an extra few yards onto the field. The atmosphere was beginning to build under the Swansea sunshine, and the crowd was getting larger by the minute. With half time approaching, Winnett was found free at the back post after a scrappy exchange following a corner and he made sure to bundle the ball over the line, sending the Swansea fans into hysterics. As the forward wheeled away, the Green and White Army responded with their own pitch invasion. The second half passed largely without incident, with both teams finding it hard to finish clearcut chances. It was off the pitch
that the true action was found. Streakers, melees, smoke bombs and offerings of cans to set-piece takers proved too much for the referee at one point, who put a
brief stop to the match as security cleaned up an off-pitch scuffle. Despite the goings-on off the field, Swansea were able to hold firm to claim their first Varsity
PHOTO: DAVID O’CONNOR SUMFC 6s man Rhys Winnett shows his striker’s instint to convert Swansea’s winner just before half-time. Tennis
Netball
Spirited Swans outclassed by rivals by Akosua Darko waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
A huge crowd turned up to support the Swansea ladies netball team as they set out to take on Cardiff. They knew the task was going to be a difficult one, since Swansea’s first team is second to Cardiff
victory since 2012. The relief and ecstasy was palpable as both lines of Swansea fans ran onto the pitch at the whistle, sweeping players and the team coaches off their feet.
second in their BUCS league. Swansea played with determination and unrelenting effort, and it was clear they believed a win for them could be on the cards. The Swansea crowed also spurred them on, and their chants echoed throughout the stadium, especially in the last quarter of the match.
The claps at the end for Swansea were louder than any throughout the match; the crowd appreciated the effort of the Swansea women, and their spirit was undefeated despite the scoreline showed true sportsmanship. Swansea were down at half time, still had time to do damage and bring up their score. All hope was
PHOTO: GRETCHEN KESSLER SUNC battled well throughout the match with vocal support, but couldn’t find a way in against Cardiff.
definitely not lost. Swansea fans also felt hopeful, the team played very well and were determined to make it hard for Cardiff, so they cheered and kept the support up. They tried to propel the team not to lose hope and to let them know they believed in them. There was a great atmosphere and it was good to see Swansea University students backing each other and inspiring the effort the Swansea girls put up. The Swansea girls were met with cheers by their supporters as they entered the court for the second half of the game. Swansea had a lot of narrow misses in the third quarter and Cardiff continued to take advantage of Swansea trying to get back into the game. Swansea kept going to Cardiff’s net, but most of the close shots resulted in the narrow misses and Swansea had a hard time making it back to defend in some cases. Cardiff continued to score in the last quarter, but were slowed by the fight Swansea put up at the end. Swansea responded with a further two point, and the crowd, clearly impressed by the sheer determination of the Swansea girls, clapped until the end.
Double defeat for tennis club by John Fanning waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Both the men’s and women’s teams suffered defeats in this year’s tennis duel at the Swansea tennis and squash club. The men went down 5-1 to Cardiff, with the soul victory coming for captain Mike Thomas in his singles game, winning in straight sets 6-3 6-3. Unfortunately, the other 5 rubbers all went Cardiff’s way, and all in straight sets, in front of a vocal crowd. It was a much closer affair for the women, however, as it ended 3-3 after all of the rubbers had been played, which forced the tie into a shootout. Swansea enjoyed a perfect start winning both of the doubles matches to take a 2-0 lead. After the second round of matches Swansea were still 3-1 ahead meaning that they needed just one of the final two games to secure victory. However Cardiff had other ideas and won both remaining rubbers to take it into an agonising shootout, which Cardiff won 2-1. Captain Thomas said after the game that: “Overall, Varsity was a great event and it was great to take part. “We wish the results were better, but we thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless”.
38 I SPORT
thewaterfront 20.04.15
Women’s Football
Commanding performance wraps up perfect season by Ned Bristow waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
AFTER a sensational BUCS season, a dominant 3-0 Varsity win was the cherry on top for Swansea, who have now beaten Cardiff four times in their last four meetings. Emily Grund opened the scoring from the spot after half an hour, before Erin Flynn and Sasha Bailey added goals either side of half time. Cardiff had no reply, and barely looked like getting on the score sheet bar a flurry of late shots that were well dealt with by substitute
‘keeper Kalila Goulding-Huckle. The hosts dominated early exchanges under the glaring South Wales sunshine, and good wing play by Bailey resulted in a cross which Abi Wilson flicked into the path of Flynn, who miss-hit her shot and allowed Cardiff to clear. Bailey continued to cause her fullback problems on the right flank, and exerted her strength and pace before a teasing cross came to nothing. In a rare first half call to arms for the home defence, Lauren Walker did well to deflect a low cross over
her own crossbar with red shirts waiting to pounce behind her. With ten minutes to play before half time, Grund was clipped as she ran through in the Cardiff box, and brushed herself off to send the ‘keeper the wrong way from the resultant penalty. A good save one-on-one prevented the influential Bailey from scoring after Flynn sent her through, and minutes later Bailey turned provider as her long throw found Flynn to finish smartly for 2-0. Just five minutes into the second half, Swansea had a third and put
PHOTO: GRETCHEN KESSLER Emily Grund converted Swansea first after winning a penalty, and two more goals put the hosts out of sight.
the game out of sight as the visiting ‘keeper failed to clear a loose ball, allowing Bailey to lift the ball over her head before slotting home into an empty net. Bailey and Flynn continued to probe, while Walker and Ellie Bishop showed no signs of weariness at the back with a pair of decisive blocks preventing sure goalscoring opportunities. Goulding-Huckle enjoyed arguably more action than the leaders’ starting goalkeeper during her 20 minute cameo, handling well at the death to quell any fears of a Cardiff revival. Bishop, who captained the side and led by example with a goalsaving tackle, revealed that the team were confident heading into the first home Varsity fixture since 2010. “It has been an incredible season, topped off by completing the quadruple over Cardiff. We worked hard and knew we had the beating of them. “Home advantage definitely helped as we felt a lot more relaxed. The playing surface was in immense condition, but the heat of the day was tough. “Next year we are losing a few players, but have a strong core which we can build from and team spirit is at an all time high.”
Fencing
Mixed fencing fortunes by Laura Fiteni waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Swansea men’s fencing team secured a decisive win in front of a supportive home crowd in the Pavilion, although the ladies faced a tougher challenge. Competing across all three weapons – foil, sabre and épée – the match up kicked off with a tense competition that saw the score tip 45-44 in Cardiff’s favour. Sabre saw the competition heat up as the play swung in Swansea’s favour, and Swansea equalised the playing field with a 45-44 win. The pressure was on the men’s épée fencers to secure victory, and the hosts quickly gained momentum with some sharp hits. The crowd held their breath as both fencers scored simultaneously numerous times. However the Swansea side looked practised and light on their feet. Gaining yards and poised to strike, their more aggressive style proved successful and the overall score reflected the club’s hard work throughout the year. The ladies started their competition strong with a 4536 win in Sabre but the pressure started to pile on during the foil round. Swansea staged a late comeback but Cardiff took foil 45 – 26. Unfortunately, Cardiff took the overall score to 126-105.
waterfrontonline.co.uk Taekwondo
‘Next year is ours,’ says captain after club enjoy best performance by Laura Fiteni waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
Swansea University Tae Kwon Do saw their best Varsity to date despite Cardiff narrowly stealing the victory by a few points in the patterns rounds. Proceedings kicked off in the Pavilion early Wednesday morning, beginning with patterns and team patterns. A disciplined and technical Swansea side showed how much they had improved since last year, but a few split decisions from the judges that saw the score swing in Cardiff’s favour with 7 – 3. Highlights included unanimous decisions for green belt Martin Lee and victory for Swansea’s higher belt team patterns despite performing a colour belt pattern (being limited to the highest pattern of the lowest grade) to Cardiff’s Black Belt patterns. The victory was especially sweet considering both teams included the team captains who have met on numerous occasions before. Swansea staged a ferocious comeback during sparring. Having taken on a new team format this year Swansea won the first bout of team sparring 3 -1 bringing the overall score to 8 -6 to Cardiff. With so little in it, the atmosphere was electric and an energised home crowd shouted encouragement as the green and yellow belt team punched Cardiff about the ring. Higher team sparring was more difficult with a huge height and weight advantage in Cardiff’s favour. Cardiff won two of the rounds to Swansea’s one and, with the only female fight just about swinging in Cardiff’s favour after an extremely close match, the concluding score was 12-7 to Cardiff. A fantastic performance from Vice Captain Matthew Clements saw his Cardiff opponent just about staying on his feet and in the ring, and the Swansea side were left with much to celebrate. After the closest match in Tae Kwon Do Varsity’s history, captain Laura Fiteni said, “Coming up against Cardiff who continually rank no.1 at university tournaments is always tough. “But I could not be prouder of the whole squad today – it was many competitors’ best tournament performance and as you can see by the score – and by Cardiff’s faces – we’ve improved dramatically this year and we’ve shown Cardiff that we’re out for blood! “Next year is our year.”
SPORT I 39 Women’s Rugby
Women fall short despite record points haul by Niamh Ollerton waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
On Sketty Lane playing fields, Swansea women’s rugby came head to head with Cardiff women’s in the annual Varsity. It was a great game of rugby to watch, the atmosphere was electric and had one of the largest group of spectators watching. Both teams were working their hardest and enjoyed playing the game. In the first half Cardiff had a penalty in first five minutes, before Swansea had the opportunity for a penalty and scored. Swansea kicked the ball in to touch and were awarded a penalty after the lineout, which was converted for three points. Cardiff then had a try disallowed, but did eventually score a try and conversion. Before half-time, Cardiff scored another couple of tries and converted one, making the half time score 22-6 to Cardiff. During the second, Swansea had the most possession, but could not quite close the gap making the final score 29-12 to Cardiff Home captain Amy Boyd
said after the match: “I want to congratulate every single member of the squad from 1-22 for their commitment and tenacity shown throughout the Varsity camp and match itself. “I thought the squad atmosphere really shone through in our match play.” It was obvious that Swansea were giving it their all, and Boyd continued: “Set pieces were executed well and this allowed us to get the highest ever points against Cardiff in a women’s rugby Welsh Varsity match.” Every player played to the best of their ability and were unlucky in their defence, allowing Cardiff breakaway tries. Through analysis the team have come to realise that they lost the game in the last 10 minute of the first half and outside of this, were winners of the second half as well as earlier in the match on points. The team’s Varsity player of the match this year was Eleanor Keep, who played at fullback. “As someone who only started rugby this year she made some incredible try saving tackles in 1 on 1 situations as well as proving a threat in attack,” said Boyd. “As well as Elle, Rhian Perry
played well as always and really showed positivity in her leadership across the park. Her captaincy throughout the year has been excellent and Varsity really proved that.” Looking to the future, Boyd said: “The girls are looking to work on continued set pieces in attack and defence as well as capitalising on a fairly stable team
for next season. “This, combined with a fantastic coaching staff, will hopefully get the result we want next year!” Leavers from the squad this year are Alex Sutcliffe, Amy Boyd and Lisah Masiwa, who have all played well throughout their time on the squad and have made a considerable impact to the team in their three years.
PHOTO: GIOVANNI BUSI
The close-knit Swansea squad worked hard for each other throughout.
Men’s Football
Honours even as rivals share spoils
PHOTO: MATT DAVIES Swansea attempt to scramble home a chance in the first half, but neither side did enough to prevent a draw. by Ryan O’Leary waterfrontsport@swansea-union.co.uk
The sun shone down brightly on Sketty Lane as a big crowd turned out to see SUMFC play Cardiff in the eagerly anticipated Varsity football match. The match was a very tight affair ending in a 2-2 draw. Given the rivalry involved it was no surprise that tackles went flying in early on. On the two minute mark
Cardiff received a yellow card for a late challenge on Swansea’s captain Jack McKenna. After the referee showed his strict view on late challenges, the game opened up with Swansea enjoying more possession throughout the first half but failing to make their possession count in the final third. It was Cardiff who took the lead inside the first 15 minutes, through a beautifully curled free kick into the top corner giving goalkeeper
Luke Martin no chance. Although Cardiff were 1-0 up, Swansea still looked very much in control with John Roberts a constant threat down the left hand side. Just before half time came Swansea’s best effort on goal, as striker Matt Barnard had his headed effort cleared off the line. Swansea came out for the second half looking an even stronger outfit. Roberts again looked the most dangerous going forward on the
left hand side, his winding run took on two players but his shot dragged agonisingly wide. The hosts’ early second half pressure was finally rewarded shortly afterwards. A whipped corner by Smith was knocked down by the head of Roberts, with Adam Orme reacting the quickest in the box to guide the ball home from close range. SUMFC then took the lead soon after equalising. A driven shot by Smith was heavily deflected by the head of Matt Barnard, which left the Cardiff keeper stranded as the ball drifted in to the net. Cardiff, however, soon responded with an equaliser. Swansea’s failure to defend the long throw resulted in the visitors volleying the ball into the top corner after taking a slight deflection along the way. The latter part of the game was very open, with both teams pushing for the winner. Roberts and McKenna linked up well to set up Barnard, whose effort was well blocked by the Cardiff defence. The last five minutes ended with both sides cancelling each other out. Neither side could keep the ball in the final third with the game finishing in a 2-2 draw.