Written by Aurora Beazley
Hi, I’m Aurora Beazley, and I’m in my third and final year at Charles Sturt University in Wagga, Studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management. I chose Wagga not just for the course, but for its vibrant social and sporting culture – something that’s deeply woven into both the university and the wider community
Where it all began
I’ve played netball for over ten years now, and it’s a sport that I truly value. It combines strategy, athleticism, and community. I also love the unique visible and powerful role that women play at level of the game. This enhanced my personal sense of belonging and value, something that has only deepened since joining Ag Netball.
Joining Charles Sturt
When I started at Charles Sturt, I was immediately welcomed into Ag Netball – a club that values every player, no matter their skill level. It’s a club where competition and inclusivity coexist, something that the community really values.
In 2023 I was selected into the top team alongside two other first years. Initially, this team was daunting, our teammates were experienced not just in netball but in this new uni lifestyle, close-knit and talented on the court – but welcomed us with open arms. That year, we went on to win the grand final! The friendships I made through that team, and Ag Netball more broadly helped shape my uni experience. All the girls support one another through the tougher parts of studying and celebrate our wins both on and off the court.
Moved into leadership
In 2024, I joined the Ag Netball Executive Committee as Secretary. That role opened my eyes up to what goes on behind the scenes – budgeting, logistics, committee meetings – but more that that, it showed me the impact of strong values. Our committee culture was built on kindness, optimism, and always keeping an open mind. This attitude naturally filtered through everything we did; from coaching and competition to our clubs wider reputation.
This culture sparked real momentum. In 2024, over 25 students volunteered for committee roles, and about 50 attended our AGM. Our playing numbers had exploded in 2024 from about 110 to 127 and grew again this year to a massive 162 players across 14 teams. This growth speaking to the strength of the community we’ve built.
Sports and Blues Award milestone
A major milestone for the club last year was winning the University’s Sports and Blues Awards Club of the Year. This award recognised not only our growth and community impact, but also the importance of the values we uphold. That $1000 prize went directly into equipment and coaching resources to continue supporting our expanding club – timing that couldn’t have been more perfect heading into the 2025 season. We’re also incredibly grateful to our continuing sponsorship from Wagga SRC and other local business, that allow us to maintain this community at minimal cost for our members.
This year, I’m Club President
This year, I’ve stepped up as Club President while continuing to coach, umpire, play and of course enjoy the social side of netty which so far has been a very rewarding experience. Winning a Sports and Blues Award last year cemented the values our club brings to the uni community something this year myself and the rest of the committee really aim to continue highlighting.
Sports and Blues Awards nominations are now open!
If you’ve had a teammate who inspires you, a coach who’s gone above and beyond, or a club you’re proud to be part of (maybe like Ag Netball), give the person or community you value a chance to be celebrated by nominating them for the 2025 Sports and Blues Awards! Nominations are open now.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
