Written by Lily Bannan
My name is Lily Bannan, I am 21 years old, studying the Bachelor of Paramedicine course at Charles Sturt, Bathurst. I am currently in my third year at university, and to say I’ve had plenty of sporting opportunities is an understatement. Within my first two years at uni, I was a part of the Charles Sturt Mungoes Rugby League, Sports Council, and Touch Football clubs. I have a strong passion for league tag, playing many positions within the team over the years, but you would often find me at halfback.
My first year, 2023, was a blast! The team was fortunate enough to make the finals after a lot of hard work, and I was lucky enough to be a finalist for Player of the Year within the entire competition; however, I was unable to reach the top. Although I was unable to win the award, Charles Sturt recognised me with the Club Athlete of the Year at the Sports & Blues Awards for representing Charles Sturt and our club.
In 2024, I had my most successful year representing Charles Sturt. Not only did I play for the Mungoes in League Tag, but I was also fortunate enough to be named Female Club Captain and League Tag captain for the season. Additionally, I was selected to represent the Woodbridge Cup in the NSW Blues State Championships. Additionally, I put my hand up to be the Charles Sturt Sports Council President and created my own Charles Sturt club. Charles Sturt University Touch Football was a club I founded in 2024 to create an atmosphere where everyone could come together, and that is precisely what it did. It was going to be a hectic year ahead, and that it certainly was.
The end of the year finally came around, and awards season had arrived. Within the Charles Sturt Mungoes, I was awarded Player of the Year, top points and try scorer for the League Tag. We then hosted our annual Blues Ball at the Bathurst campus, showcasing our clubs. I was awarded the Sportswoman of the Year, the Atalanta Award for the most significant contribution to women’s sport, and the Merit Award for Area Representation in my selected sport. Along with these awards, I was also fortunate to receive the Club Athlete of the Year at the Sports & Blues Awards once again. Although these awards mean so much to me and I am incredibly grateful to have received them, the friendships and memories I have made along the way mean so much more.
I am forever grateful for every opportunity I have been given at Charles Sturt University. Charles Sturt uni sport allowed me to feel a part of something special. I was able to find lifelong friends, create special memories and have great opportunities provided to me.
Creating Charles Sturt touch football will forever be the highlight of my uni experience. Although it was a lot of hard work and time, I will forever cherish the memories is created, not only for me but for so many other students of Charles Sturt university.
Nominations for the Sports and Blues Awards are now open. I encourage everyone to vote for your team, yourself, teammates, volunteer or club. Nominations close 8 October, so get in quick!
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