An interview with Alexandra (Alex) Chua
As part of FISU Oceania’s celebration of International Women’s Day in 2024, we are talking to women involved in university sport across the Pacific. Our in depth interviews aim to not only highlight the wonderful work women (and others) do in our sector here in Oceania, but to inspire other women and men to follow their passion.
FISU Oceania (FO): Introduce yourself to our audience Alex.
Alex Chua (AC): My name is Alex and I live in Perth, Western Australia. I am in my third year of a Bachelor of Secondary Education (English major) at Curtin University, Bentley Campus.
FO: What do you love most about being involved in university sport?
AC: I believe that participating in sports in a university can enhance the student experience and create a sense of belonging and community for many athletes of different levels. Growing up I tried many sports and once I graduated to high school I found that I longed for the consistent sporting opportunity that I previously had embedded in the curriculum. I sought opportunities to get involved in sport and I found myself in a supportive, inclusive, and competitive environment within the university sporting culture. My proactive approach led me to participate in student programs and register for representative sport tournaments and competitions, deepening my involvement.
I had the opportunity to be a member of the Curtin University Student Sport Advisory council in Semester 2 of 2022 through my active participation in the student based programs within my university’s sport and recreation space. I am passionate about fostering and helping build an inclusive, welcoming, and positive community around sport and recreation. I started as a lead in our Marketing, Engagement and Communications portfolio and worked on campaigns to increase our visibility and engagement through liaising with the Student Guild within my university and our Sport and Recreation team. Getting results from launching campaigns allows me to see first hand how much of an impact university sport can have on fostering a thriving and interconnected student community.
FO: What inspired you to be involved in sport?
AC: I was inspired to get involved in sports, particularly volleyball, because I found the learning experience fun and challenging. As I began playing, I discovered a genuine passion for the game, driven by the excitement of the sport and the desire to improve my skills. Volleyball offered a unique combination of teamwork, strategy, and athleticism that resonated with me. The joy of playing, coupled with the constant opportunity for personal development, fuelled my commitment to the sport. Over time, I found that my passion for volleyball not only provided a source of entertainment but also became a significant aspect of my life, contributing to my overall wellbeing and personal growth.
FO: What is your next goal or aim in your chosen sport/sports job?
AC: In the coming year, I have set two distinct goals, each reflecting my commitment to personal and professional growth. Firstly, I am dedicated to enhancing my role as a student ambassador. One pivotal objective is the refinement of our representative sports program, aligning with the university’s dedication to sports excellence and holistic development of student-athletes on a national level. This goal not only involves marketing and engaging students in our volleyball program but also contributes to creating a more efficient and impactful structure. My second objective focuses on fostering inclusivity within the sporting culture by actively engaging our equity cohort in the sport and recreation space, thereby expanding our reach to a broader audience.
My second goal revolves around improving my skills as a volleyball player. My aim to advance to a higher division in the Western Australian Volleyball League (WAVL) compared to my previous season. Achieving this will necessitate adopting healthier habits, both on and off the court, to ensure my success in this competitive realm. These dual aspirations exemplify my dedication to personal and professional development, demonstrating a holistic approach to self-improvement and contributing positively to both my university community and personal athletic endeavours.
FO: Advice to other women wanting to be involved in sport?
ACL For women aspiring to get involved in sports, my advice is to embrace the journey with enthusiasm, confidence, and commitment to personal growth. The key is to find something that brings you joy and fulfillment. Be open to trying different activities until you discover the one that resonates with you. Once you have chosen a sport, do not be afraid to challenge yourself. Embrace the learning curve and view each obstacle as an opportunity for growth. Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and improvement comes with consistent effort and practice. Finally, enjoy the process and have fun.
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