Throughout 2023, Oceania will be featuring university clubs from around our region. All clubs are active on their university campuses and in their community. All provide opportunities for their members and unite students during their time at university.
Club of the week for 17 April is the University of Canterbury Football Club.
The University of Canterbury is located in Christchurch New Zealand and the University of Canterbury football club was established in 1945. It is the largest senior football club in the south island of New Zealand with over 1,000 members.
The club has over 19 teams competing across social and premier league competitions and they believe everyone should have the opportunity to have fun playing football. They focus on providing a great experience for all their members regardless of ambition or ability.
Their President is Matt Hodgett who studied a Bachelor of Science majoring in Computer Science and Statistics. “I am proud to be President of such an inclusive and successful club”, says Mr Hodgett. “The football club has students and community members from all walks of life and experiences. Everyone loves the sport of football and regardless of their level of ability, everyone is welcoming and supportive.”
The club’s university women’s team competed in the FISU Oceania Qualifying Tournament in November 2022. Playing for a spot at the 2023 University World Cup Football, the team travelled to Australia to take on The University of Sydney. Whilst narrowly missing out on the win, the team showcased a competitive ability that impressed all who watched the game. “The experience of going away with the team to Sydney was terrific”, says team captain Katie Harris who recently graduated with a Degree in Commerce (majoring in accounting and tax). “Whilst we didn’t come away with the win, the opportunity to play with the team at an international tournament against the best university women’s team in Australia was an experience we’ll all remember. We will look forward to going one better next time.”
For more information about the University of Canterbury Football Club, visit their website.
