UniSA Sport’s Athlete Development Program continues to foster outstanding talent, with several student-athletes recently making their mark on the national and international sporting stage. These exceptional athletes not only balancing their academic pursuits but are also achieving remarkable results in their respective disciplines.
Ethan Penck: Orienteering Success
Ethan Penck showcased his orienteering skills at the Oceania Orienteering Championships in New Zealand, held from January 24th to 27th, 2025. Competing for the Australian Bushrangers in the individual sprint event, Penck finished in 13th place overall, making him the 7th Australian. Despite a challenging race, where mistakes cost him over 1.5 minutes and potentially a podium finish, Penck is looking forward to further opportunities. His performance at the Oceania Championships forms part of the selection trials for the Australian national team for the upcoming World Championships and World Cups.
Penck also secured a first-place individual result for Team SA Arrows at the National Orienteering League event held at Edith Cowan University in Perth. This victory improves his chances for selection in the Australian team for the 2nd World Cup in Belgium, scheduled for August 27th to 31st, 2025, which will coincide with the European Orienteering Championships.
Nellie Langford: Strong Performance in Race Walking
Nellie Langford competed in the 20 km race walk at the Chinese Race Walking Grand Prix in Taicang on March 1st, 2025. Langford finished a creditable 59th overall and was the 5th Australian, clocking a time of 1:42:58 despite challenging warm weather conditions. This result came just weeks after Langford set a personal best of 1:41:39 in the same event in Adelaide in mid-February.
Tryphena Hewett: Record-Breaking Performance in Pole Vault
Tryphena Hewett continues to impress in the track and field scene, most recently earning 2nd place at the Adelaide Invitational and 3rd place at the Perth Track Classic. During the latter event, Hewett jumped a personal best of 4.25 meters, surpassing her previous record by 5 cm. This achievement achieved a qualifier for the World University Games, cementing her position as one to watch over the next 12 months.
Daniel Chen: National Ice Hockey Competitor
Daniel Chen, a national-level ice hockey player, made his debut for Team Australia in an exciting 3-game series against New Zealand in Auckland from March 6th to 10th. Daniel grabbed an assist as Team Australia picked up 3 big wins against New Zealand.
Alex Trewartha and Will Polley: Representing Australia in Canoe Polo
UniSA student-athletes Alexander Trewartha and Will Polley are set to compete for Australia at the 2025 Canoe Polo Oceania Championships in April. Both athletes, who have earned their spots on the Australian Canoe Polo team, are excited about the opportunity to represent their country on the international stage. The competition, which will take place in New Zealand, serves as an important event for the team as they aim to qualify for the World Canoe Polo Championships later in the year.
Lillee Wakefield: A Gold Medal Triumph
Lillee Wakefield competing in Judo, took home a gold medal at the Sydney International Open on March 1st, 2025. Wakefield competed in the +78kg Women's Mainstream category, where her performance earned her the top spot on the podium.
A Bright Future Ahead
These impressive achievements from UniSA’s student-athletes reflect the outstanding support and resources provided by the university’s Athlete Development Program. With the guidance and flexibility of the program, athletes are able to balance their studies with their athletic aspirations, positioning themselves for even greater success in the future.
UniSA continues to support its athletes, who are making waves on the national and international stage and looks forward to their continued growth and success throughout this year.