A team of University of Tasmania students are set to take part in this year's UniSport Indigenous Nationals, which commences at the University of Newcastle later this month.
Returning to Awabakal and Worimi Country, this year's 30th anniversary event will bring together Indigenous student-athletes from universities across Australia to compete, connect, and celebrate culture through sport.
In partnership with the Riawunna Centre for Aboriginal Education, the University's dedicated support and learning facility for Indigenous students, University of Tasmania Sport is supporting 12 students to attend and compete at this year's event.
Riawunna Centre head of services, David Warrener, noted the pride students carry in representing their communities on a national stage.
"This is a great, and very proud opportunity for our students to represent their university, their community, themselves, and family, at a significant sporting event," Mr Warrener said.
"It is great to win, but also it is great to compete, to give your best, to be humble and to remain respectful. We wish our students all the best in competition and know that they will meet many other students, gain knowledge, and enjoy their experiences."
Adding to this year's significance, Pakana woman and University of Tasmania alumna Nikki Sainty has designed the official artwork for the University's 2026 Indigenous Nationals uniforms.
Her design will be proudly worn by University of Tasmania student-athletes as a visual representation of culture, identity, and connection to Country throughout the competition.
The University of Tasmania said the Indigenous Nationals provides an important opportunity for participants to showcase their skills while contributing to a strong, supportive, and united national community of Indigenous student-athletes.
This year's event features a mixed competition across touch football, basketball, netball, and volleyball.
Head of Sport, Kieran Perry, said the partnership with Riawunna plays an important role in ensuring students can fully engage in the experience, both on and off the field.
"The Indigenous Nationals are a vital opportunity for our students to connect to university life, strengthen cultural identity, and experience high-level sporting competition in a supportive and meaningful environment," he said.
"This event is about much more than sport, it is about connection, pride, and community. Through our partnership with the Riawunna Centre, we are proud to support students to represent the University of Tasmania and to take part in an experience that is both culturally significant and personally transformative."
The UniSport Indigenous Nationals will be held from 29 June to 3 July on Awabakal and Worimi Country at the University of Newcastle on NSW's Central Coast.
