What do you think is the biggest problem facing sport/wellbeing at Strathclyde and how do you plan to resolve that problem?
Kit supplies is a major issue across the board right now. We have a new contract coming in which should hopefully fix this. We had a three year contract before and the quality of service had reached an unacceptable level. Shorter term contracts are more beneficial since we can review the service regularly and change if we need to.
Participation is another key issue. We need to revise the current sports fair which is far too busy for the location, the University Centre. A refreshers fair should be implemented to allow Erasmus students and those who missed the freshers’ fair see what Strathclyde has to offer.
How does your previous experience in the Union qualify you for the role of VPSW?
I am the President of the Surf Club. I am constantly in the Sports Union and understand funding and how the place works which will allow me to hit the ground running if I am elected. I have noticed that 60% of the Surf Club is made up of Erasmus students so we need to reach out to this group and make people more aware of sporting clubs at Strathclyde.
What do you offer that the other candidates don’t?
I have the advantage of having enough experience to create some real change. The VPSW position isn’t just about sport, it is also about wellbeing. Currently, the vending machines only offer junk food and unhealthy drinks. I think there should be water machines beside the vending machines so that people have the option of a healthy choice.
What has this year’s VPSW done well and what needs to be improved?
This year the Sports Union has effectively made welcomed sports clubs but we need a greater sense of community between all clubs and the Vice President of Sport and Wellbeing. I would further develop the Healthy Body Healthy Mind and Breathing Space campaigns because it is crucial to improve mental health on campus.
