Before school started, my friend Emma and I set a goal: to try an entirely new sport, a sport where we knew we wouldn’t easily get a chance to experience back home in America. While exploring the Welcome Week stations at the University of Sydney (USYD) Welcome Fest, the wakeboarding team sign immediately caught our attention. Instead of trying to recruit people who were already familiar with watersports, members were so excited to talk to everyone! When we got there, they were very kind and inviting, and we got a chance to chat for a while.
Just a few weeks later, Emma and I signed up for new members campTotally unsure what to expect, but full of excitement about this new experience! We spent a weekend trip here Hawkesbury River with 8 other new members. Thankfully, 4 coaches helped us get the gear on and taught us how to stay on the water. I can say with confidence that, between all the cleanups, I will definitely be wakeboarding again! Almost all of us were able to stand up and walk out, and it was so much fun! Amidst the swimming, jokes and cheering, everyone was smiling when someone got the news.
We spent that entire weekend on the water and occasionally eating out at the “barbie” (a grill). Nights were spent playing games, and some of us visiting from the states taught everyone what s’mores were. Since we didn’t have ingredients from home, we used pink marshmallows, digestive biscuits, and Tim Tams. Below are some pictures!
Being immersed in God’s creation was a blessing and an incredible experience. I have seen many people finding great joy in trees and water. Through this game, I have been able to make amazing connections with people from all over the world who study at USYD!
If you’re planning on studying abroad (or even if you’re on Hope’s campus), getting involved in club sports is a unique way to meet new people, try something new, and even take advantage of student discounts!!! I didn’t realize how much of a discount I could get for flashing my USYD student ID!
Quick tip for anyone planning to study at USYD: Always bring your student ID. You can get over 50% off activities like wakeboarding, and even almost 20% off at some restaurants!
As much as I thought wakeboarding would be easier than it turned out to be, I honestly wouldn’t trade my weekend for the world! If there’s one thing you learned from my post, it’s that don’t be afraid to try something new because you’ll make many more great memories and meaningful relationships than you would if you didn’t take that leap of faith!
Above is a photo of me wakeboarding on the river and a photo of me and my friend in front of a gorgeous sunset!!
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