10 December 2007 By Graham Croker
The broad influence and reach of the Sydney University Swimming Club were evidenced last weekend.
While 11-year-old Jessica Donovan was being presented with the “Sutto” Award for commitment and dedication, at the annual Awards Party at the Sydney University Grandstand, Jonathon Newton was representing Australia in the FINA World Cup held in Belo Hirozonte, Brazil.
More than 100 swimmers and parents attended the Annual Christmas and Awards Party at the Sydney University Grandstand. All were there to recognise and appreciate the swimmers who excelled in the pool during the previous year.
Awards were presented for encouragement, club championships, state qualifiers and the winner of the parents’ race. Club life member and Olympian Geoff Huegill was on hand to present the awards.
The highlight of the afternoon was 11 year old Jessica Donovan’s presentation of the “Sutto” Award. Brian Sutton (founder of Sydney University Swim Club and Olympic coach) was present to make the award to Jessica.
“This award was not for the fastest or best swimmer,” Brian said. “It is awarded to a junior member who shows commitment and dedication towards training is a team player.
“Jessica has been a very committed swimmer, training and participating in regular swim meets and has delivered outstanding improvements while improving her personal best times. She is a member of the junior competitive squad and has just qualified for her first State Championships.”
Club President Christine Etter thanked the parents for their contribution to the running of the club during the year. As a mark of thanks, the committee was presented with gifts of appreciation for efforts to make the club a success in 2007.
On the other side of the world, Sydney University Swimmer Jonathon Newton was representing Australia in the FINA World Cup held in Belo Hirozonte, Brazil. Jono, currently ranked 7th in the FINA world rankings, swam a creditable 21.81 to collect the bronze medal and finish 3rd in the 50 free. He also swam 49.5 to finish 5th in the 100 free.