Check out the article at http://northern-district-times.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/oloughlin-to-play-for-uni/
MACQUARIE University Australian Football Club has started preseason training.
Macquarie University will host Pennant Hills in the first round of the AFL Sydney Division One 2011 competition at Macquarie University Oval, Talavera Rd, Macquarie Park, on Saturday, April 2, from 4.30pm.
Head coach Lindsay Bassani said despite the recent excessive heat the club had more than 60 players at training every Tuesday and Thursday night.
The club also recently announced the signing of former Sydney Swans forward Michael O’Loughlin to its 2011 playing roster.
Bassani, in his first year with the club after coaching in South Australia, said he was “overjoyed by the turnout” at training.
“If the players can drive their own commitment and challenge each other to continue to turn up then we will start the season with a very focused, very willing, and very capable squad,” Bassani said.
Club president Luke Gemmill praised the Macquarie University’s training facilities as a reason for the high turnout at training.
“We are very privileged to have access to some state-of-the-art training facilities provided by the university,” Gemmill said.
“The playing fields are in immaculate condition and with access to the Macquarie’s gym, pool and recreational facilities, the players can arrive at the ground knowing rain, hail or shine, that training will be on.”
Gemmill said new players were welcome.
“Whether you’re veteran of the game striving for success, an athlete who has crossed from a different sport, or an international student just looking to immerse yourself in the Australian culture, we have a team for you,” he said.
Macquarie University has six teams in the Sydney AFL competition, including four senior men’s teams, an U18’s side and a women’s team.