Issue 209

REFERENDUM TO BE HELD OVER PROPOSED MERGER

thewaterfrontt h e o f f i c i a l s t u d e n t n e w s p a p e r o f s w a n s e a u n i v e r s i t y

INSIDE

by Becca [email protected]

A REFERENDUM will be held this week to decide whether the students’ union will adopt a sports officer from the next academic year.

It will ask students to vote for or against the new full-time post being created to represent students who play sport after the athletic union (AU) dissolves at the end of this academic year.

The AU has already held a referendum which saw its members vote to approve dissolution of the AU and move towards handing over its activities to the SU and Swansea University’s sports centre.

AU president Dan Ryan-Lowes has spent the year redefining his current role to be a suitable equivalent to the full-time positions in the SU.

“It is important to get the new posi-tion as close to the teams as possible,” he said.

“The role will now benefit from a full time finance team, meaning the ad-ministration side is basically gone and as much time as possible can be spent directly helping teams.

“It also needs to be focused on student representation – speaking to bars, and SU media as a middle man to help clubs run smoothly.”

Luke James, SU president, stressed the importance of a “yes” vote in the refer-

endum which takes place from Tuesday to Friday.

He said: “It is important to vote yes in the referendum to ensure sport in Swan-sea stays student-led.

“The AU is a massive part of student life here.

“I’ll be sad to see it go, but it’s clear that the status quo isn’t an option anymore and it would be irresponsible not to plan a sustainable future for sport here.

At least 422 students must vote in this week’s referendum for the result to be valid and two-thirds of those that do vote must vote yes for a sports officer to be established.

Mr Ryan-Lowes met with team cap-tains last week to stress the importance of voting and all SU officers will cam-paign for a yes vote.

If a yes vote is secured an election for the first ever SU sports officer will be held in mid-March along with the usual election of the students’ union’s other six full-time officers.

At last week’s student forum, Mr Ryan-Lowes related what will be his new role to that of Tom Upton’s, societies and services officer.

“If you see what Tom does, you’ll know the role is too big for one officer, so we need to keep the societies officer and introduce a sports role,” he said.

Mr Ryan-Lowes also noted his working

Students urged to vote ‘yes’ in this week’s vote to keep sport student-led in Swansea

See what building is having a makeover

NEWS

page 2

A rare talent rewarded

Rob Howley on life in Swansea

FEATURES SPORT

page 24page 12

First Minister opens £28.8m medical research centre expansion PAGE: 5

to page 2 >>>

02 I NEWS thewaterfront 209 12.12.11

thewaterfront

Pearleen Sangha.Miss Sangha said: “I feel like we hear

less and less about it in the media, as so many other issues are prioritised, this has led many to believe that the issue might be going away.

“This couldn’t be further from the truth.

“HIV and AIDS are often identified with developing countries in South Asia and Africa, but it is very much a reality here around us as well.”

Last year in the UK, 6,660 people were diagnosed with HIV, which is an increase from 2009.

Third floor, Students’ UnionSingleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP

(01792) 295 [email protected]: waterfrontonline.co.uk

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SECTION EDITORSNews

Becca Taylor, Gemma [email protected]

Features Samantha Booth

[email protected]

Craig Hadley, David [email protected]

Front Jon May

[email protected]

Alex [email protected]

Film Andrew Williams

[email protected]

Michael [email protected]

Listings Russell Wade

[email protected]

James [email protected]

Travel Zoe Gullett

[email protected]

Lucinda [email protected]

Games Matt Edwards

[email protected]

Richard [email protected]

Photographers [email protected]

Website [email protected]

AdvertisingAnnie Cottam

(01792) 602496

DistributionRussell Wade

(01792) 606715

DisclaimerThe Waterfront thanks everyone who contributed to this issue. Content does not necessarily reflect the views of the students’ union, when an opinion is expressed it is the view of the journalist that is represented unless otherwise stated.

Final deadlines for next issueEarlier copy and picture deadlines will apply

Features Friday, January 20 6pmFront Friday, January 20 6pmNews Wednesday, January 25 5pmSport Thursday, January 26 10am

Meeting Times (Meetings are in the Waterfront office)

Features Monday, January 16 12pmFront Monday, January 16 12pmSection editors Monday, January 23 11amNews & Sport Monday, January 23 1pmDe-brief & Ideas Friday, January 27 1pm

Faraday lecture block set to be transformed in £2.75m makeover

FRESH LOOK: Swansea University’s Faraday lecture block will have a modern feel to it when work is completed in 11 months time

while the rest of campus has had a mod-ern revamp, Faraday has been left in the 1970s with its tired and monotonous look.

The existing façade around the entire building will be replaced with a contem-porary, coloured glass curtain wall and cladding system, adding some much needed vibrancy.

In addition to enhancing the physical appearance of the building, the pro-posed project is set to extend the use-

ful life of the facility while dramatically improving environmental performance, potentially reducing carbon emissions by up to 22% while improving visual, thermal and acoustic properties.

A remodelled main entrance will im-prove access whilst adding additional floor space to the 2nd floor.

Fiona Nixon, acting head of estates said: “Our current capital programme for the Singleton Campus addresses three main aims: Reducing backlog mainte-

nance, improving environmental per-formance and enhancing the student experience.

“We are confident that this project is consistent with all three themes and we are excited to be taking it forward”.

This much needed building work will bring Swansea University into the mod-ern day and bring our surroundings up to date with our studies.

THE Faraday lecture building is set to undergo a £2.75m transformation.

The 11-month project will start in January 2012 while students are home for the Christmas break and will then continue over the Easter and summer holidays to ensure the least disruption to teaching.

The building is over 40-years-old and

by Robyn [email protected]

Red ribbon and cake sale held on campus to mark World Aids daySTUDENTS marked world AIDS day with a cake and red ribbon sale in the foyer of Fulton House.

The event which is celebrated on De-cember 1 each year helps to raise mon-ey and awareness of the fight against HIV and AIDS and also aims to educate people further on the matter.

In previous years, the events have been run with a societal perspective.

But for the first time this year the stu-dents’ union has played an active role through caring responsibilities officer Steve Ralph, LGBT officer Ian Morgan, and community and housing officer

Mr Ryan-Lowes also noted his working role with the SU this year.

He said: “I’ve been closer and more in-volved with the SU than any other AU president.

“We’ve seen great improvement across the board, teams now want to be in the paper, on the radio and working with ents and the media.”

Mr James added that making the full-time officer team a group of seven will be the best for sport and the SU.

He said: “Adding a sports officer will ensure sport stays high on the university agenda because students will have a representative fighting their corner.

Voting for SU officer

For more information about world AIDS day or to join a campaign, students can contact [email protected].

<<< from page 1

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MondayJanuary 30, 2012

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Union pushes for student to council

NEWS I 03

NEXT year could see the first current fee-paying student stand for election to Swansea University’s prestigous council.

The motion, proposed by student’s union president Luke James at last week’s student forum, was instigated as a protest against the increase in tuition fees to the maximum £9,000 a year.

The motion passed with 95% of students giving their support.

Traditionally only members of the university’s court can be elected to the council.

The motion put forward was the union believes that while tuition fees exist, a fee-paying student should always be represented on the university’s council.

Mr James said: “As fees rise to £9000, students will make a larger contribution to financing the University than ever before.

“We should be looking to increase the power of students to make decisions at every level of the University.

“And we think it’s an important principle that whilst fees exist; a fee paying student should be a member of the university council.”

It is hoped that as both a member of the university’s court and a fee-paying student, welfare officer Charlotte Britton will be able to stand in the 2012 elections.

But a final decision is yet to be made by the University.

by Chris [email protected]

Election review enacts changes to electoral systemNEW election amendments have been passed in an effort to fix problems raised by the Election Review Committee early last week.

The motion was raised at the December Student Forum meeting and passed in almost its entirety.

Parts were called into the gender balancing quota, which called for 50% of places in NUS UK delegate to be reserved for women.

Issues were drawn to the likelihood of there being an uneven number of delegates and therefore more than 50% reserved spaces.

It was brought to the attention of the forum that non-first year students were able to vote for candidates for the freshers’ representative - the position held by Tomas Edwards.

The same problem was raised regarding the election of the

postgraduate officer, which was held alongside the freshers’ representative election.

Affiliation elections will also be simplified, with a “yes to all” and “no to all” option to be included.

The motion, raised by Mitchell Theaker, general secretary of the students’ union and back by education officer Rhiannon Hedge, also acknowledged difficulties for some students voting in the elections a few weeks ago.

Mr Theaker has been chairing an election review committee for several weeks assessing the curent election rules.

More information will also be clearly available to students online about what each officer’s role entails and their duties.

International students and off-campus students in particular had problems due to not being registered


Wednesday teams to the individual work out sessions in the sports centre to the thousands of fans that we take to Cardiff for Varsity! So if you want to see these weekly and annual events to take place then please vote YES, sport for students run by students.

This vote is not just for members of the AU but for all members of the SU, sport matters to so many in this University and its alumni so please have your say.

For more information please come and speak to me or any of the AU exec and we will be happy to answer any questions. If your still not convinced how important sport is in Swansea Uni then please read the back pages of the Waterfront, speak to any member of the AU or come along to a match or training session to see how dedicated and passionate our teams are.

Students and lecturers unite in strikes on staff pension changesby Gemma [email protected]

thewaterfront waterfrontonline.co.ukNOW LIVE

public sector pensions are sustainable and affordable.”

Simon Hoffman, president of the UCU at Swansea University, said: “No union wants to go on strike, but we have been driven to take industrial action by the stance of our employers who refuse to listen to our case on pensions.”

“It is very sad that cuts to pensions today will affect not just lecturers, but students because lecturers may decide to leave the higher education sector as a result.”

As a result of the strike, lecturers were deducted a days’ pay, which they are hoping will be given to a student fund.

“We have called on the university to put the money they save by not having to pay our wages towards student welfare,” Mr Hoffman added.

Students’ union president Luke James, who was also present at the protest, and Mr Hoffman have written to Swansea University’s finance director.

“Simon Hoffman and I wrote to the University’s Director of Finance requesting that any money deducted from academics wages due to their participation in last week’s strike be diverted to the University’s already overstretched Financial Contingency Fund.”

The request is still an ongoing matter.

STRIKE action at Swansea University saw the disruption of several lectures as members of the Universities and College Union walked out over proposed pension cuts of up to 15%.

From 7am to midday on Wednesday, November 30, both students and lecturers stood at the gates of the main campus in protest to the pension cuts.

They then proceeded on to the Guildhall where they were joined by thousands of people who were also striking and took part in a rally.

This followed a march on Monday, November 28 in which UCU members and the students’ union delivered a message of protest to the Vice Chancellor against pension changes.

The strike was part of a wider protest across the UK, which was said to include up to three million members of the UCU.

The proposed action of the government suggests that those working in the public sector should pay heavier contributions to their pensions, work more hours but get less money when they retire.

Leaflets produced by the UCU state: “The National Audit Office found that SOS: UCU and the SU are calling for better pensions for the academic staff

Does the referendum matter to me?

If you are a fan of sport, politics, equality and student representation? Then yes the SU referendum does matter to you! The current AU will cease to exist come the 31st of July 2012, which means student representation in Sport in Swansea University will cease to exist. By voting YES in next week’s referendum you are approving of all the hard work which has happened behind the scenes between the SU & AU over the last 18 months. This is when we throw the decision over to you the student body.

Sport in Swansea University is on the cusp of being in the top 20, out of 135 educational institutions in the BUCS leagues. This is a massive achievement for a university of our size but is not a surprise due to a long history of sporting excellence here in the Uni. Student sport here in Swansea is so vast and diverse from your

or not knowing how to log on to vote.The motion passed, but without a

part calling for the Deputy Returning Officer in elections to be a member of staff from NUS Wales.

This part failed as students defended the need for the DRO to be a member of the Swansea students’ union community.

There were attempts to add this to the union’s initiative which will make the election more open and accountable.

Next year’s elections for the full-time officers have not been given a set date, but are usually held around March.

Motions on support for the Workers’ Right Consortium and a biodiversity map and trail also passed easily through the student forum.

A motion concerning a report into open source software in the students’ union fell, when the vote was split evenly between yes and no.

OFFICERS’ CORNERdan ‘flash’ ryan-lowes

athletic union president

www.waterfrontonline.co.uk NEWS I 05

Institute of Life Sciences expands medical centre across campusby Gemma [email protected]

THE Institute of Life Science (ILS) has opened a £28.8m expansion to the medical centre at Swansea University.

ILS carries out important research on areas such as cancer, obesity and diabetes.

The development of the second phase of the medical centre is hoped to create around 650 jobs.

It houses a £21.6m joint initiative between the College of Engineering and the College of Medicine.

The 6,000 square metre building includes clinical research and will play a major role in developing new products and services for the healthcare industry.

The Welsh government has funded £10m to the second phase of the project, in addition to the first phase, which cost £52m.

The first phase of the ILS opened in March 2007 and accommodates laboratories and a super computer dedicated to medical research.

The second phase was opened by First Minister Carwyn Jones, who said it would provide both business to graduates and jobs in the private sector.

“It is a unique collaboration between government, academia and the private sector that not only provides medical expertise and research, but also economic development by nurturing new companies and creating jobs,” he said.

Campaigners set back by living wage reportA REPORT by Swansea Univeristy students’ union trustees has resolved that a proposal to give every member of staff the living wage is “not currently affordable”.

The report looked into the finances of the students’ union and the likelihood that all members of staff could be paid the higher wage of £7.20 an hour instead of the current minimum wage.

The trustees recommended that the living wage not be implemented as the annual surplus of £15,275 would not be sufficient to cover the increase of £116,155 in wages.

Thomas Hoyles, the third year history and politics student who brought the motion that commissioned the response was left “disappointed” by the report.

He said: “We were dismayed by the overall tone of the report.

“We are pleased the trustees will release the whole report, but we were hoping for more of a look into the future and the continued possibility of offering the living wage.

“It’s one step back but we’ll just have to push harder to get those steps forward.”

The trustees have promised to continue to review this matter in the future and examine how the Union can work towards such a wage for its part-time members of staff, most of which are current students.

by Becca [email protected]

“The Welsh government is proud to support the university and invest in research and the growth of the knowledge economy. I wish it all the best.”

Professor Richard B Davies, Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University, said: “At a time of economic gloom, this

is a remarkable good story: medical research creating jobs and leading to improved medical care.

“It also provides a home for the world-class research of the Swansea University centre for Nanohealth.”

Nanotechnology plays an important role in the detection and treatment

of disease via detection and measurement of biomarkers present in fluid or tissue samples, at a level of sensitivity far beyond current methods.The new phase will be dedicated to this research.

DEVELOPMENT: The Institute of Life Sciences is seeing millions of pounds in development.

www.waterfrontonline.co.uk CYMRAEG I 07

Tim pel droed GymGym yn llygedu’r cwpan!

gan Owain [email protected] i greu safle llety parhaol i

myfyrwyr Cymraeg AbertaweMae yna ymgyrch yn mynd i

ddechrau blwyddyn nesaf er mwyn sichrau bod yna llety parhaol yn mynd i gael ei greu, ac aros, ar camp-ws y Brifysgol.

Ers nifer o blynyddau mae prifysgolion Cymru wedi bod yn hysbysebu ei llety siaradwyr Gymraeg yn rhygl ac yn an-nog y Cymry i fynd yno. Mae Caerdydd, Aberystwyth a Bangor yn cael ei adna-bod am y llety ar gael yn Senghenydd, Pantycelyn ac JMJ ac mae yna nifer o myfyrwyr yn aros yno am fwy nag un blwyddyn.

Mae gan y Brifysgol opsiwn pan ry-dych chi yn dewis llety i fynd efo myfyr-wyr Cymraeg, ond fel arfer mae’r opsiwn wedi cael ei claddu o dan nifer o opsi-ynau arall mae yna nifer o myfyrwyr yn anwybyddu.

Roedd Gwenallt Jones yn digon ffo-dus i pigo allan yr opsiwn Cymraeg ond mae’n dadle fod angen fwy o hysby-

sebu fod y llety ar gael; ‘Roeddwn i heb syniad yn wreiddiol am y llety Cymraeg ond penderfynais i mynd amdano pryd roeddwn i wedi gweld y bocs. Roeddwn i’n ffodus bod fy mam yn mynd dros yr opsiynau efo fi, neu byddai wedi sgipio pobeth a colli fe! Roeddwn i’n gwybod am Senghenydd a Panty yn Aber ond trwy edrych ar propectws Abertawe, roeddwn i efo ddim syniad amdano’r opsiwn yn y Tawe.’

Roedd Hannah Sams, myfyriwr o Gaerfyrddin heb gweld yr opsiwn ac mae hi yn credu dylai’r Brifysgol pend-erfynu am un adeilad i hysbysebu fel llety Cymraeg, a sicrhau fod rhai lloriau yn yr adeilad yn cael ei cadw am myfyr-wyr Cymraeg.

‘Roeddwn i efo dim syniad fod llety Cymraeg i gael nes ar ôl i mi symud i Abertawe. Bues i ddigon ffodus i cwrdd efo pobl a oedd ar y llawr Cymraeg ac oherwydd hynny roeddwn i efo’r hyder

i gario ymlaen siarad Cymraeg ac i fynd i digwyddiadau efo’r GymGym. Yn fy marn i, dylai myfyrwyr sydd yn cael ei ddanfon allan i siarad yn Prifysgolion Cymraeg cael ei hyfforddi ac annog i pwysleisio yn fwy bod yna llety ar gy-fer myfyrwyr Cymraeg i cael pobl i syl-weddoli bod yr opsiwn ar gael. Mae yna nifer o myfyrwyr Cymraeg yn mynd i Aber oherwydd Pantycelyn felly bydd hi’n dda os fydd yna un adeilad yn cael ei defnyddio pob blwyddyn ac yn cael enw am ei hunan fel y lle i myfyrwyr Cymraeg yn Abertawe.’

Mae’r GymGym ac Academi Hywel Teifi yn bwriadu gweithio’n agos efo’i gilydd dros y misoedd nesaf i sichrau fod my-fyrwyr sydd yn mynd allan i siarad efo ysgolion Cymraeg yn annog disgyblion i dewis yr opsiwn Cymraeg am llety.

Rydw i hefyd yn bwriadu gweithio efo’r Undeb Myfyrwyr i ceisio annog y Brifys-gol a gwasanaethau preswyl i

penderfynu ar un safle parhaol am siar-adwyr Cymraeg i aros, eleni mae’r llawr Cymraeg yn Penmaen ond dau mlynedd yn ol roedd y llawr yn Oxwich ac wedi newid safle nifer o weithiau dros y blyny-ddoed, o gymharu efo Pantycelyn,

sydd wedi bod ar agor am 35 mlynedd ac wedi lleoli dros 4,000 o siaradwyr Cymraeg. Os rydych chi eisiau cymryd rhan yn yr ymgyrch, ebostiwch [email protected].

Williams, drwmwr y band ac Elgan Rob-erts (Bob) ar y bass. Amlwg iawn oedd bod y band wedi cael dylanwad gan lawer o fandiau megis Sublime, Street-light, Manifesto, Youngblood Brass Band, Anweledig, Caban, Hanner Pei, RHCHP. Dywedon, “Mae ein caneuon yn tueddu i fod yn straeon (rhai yn anweddus!) am unigolion (gwir a ffug), neu am brofia-dau. Yn aml mae’r gwrandawyr yn gallu cyfeirio gyda’r caneuon, ac ein prif nod fel band yw cael hwyl ac i’r gynulleidfa gael mwynhau ein cerddoriaeth.”

Dechreuodd y grwp wrth i Lewis ag Elgan jamio yn gyson, wedyn ymunodd Gruff ac Elis (sydd bellach wedi gadael

Un o fandiau mwyaf newydd olygfa’r byd cerddorol Cymraeg yw Helyntion Jôs y Ficar, grŵp o fech-gyn ifanc, sydd nawr yn mynychu prifysgolion dros Gymru, ond yn wreiddiol o Benllyn ag gyda’r run basiwn o greu cerddoriaeth yn yr iaith Gymraeg.

Mae ei fiwsig yn gyfuniad o Ska, Funk, a Reggae sydd yn cyfuno cefndiroedd a dylanwadau cerddorol gwahanol yr holl aelodau o’r band, sydd yn rhoi sŵn unigryw i’r band. Cwrddais gyda Lewis

Y GORNEL GYMRAEGCyfweliad unigryw efo’r band myfyrwyr Helyntion Jôs y Ficar!gan Glesni [email protected]

y band oherwydd gwahaniaethu cerd-dorol), yna i ymestyn dewision gael adran fras, sef Peredur a Gutun. Dy-wedon ei fod “yn mwynhau chwarae’n Gymraeg gan fod yn bwysig cadw ym-wybyddiaeth yr iaith gymraeg ag yn ffordd o hybu’r iaith, hefyd mae rhythm cerddorol naturiol i’r iaith. Felly mae’n bosib defnyddio’r geiriau mewn ffordd rythmig sydd yn plethu i’r gerddoriaeth.”

Hyderus iawn yw’r helyntion i rannu eu cerdd ac wedi bod yn llwyddiannus iawn yn ei gwneud hefyd. Cystadlodd ym Mrwydr y Bandiau Maes B, Wrecsam 2011. Yn anffodus ni fuon yn fuddugol ond fe gawson y profiad o chwarae ar yr

un llwyfan a bandiau da eraill, nid i son ei fod wedi chwarae yn un o nosweithiau’r Eisteddfod! Ac fel y buasai mam Lewis yn dweud, “y cymryd rhan sydd yn bw-ysig”.

Tra’n son am recordio, dywedon, “Wedi bod yn recordio mewn cwt sinc yn mynytho gyda ffrind (Sam Humphreys) er mwyn cynhyrchu demos (clywir nain cuba & el Aberdaron ar ein facebook”. Maent yn gobeithio recordio mwy o ddeunydd cyn yr haf gan fod Lewis yn astudio Technoleg Cerddoriaeth yn yr ATRiuM a gyda’r mynediad i adnoddau ardderchog.

Hwylus iawn yw cymryd rhan mewn gig, mae i’w gweld. Yn ôl Elgan Roberts, “Mae gigio yn lawer o hwyl, o gael rhoi pleser i bobl eraill drwy gerddoriaeth, yn ogystal ag cael peint neu ddau.” Ar hyn o bryd mae Helyntion Jôc y Ficar yn brysur yn trefnu ychydig o gigiau dros gyfnod y Nadolig, ac wrthi’n trefnu i chwarae yn Steddfod Rynghol ym Mangor y fl-wyddyn nesaf. Wrthi’n siarad am gigiau, daeth yn ôl ac atgofion melys “Roedd un o gigs olaf yr hâf yng Ngŵyl Pen Draw’r Byd yn Aberdaron yn un o ein ffefryn-nau fel band, roedd pawb wedi gwasgu i mewn i dŷ newydd oherwydd y glaw, a chawsom dderbyniad ardderchog, a hefyd cawsom brofi geiriau’r gan El Yn Aberdaron!”

Mae tim pel-droed y Gymdeithas Gymraeg wedi cael dechreuad wych i’w flwyddyn gyntaf yn cynghrair 5-pob-ochr Play Football, ac yn sefyll yn uchel iawn i fyny’r tabl.

O dan arweiniad Dylan Huws, capten chwaraeon y GymGym, mae’r tim yn mynd i mewn i’r gwyliau Nadolig yn ei-stedd yn ail, ac wedi cael gemau gwych yn erbyn y timoedd a oedd ar ben y cynghrair ac yn trydydd safle.

Ar ol colli dau gem bwysig gefn-i-gefn, roedd y GymGym rhaid chwarae Livestrong FC a oedd yn gyntaf ac yna i ddilyn, gem yn erbyn y tim yn trydydd, Richmond.

Yn y gem gyntaf, aeth pethau o ochr i ochr yn yr hanner gyntaf efo’r ddau tim yn arwain ond i’w wrthwynebwyr tynnu’r sgor yn ol yn gyfartal. Yn ffodus i’r GymGym, aeth yr ail hanner i’w ochr nhw a trwy nifer o symudiadau gwych rhwng Gareth Taylor ac Arwel Davies, roedd y sgor yn 8-5 efo dau funud i fynd. Penderfynodd y GymGym arafu’r gem i lawr ond roedd hyn bron a gwneud potch o’r gem, efo Livestrong yn sgorio dau gol gyflym ac yn anlwcus i ddim cael mwy wrth i’r gem beni 8-7 i’r GymGym.

Efo un gem newydd chwarae, roedd ffitrwydd i tim wir yn ddangos yn yr ail gem, ac efo’r sgor yn 8-8 ar diwedd y gem, roedd y tim yn ddiolchgar iawn o gol ddisglair Gwenallt Jones, a oedd wedi jyglo’r bel o amgylch tim Richmond cyn ei tharanu i mewn i to’r rhwyd.

December 12, 2011waterfrontonline.co.uk 9

front!L i f e s t y L e f o r s wa n s e a s t u d e n t s

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Fashion : Gifts for under £20>> 11

Music : Top albums of 2011>> 15

Film : Festive treats>> 16

Culture : Xmas around Europe>> 16

Gadgets : top five>> 17

Games : What not to buy this Christmas >> 17

Societies : Students write for human rights>> 18

Merry

Christmas

Photo by Chris P Jobling

fashion

11December 12, 2011waterfrontonline.co.uk

T h e Fa s h i o n T e a m w i s h e s y o u a h a p p y C h r i s T m a s & n e w y e a r

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This week Alice Simpkin speaks to heidi sevik, a 3rd year english student, about vintage, runway and … cravats?!Describe your styleVintage! whether it’s 1920s or flares or homemade stuff. something that’s one-off usually.Where do you get your inspiration from?i like runway designer stuff. i think that it is possibly the hardest fashion to mimic in real life obviously because it’s so couture. i have a wicked Chloe dress and it’s that perfect mix of structure and flowiness, it’s magical. Fabrics are the other really important thing for me. i won’t buy new fur but i think fake fur is really interesting or linen or silk. Who are your style icons?i don’t know. i like what designers put out specifically rather than celebrities.What is your favourite wardrobe item?my favourite thing that i’m most proud of in my wardrobe is my suit [worn to su awards 2011]. it’s so beautiful. it made me feel like i was in a gang as i was walking in. it’s like the f*****g princess thing, really hard but still amazing, really swish.

wardrobe?What’s in yourWhat is your item of shame? i’ve still got all my old school ties. They’re not nice; one of them is a cravat! it was the roughest school around but they made us wear a cravat!What is the one accessory or item you always turn to?Definitely my harley Davidson Boots. Good for all weather, really comfy and i feel like they’re going to last for the rest of my lifetime. They look scuffed but they’re not ripping anywhere. plus they’re harley Davidson ahhhh!Where are your favourite places to shop?in swansea definitely internationale i think that’s a wicked shop. The shoes are fantastic; a whole wall of shoes! Charity shops everywhere, really cheap ones or ones in London that only sell off label designer stuff. i like events like the vintage fair or clothes swaps, you bring 10 items so you can take 10 items.What is your key fashion tip?search through everything and you will find gems for very little money. if it’s over priced just don’t buy it, you’ll find something more original somewhere else.Last issue Sancha Worthington asked the eternal

question, thong or french knickers?!French knickers for mystery!What would you like to ask the next fashionista?if you could steal the wardrobe of one character from a film who would it be and why?

Nail Wraps duo set with Lookbook!£10

Calvin Klein boxers£18

under £20

Grey cable knit snood

Casio classic watch£20

@ asos.com Fur Turban Headband£7.50

Necklace hooks£12

Glitter clutch £18.50

3 Row pearl necklace£18.50

Shoulder patch t-shirt £16

Chino Belt £9

gift

the perfect Cath Kitson bath

set £7

DespiTe looming essay deadlines and exams approaching in January, we all know the students of swansea never turn down an oceana monday or wind street wednesday – and now there’s a trend to match what you’re drinking, writes Fran Lloyd. Both the catwalk and the high street this winter are overflowing with “boozy” colours – claret, burgundy, and cider – featuring in party outfits, everyday wear, accessories and essential knitwear to keep you warm as we get into December. perfectly matched with the cropped ankle trouser, the fur jacket, or any other bang-on trend, this pallet of colours is ideal for avoiding your wardrobe becoming as dark as the afternoons are becoming. not only do these colours look gorgeous with creams and beiges, pairing different ‘boozy’ colours together is also a great look as we end 2011 and move into 2012.

A ChristmasTipple Topshop

£30

New Look£19.99

River Island£13

features

12S t u d e n t S n a p S u p p h o t o g r a p h y awa r d

A Media Studies student has scooped a top photography award for his striking pictures

of the band McFly, writes Samantha Booth.

Akshay Gururaj got his opportunity by getting involved with CLIConline, an information and advice service for young people, funded by the Welsh Government.

“My course offered me the opportunity to get involved with CLIConline and I was asked to do the photography at a Westlife concert. They were really happy with my pictures and since then I was asked to cover a McFly concert at Cardiff Motorpoint Area.”

Akshay came out on top in an awards ceremony hosted CLIConline at the National Museum in Cardiff.

“Earlier this month, they had a selection of five best photographers and I was successfully short listed,” said Akshay.

“After the closing of voting online

and verdicts from the judges, I won the Photographer of the Year Award.”

Fascinated by cameras from a young age, Akshay, from Bangalore, India, discovered his passion for photography when playing with an analogue camera owned by his father.

Now 21 years-old and in his third year of BA Media Studies at Swansea University, Akshay is perfecting his photography skills and being noticed for his natural talent.

“When analogue became digital I invested in an SLR camera and this has fuelled my challenge to succeed and has become my profession.

“After I’ve graduated, I plan to start my own company in India in photography and then hopefully develop into the film industry.”

To get in the festive mood, Akshay has big plans for to add to his portfolio this season:

“For the holidays, I will be off to Norway to capture the Northern Lights. I’m really excited!”

A Rare Talent Rewarded

Above, Akshay Gururaj at the CLIConline Awards Ceremony

Westlife at the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena

Left, a view from Westminster Bridge, London, at twilight

The winning photograph: McFly at the Cardiff Motorpoint Arena

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Talking TurkeyVicky Barber reports on university life in Baltimore.

THANKSGIVING, an American holiday dedicated to the

celebration of food. It’s ironic that a country known as ‘The Obese Nation’ would need a weekend to give thanks for such a thing. Thanksgiving for Americans is like Christmas for the British; the arrival of family that only visits once a year, an excessive turkey roast and afternoon naps in front of an open fire. An entire day surrounded by bickering family members and distant cousins is not my idea of fun - perhaps this is why the liquor cabinet and wine supply takes such a hit at family occasions.

I am a proud member of a sorority that claims to enjoy their food as much as they enjoy their men, and Thanksgiving is apparently one of the greatest days of the year. For one whole day, women can eat their body weight in roast turkey and pecan pie without an ounce of judgement. Imaginably it is the fast flowing wine that distracts people from anything other than their overflowing plate and the sound of their own voice. Nonetheless, with every sip of alcohol and mouthful of food, the bickering appears to diminish. The Americans clearly know the key to a successful family occasion.

Being fortunate enough to have a good friend with a wealthy uncle, I spent Thanksgiving weekend in a beautiful house in the Connecticut suburbs. A bed not made of plastic and my first home-cooked meal in three months was enough to generate my thanks. Curled up on a plush leather sofa in front of an open fire, the morning was spent watching the infamous Thanksgiving Parade. Bands, Singers, Disney Stars and Old-Timers exhibit themselves on decorated floats. They mime and wave at the citizens of New York City, their smiles so rigid one would assume they were botoxed. If you were expecting something minimal and classy you will be severely mistaken. For watching the Thanksgiving Parade is like watching Cliff Richard’s Christmas premier on This Morning. You cringe so hard your jaw aches.

After a morning of mind-numbing television and regular nap intervals it is time to make oneself presentable for hours of family photos. Smiling through gritted teeth and saying ‘Cheese’ at the camera man until you’re blue in the face works up an appetite for a turkey dinner. With a plate piled high with mashed potatoes, turkey breast, home-made stuffing and the brussel sprout casserole your grandmother wouldn’t let you refuse, there’s enough food on the dining room table to feed a starving nation. The plates are licked clean in under an hour. Tears are brought to one’s eyes at the thought of the pie warming

in the oven. Without an utter of the words: ‘No, Thank You’ the family commence their second course. The evening finally comes to an end as families across the US fall into a food coma: 20lbs heavier and dreaming of tomorrow’s

turkey sandwich. Now, there’s something to give thanks for. Pic by Benn Wolfe

It’s Serious: Even The Chocolate Advent Calendar Has To GoTHE last two weeks of dieting and

trying to lose weight have gone surprisingly well; I have lost 4lbs,

Shane has lost 3lbs and Sian has lost 1lb. We are continuing to have three good,

healthy meals a day and we are still managing to avoid snacking – just!

The only time we have really caved during the past fortnight is on our housemate’s birthday. Eleri turned 20 last week and so, we all went out for a meal to celebrate – and where better than Nandos? Let’s face it; no one can resist the legendary Portuguese Peri-Peri Chicken. We decided not to hold back as we were celebrating our friend’s birthday and because everyone deserves a treat sometimes. Both Shane and I had a chicken burger, chips and spicy rice whereas Sian had half of a chicken, chips and garlic bread.

However, the reason that none of us gained any weight is because we are still continuing to do lots of exercise and eat healthily; Sian feels that she has only lost 1lb due to having half of a chicken. This shows that you can treat yourself sometimes, just as long as you’re willing to keep up the exercise and not go totally

off the rails. So, Christmas is coming up and there is no denying that the food is a large part of this holiday. It will be so easy to gain weight with the amount of food and drink that will be surrounding us and the festive spirit is so encouraging. There are however, a few things that we can do to avoid piling on the pounds.

First of all, I intend to do more exercise

than I usually do just so I don’t have to stress too much over having an extra Yorkshire pudding or having a piece of cake. For example, I will go to the gym for an hour instead of 45 minutes.

I also feel it is important to remember moderation. It is easy to get over excited with food and pile it all on the plate - there is nothing wrong with enjoying all of the nice foods, just do it in moderation.

Did you know that alcohol consumption increases dramatically during the festive period? And in December, Britons drink 41% more than the annual monthly average. It is important that we remember not to get too carried away and if try and stick to the healthier alcohol options such as Malibu and diet coke or Archers and diet lemonade.

This year, my mum has even replaced my usual chocolate advent calendar with a plain picture one and a punnet of strawberries – bless! So instead of opening the door every morning and getting a chocolate treat, I open one and have a strawberry from the fridge. I admittedly miss the chocolate, but it will all be worth it in the end!

Jazz Dicker continues her weight loss diary

THE Christmas shopping frenzy is well underway, and this year shoppers are facing an additional expense that they may well not have budgeted for, writes Rachael Sharp.

On October 1st Wales was the first UK nation to enforce a carrier bag charge on shoppers. The general opinion has, so far, been positive, but how will shoppers and businesses react to the extra cost of an already expensive Christmas?

Although the new levy intends to reduce the number of bags issued by shops, described by the Welsh Government as ‘excessive’, a recent survey by Cardiff University has revealed that the majority of shoppers are unclear on the reasons behind the change. Many assumed the money made by the charge is funded to the government and were unaware that, instead, profit from the charge

is supposed to be distributed among environmental charities (although 9% of businesses have stated they shall be keeping the money themselves).

Despite this confusion 70% of 600 interviewed shoppers were found to agree with the charge, and the positive effects it would have on the environment.

The law stipulates that businesses may charge more per carrier bag if they see fit, but 5p is the minimum and the only exceptions include unwrapped food items, loose seeds and bulbs etc.

Unlike the Republic of Ireland which has also enforced a carrier bag charge, the Welsh levy additionally extends to paper bags, a point frequently missed by the public. Despite their recyclable nature, Environment Minister John Griffiths stated that paper bags “are just as damaging to the environment because they break easily, often cannot be reused and, just like plastic bags, are an unnecessary use of resource.”

With the majority of the public in support of the change, the number of bags given out by shops has dropped by 95% and sales of Bags for Life have rocketed between six and 13 times since the introduction. However, some view the charge as just another unwarranted tax in times when living costs are forever increasing. It will be interesting to note how opinions change during the busy Christmas shopping period.

Hidden extra cost of shopping for presents

TEN unemployed people from France have been visiting Swansea to improve their English and their job prospects, writes Samuel Laporte. Florence Antoine, one of the group who is working in the student travel shop on campus, said: “My job at the university is a huge chance for me because I have contact with students and staff of various nationalities. This allows me to practice English and learn to understand English spoken

with many different accents.” Florence, who previously worked as a flavourist, is hoping her improved language skills will give her an edge in the jobs market back home. The language students, who are aged from 20 to 55, will do more intensive study before taking an exam. The qualification is much in demand by French employers who are increasingly seeking workers fluent in English.

French students learn to love the English language

front row

music

2 OSPREYS VS. SARACENS Liberty Stadium, Friday 16th December 8pm £12

The Heineken Cup Returns! The Liberty Stadium plays host to the round 4 fixture versus Saracens. The St Albans team travel to South Wales in search of an entry to the next stage of the competition...a hard feat in Ospreylia! After their last clash it really will be a heated match! Tickets available from the box office in Fulton.

3 BLAZE BAYLEY Sin City, Friday 16th December 7.30pm £8

A special night of Beers and Heavy Metal from former IRON MAIDEN and WOLFSBANE frontman BLAZE BAYLEY, one of the original stalwarts of British Metal! NOT TO BE MISSED. Support from Metallers, THE EXILED, BLACK TAMANOUS & DISARM GOLIATH. Bands start 8pm.

4 GUNS 2 ROSES - XMAS ROCK’N’ROLL PARTY Sin City, December 23, 7.30pm

Sin City starts Xmas with A BIG BANG!! by bringing back one of the finest tribute bands in the UK.... The Guns 2 Roses Xmas Party Friday 23rd December 2011 Doors : 7.30pm Age : 16+ ..includes FREE ENTRY TO FACEOFF

5 NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY / SIN CITY

5TH BIRTHDAY BASH Sin City, Sat 31st Dec 10.30pm £5

SIN CITY invite you to the Biggest Night of the Year... and the Biggest Party of the Year.. cos it’ll be a Double Celebration!! NEW YEAR’S EVE and SIN CITY’S 5TH BIG BIRTHDAY BASH! We’ll be partying all night with the FACEOFF DJs!! Come and join us! Tickets are availbale from the box office

6 WILEY LIVE - EVOLVE OR BE EXTINCT TOUR

Sin City, Jan 31st, 10pm £12

Wiley is known as ‘the godfather of grime’, since it is widely regarded he is a pioneering influence in the grime scene, and he is also notable for his exceptional work-rate. Wiley has been one of the biggest artists in the history of the genre, releasing eight albums. Wiley founded Eskibeat Recordings in 2007.

7 PERFORMANCE ARTS - A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Swansea Taliesin Centre, Dec 8th, 7.30pm £11Scrooge is a terrible miser – but he can’t be all bad. He could hardly become so beautifully transformed at the end of the story if he never had the potential in the first place.The ghosts are not so frightening – well maybe just a little bit scary. They lead Scrooge down the roads of the past, present, and future because he wants to see everything that they can show him.

8 THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN-THE SECRET OF THE UNICORN

Swansea Taliesin Centre, 19th Dec 7.30pm Tintin and Captain Haddock set off on a treasure hunt for a sunken ship commanded by Haddock’s ancestor. But someone else is in search of the ship.

8 t h i n g s w o r t h g o i n g o u t f o r - B y t y l e r j a m e s

ILOVEMONDAYS :: THE ANNUAL SNOW BALL :: FEATURING: MISHA B

Oceana, December 12th, 8pm, £7The annual snow ball

With an exclusive performance by X-Factor’s Misha B! With over 2,000

students every year this event sells out, so don’t delay getting your tickets! It’s a

black tie event so no matter what you’ve been up to this year, the Snow Ball is

perfect way to end the year with a little class! Red carpet entrance, champagne reception & live music after the busiest

year of events we’ve ever had, we’re going all out and giving everyone the

red carpet treatment and a glass of bubbly on arrival in the Bar Quarter!

With a real snow cannon, Vodka Ice Luge and festive decoratitions, it’s a

wonderball evening...

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albums singlesColdplay Mylo XylotoColdplay has received its fair share of criticism since forming in 1996, writes Daniel Clifford. Like all noteworthy bands, Coldplay always try to please avid fans that bask in the melancholy and retrospect of songs like ‘Fix You’ and ‘Yellow’, whilst constantly striving to progress musically. ‘Mylo Xyloto’ oozes energy throughout, like vibrant pop-based ‘Hurts like Heaven’, making even the harshest critics start to tap their feet. ‘Every Tear Drop is a Waterfall’ and ‘Paradise’ combine catchy hooks with an optimistic outlook, unlike Coldplay’s earlier creations and Rihanna’s collaboration on ‘Princess of China’ works effortlessly. Check out Coldplay’s latest reincarnation.

Michael BubléChristmasI confess; I do have a slightly unhealthy love for Michael Bublé, writes Esther Wright. His new ‘Christmas’ album (which will no doubt be on repeat this year in the Wright household), is a compilation of timeless festive covers. From Mariah’s melodic ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’, to a masculine take on ‘Santa Baby’; Bublé continues to add his classy style. Surprisingly, Bublé even covers traditional but loved oldies like ‘Ave Maria’ and ‘Silent Night’, finished off with smooth vocals. It’s finally December, so you have a legitimate excuse to listen to Christmas songs! If you fancy having yourself a very Bublé Christmas, this album is a must-have.

LabrinthEarthquake (Ft. Tinie Tempah)Chart toppers Labrinth and Tinie Tempah that brought you ‘Pass Out’ and ‘Frisky’ team up to create the synth explosion ‘Earthquake’, writes Megan Gullam. The track’s rough electronic sounds create a massive club hit. The bass-rich production keeps you on your toes and the ‘A capella’ breakdown is impressive as an encore from the producer/artist that released ‘Let the Sun Shine’. ‘Earthquake’ demonstrates the exciting chemistry between both artists, but this time Tinie takes the supporting role. Tinie delivers an impeccably timed, energy bolstering rap verse that enhances the track, without stealing the limelight. Tinie’s right: this song feels like a straight ten on the Richter scale!

ArchitectsDevil’s IslandArchitects, once one of U.K’s finest hardcore bands, has gone off the radar in recent years, writes Elliot Holman. This year’s ‘The Here and Now’ sees the melodic metal band that showcased so skilfully on albums ‘Hollow Crown’ and ‘Ruin’, resign to a lighter, less technical sound - a trend that latest single ‘Devil’s Island’ follows. Although heavier than recent material, ‘Devil’s Island’ fails to recapture glory from previous work, by pandering to the mainstream with clean vocals. The numerous clash chords and heavier vocals suggest an attempt to return to their musical roots, but ‘Devil’s Island’ fails to gain any musical redemption

WHEN pressing play on The Exiled’s debut EP ‘Break the Chains’, it is easy to assume that

their music will fit the Heavy Metal cliché of being virtually inaudible before being drowned in a lengthy guitar solo. As a first studio effort for the Swansea-based band who formed in 2008, it’s important they get it right.

So when greeted with a sound both balanced and melodic, the finger strays from the pause button and the feet begin to tap. Guitarists Harry and Rich opt for slick, duel guitar harmonies instead of playing notes at finger-melting speeds, whilst vocalist James Andrews sounds like the monster from under the bed, providing a formidable layer to each track.

When asking Andrews what sound the band wanted to achieve on their record, he said: “Most of the tracks we had been practicing for a while, so we had a pretty good idea of how we wanted them to sound. We got what we wanted and with certain parts of the songs, even more.”

The Exiled hope that with this first EP, it will: “lead us on to the ultimate goal; getting signed and releasing a full length album.”

Andrews certainly doesn’t lie about their tracks being rehearsed, as each song is blended perfectly with crushing rhythms to perforate the eardrums.

Their music is a mix of thrash metal and melodic death metal taking influence from a variety of American and Scandinavian metal scenes.

The Exiled clearly want to expand their fan base as Andrews explains that “one trend we have found is that the more shows we play, the more shows we get for the future”.

Their EP sounds like they won;t be content until they dominate the Metal genre. So, for those who enjoy their metal; see The Exiled live at Sin City on Friday, December 16. If they are as good live as they are on record, then The Exiled are a must see!

Since 2005, X Factor winners have dominated the UK’s Christmas Number One position, with exception to RATM in 2009’s Facebook campaign. Once again, we see numerous promising acts trying to obtain the Christmas Number One spot. Rumoured contenders include Nirvana, The Wombles, Amy Winehouse and even TOWIE. Nirvana being second favourite to win, due to ‘Nevermind’ album rerelease earlier this year and its support from over 100,000 Facebook members already suggests winning may be within arms reach. TOWIE’s cover of Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’ will attract fans of the TV show to buy their single. Other contenders like The Wombles

and Bieber will encourage individuals to prevent X Factor’s sixth win within the past seven years. A handful of the contenders will give their song’s earnings to a charity of their choice, including ‘Rhythmix’ (Nirvana) and ‘Text Santa’ (TOWIE), but it’s still left to ask... who will you support?

By Alex Ward

Do you think a band or genre should be featured? E-mail us at [email protected]

The Christmas Contenders 2011

If you are interested in seeing Swansea’s Own ‘The Exiled’. Check them out live at Sin City on December 16th.

The Exiled: Swansea Band Releases First EP

Music Writers’Top 15 of 2011

1. Adele – 21 2. Lady Gaga – Born This Way3. Rihanna – Loud 4. Jessie J – Who You Are5. Bruno Mars – Doo Wops and Hooligans6. Foo Fighters – Wasting Light7. Florence and The Machine – Ceremonials8. Coldplay – Mylo Xyloto9. Kasabian – Velociraptor!10. Ceelo Green – Lady Killer11. Arctic Monkeys – Suck It and See12. Bon Iver – Bon Iver 13. Noel Gallagher – Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds14. Ed Sheeran – + 15. Chase and Status – No More Idols

By Alex Gibbs

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filmculture

Arthur Christmas

From Aardman, the creative team behind Wallace and Gromit and Chicken Run, comes a festive tale that tells the story of the ‘Christmas’ family. One Christmas, a child was missed from Father Christmas’s list - it would seem he didn’t check it twice. Whilst Father Christmas’s oldest son Steve (Hugh Laurie) seems content to let this slide, the younger of the Christmas siblings, Arthur (James McAvoy) is set on making sure this child gets her present before sunrise. With the past performances of Aardman, Arthur Christmas seemed to fall a little flat. Yes, it has the in-jokes and charm of all other Aardman creations, but it just felt as if everything had been toned down to appeal to the mass audience. The voice talents on show are a who’s who of British talent, James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy, Jim Broadbent and Imelda Staunton to name a few, all providing plenty of character to the film. Although Arthur Christmas gives you a fill of festive cheer, ultimately it is an easily forgotten film.

The Santa Clause (1994) By Roisin O’Connor

This fantasty-dramedy is high on the list for the best films to watch at Christmas. Tim Allen is superb as Scott Calvin; the self-absorbed, divorced business man who unintentionally accepts the job of being Father Christmas due to a clause of the job. Eric Lloyd provides eye-popping wonder as Calvin’s son Charlie; who helps to convince people that his father in fact the real Santa Claus. Watching it in 2011- a time when more attention is paid to the special effects than the film itself - doesn’t take away the magic of this good old-fashioned family film. With a killer script along with Allen’s excellent delivery, makes an old favourite that is sure to appear on your television screens at least once this Christmas.

The Muppets Christmas Carol (1992) By Michael Samuel

For me, it’s rare to actually enjoy a Christmas film that is actually about Christmas. However The Muppets Christmas Carol is the quintessential Christmas movie. A colourful and

musical take on Dickens’ timeless fable, sees Disney recast characters Bob and Mrs. Cratchit with Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy; Rizzo the Rat as the narrator and the beloved Gonzo as Dickens himself. In Muppets splendour, the human cast features Michael Caine as the chilled, old Ebenezer Scrooge. The Muppets Christmas Carol is a delightful, hilarious, sing-along Christmas classic, which you cannot help but watch year after year.

Die Hard (1988)By Andy Williams

Given the nature of violence and colourful language, one may be forgiven in thinking Die Hard is not a Christmas film. However, it is. As anyone who has seen the film will know, certain scenes would be impossible without the Christmas theme (“Now I have a machine gun, ho ho ho” for example). Telling the story of being trapped in the Nakatomi Plaza with 30 hostages, one man breaks free and attempts to bring down these terrorists (“ha ha, who said we were terrorists?”) Die Hard is a Christmas staple and would be hard to imagine yuletide greetings without it.

Festive Feast of FilmOur top three Christmas movies of all time

PREVIEW Alvin and the Chipmonks 3: Chip-Wrecked Following the first and second films, this third installment follows the much used ‘on vacation’ plot device, putting Alvin and his cohorts on a cruise. Ultimately, they end up overboard and it’s up to Jason Lee’s Dave to find them and bring them back safe. No doubt there will be hilarity on the way. Released 16th December.

reviewBy Andy Williams

16K E E P I N G Y O U U P T O D AT E W I T H T H E S I LV E R S C R E E N

Swansea Markets

SWANSEA Christmas Market is now open on Oxford Street. The rows of wooden chalets offer Welsh and Continental stalls, with a great selection of festive foods and perfect presents for everyone, writes Esther Wright.

There are craft stalls like Shabby Chicks, which offers vintage style home crafts, wooden ornaments and Christmassy candles, or even the Welsh Slate Shop selling wine racks and other decorations.

If you’re in town and feeling hungry, then look no further. Hot food ranges from crêpe stalls

and German sausages, burgers and barbeque, to authentic Carmarthenshire Hog Roasts, roast chestnuts and the Sugar Plum Cakery.

If it’s edible gifts you’re after, then stalls like Teifi Farmhouse Cheese & Organic Whisky are a must visit, as well as the many other stalls that sell Welsh and Continental cheeses, alcoholic gift sets, preserves and more.

The stalls are open 10am – 6pm weekdays and Saturdays, until December 18th.www.swanseachristmas.com

Christmas Around The WorldGermany

CHRISTMAS is a very special event for everyone. The fun starts a month before Christmas Day when all the markets open, writes Linda Menzel.Most popular is the food, the famous Glühwein (mulled wine) and Bratwurst. Those markets spread the Christmas atmosphere all over the cities. On December 24, families gather together to celebrate. In the morning the Christmas tree gets decorated and then people go to Church to see the nativity play. Afterwards there is a big dinner, which is different from region to region. After dinner is the moment everyone has been (secretly) waiting for: the presents. The evening will end with everyone enjoying, exploring and showing around their presents.

NorwayCHRISTMAS is celebrated on Dec 24, writes Rannveig Aarens. People go to church around noon with their family before heading home for lunch, which traditionally is rice porridge. Hidden in the porridge is an almond and whoever gets the almond wins a prize. In the evening everyone gathers for a meal which would be either pork, salted cod or what Norwegians call ‘stick meat’ - made of lamb. Presents are opened in the evening, and are traditionally delivered by ‘Julenissen’ the Norwegian Santa. Over last few decades it has become tradition to watch a movie called ‘Three Nuts for Cinderella’. Christmas in Norway is great – after all Father Christmas is from somewhere very up North!

SpainSOL is the centre for liveliness in Spain’s capital, writes Sarah Samuel. Populated with entertainers, mainly cartoon characters, they aren’t the only thing at Madrid’s centre to undergo a Christmas makeover. Spongebob can regularly be seen donning a Santa hat. Santa Claus is a rare sight at the holidays, with Spain being more focused on the three kings, who, for the past week have been situated underneath the huge Christmas tree in the form of a mariachi band. Taking the Metro from Sol, the stations echo smooth-jazz overtures of Christmas tunes. Madrid is glamorous sometimes! When you choose to overlook the man without any arms, his pet rabbit and the plastic cup that he holds in his mouth and shakes – although he too is wearing a Santa Claus hat.

Do you want to review a cultural event? Email [email protected]


gadgets

Do you want to put a gadget or game in the spotlight? Email [email protected]

IT’S been a good year for gadgets, especially for Mobile platforms,

with the release of new versions of iOS, Android and Windows Phone. As well as Samsung and Amazon catching up with Apple in the race for the best tablet. That’s where we start, writes Richard Cowie.

Number 5: iPad 2Only a year after the original iPad, the iPad 2 capitalised on the huge market it created from nothing, proving that Steve Jobs could really predict the future. With a slimmer and lighter size it also brought a much needed price drop. It will be interesting to see if the iPad 3 appears in 2012.

Number 4: Nokia Lumia 800A much needed boost for struggling company Nokia, this phone could well yet change their luck and with its smooth Windows Phone interface, it’s certainly a very good looking phone.

Number 3: Nintendo 3DSWith complaints of eye strain and being too expensive, it’s hard to see why you would want a 3DS. One reason brushes all those aside. The ability to play one of the best games ever, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, anywhere anytime. Making this a must-have gadget.

Number 2: Amazon Kindle 6”

The latest version of the already extremely popular e-reader, at a competitive £89. With more and more books becoming available in digital formats, it makes a great Christmas present.

Number 1: iPhone 4SIt may not be the iPhone 5 but the 4S proves how great iPhones are. With Siri, you can have your own personal assistant in your pocket. No-one would complain if they opened one of these on Christmas morning.

Top 5 Gadgets of 2011 top apps

Top 5 Christmas AppsWith Christmas comes the inevitable deluge of festive Apps! Here are some of the most useful ones, says Richard Cowie:

Number 5: eBay

Every year there is always that present you don’t want, and eBay is all way a great place to buy presents, so combine the ability to buy and sell with the mobile eBay app, which has the ability to scan barcode, so you can immediately see how much that unwanted DVD is worth on ebay. Available on the App Store and Android Market.

Number 4: Vouchercloud

Want to get out the house this Christmas? Vouchercloud brings together great offers for restaurants and shops, with discounts such as 25% off your food bill at Pizza Express and 2 for 1 for Pizza Hut Delivery. This app will definitely save you money this Christmas. Available on the App Store and Android Market.

Number 3: Angry Birds Seasons

A festive version of the classic, with hundreds of new levels to celebrate Christmas and every other holiday in the year. Available on the App Store and Android Market.

Number 2: iFinger

Have problems wrapping your Christmas presents? Put in the dimensions of what you wrap and this app will work out how much paper you need to use and give you step by step instructions, great!

Number 1: Is it Christmas?

Are you a Scrooge? This humorous app will politely remind your friends, relatives or even strangers on the bus, that it isn’t December 25th just yet. Available on the App Store and Android Market.

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Don’t let these games put you off your sprouts, says Michael Kavanagh

What NOT To Buy This Christmas

Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympics If you take the time to select this from the shelf, what’s wrong with you? You deserve to be devoured by a chain-chomp (and you thought Jeremy Clarkson was controversial)! It’s utter drivel! If you like Sonic, get Sonic Generations. If you like Mario why not buy Super Mario 3D Land or Mario Kart 7 instead?

4Professor Layton and the Spectre’s Call (Nintendo DS, UK version)I’ve loved the

last Professor Layton games, and there’s nothing wrong with the actual gameplay on this. It is the blatant favouritism for other markets that really peeves me. For almost exactly the same amount of money, gamers outside of Europe will also receive a 100+ hour Professor Layton RPG! Not good value for money...

RageNot really a bad game, but a classic example of a product not living up to its hype. I was very much looking forward to this, but it just felt like a damp squib compared to other games. It suffers from a massive identity crisis. What is it trying to achieve?

Spider Man - Edge of Time‘Spider Man: Shattered Dimensions’? This is more like ‘shattered imaginations’. The game plays just like you’d expect a lacklustre platform/adventure game to. Forget about the near flawless Spiderman 2 from days of yore; this is an utter let-down.5

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3I don’t think I can say much more about this one, I’d be flogging a dead horse. Trust me, stick to the older C.O.D. games, and please don’t buy this!

WHEN it gets to the festive season I always find myself frantically scouring Amazon.co.uk until

the late hours of the 24th of December in search for appropriate gifts for my siblings or mates.

In the end I’ll usually cop out and run to the off licence for some booze to hastily wrap up. but that’s not a proper gift, right? Now, of course I’d love to buy the new releases of 2011 like Skyrim or Modern Warfare 3 for someone but at around £40 a pop it’s not exactly healthy for the old student loan.

So what’s a cheap alternative that’ll still be a great gift for Christmas? The online gaming community Steam holds the answer.

It has a vast selection of cheap and

fantastic indie games that you can easily purchase as a gift to send in an e-mail card to someone, even if they’re not a Steam user.

Titles like Limbo, the fascinating and eerie side-scroller, and Amnesia: The Dark Descent, one of the most disturbing games of 2011, are under £13. It’s a steal if you ask me.

Just go to store.steampowered.com to register. It’s a simple service to use and the indie genre is really making the market nowadays with cheap games that have the same quality and refinement as the big name sellers.

It’s quicker than knitting a Christmas jumper, at least.

By Jacques Tsiantar

Merry DovahkriistMas!

Steam Power The Answer For Poor Students

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18E n h a n c E y o u r s t u d E n t E x p E r i E n c E

Students get writing for prisoners’ human rights

society sPotLiGHtFoLLoWinG the success of the us tV series, the Glee society was established as an all-singing show choice. in its second year of existence, they describe themselves as very inclusive and open to performers of all abilities, writes Linda Menzel. Everyone is welcome to attend rehearsals as long as you enjoy singing, dancing and meeting new people. rehearsals are held on thursday evenings, and the society also holds social events on tuesdays.this semester’s highlight will be their christmas performance on the 12th of december in divas. there will also be a special appearance of the su comedy club. doors open at 7pm with tickets costing £5, with all profits going to tribe swansea, a charity that aims to improve the quality of life for the chibolya area of Zambia. Glee is also taking part in the performing arts christmas special including choral, drama, Musicians and dance societies on the 15th december. tickets are priced at £5 including a buffet and entry to sin city.For tickets or further details contact on [email protected]

Glee

Want to know more about societies? check out www.swansea-union.co.uk/societies

SWANSEA University Amnesty Society is hosting a campaign to remind everyone that the festive

period is not a period of joy, happiness and gluttony for everyone, writes James Langridge.

On 9th December, the day prior to World Human Rights Day, the Society is setting up a dedicated area in JCs to help their ‘Write For Rights’ campaign.

The campaign, endorsed by famous figures such as Steven Fry, involves sending a card to ‘Prisoners of Conscience’. These are people who have been imprisoned for their political beliefs and passive opposition.

The objective of the campaign is, that for every card or letter that is received, an official will be delayed and forced to readdress the situation of the individual involved.

Examples include Jabbar Savalan, an Azerbaijani who used Facebook to oppose the authoritarian government, and was then imprisoned on alleged drug charges.

Letters are also being sent to the Japanese Government to oppose the imprisonment of Hakamada Iwao, who has spent 43 years on death row for a crime of which he has never been convicted.

The society also sent letters in support to two Mexican women, Ortega and

Cantu, who were raped by military personnel. They are campaigning for the situation to be reviewed in the correct judicial manner.

These individuals, all of whom are suffering human rights abuses, need campaigns such as this to raise awareness and pressurise authorities into reviewing their situations.

As Amnesty President, Siobhan Hearne, says: “It is important to let the ‘Prisoners of Conscience’ know that they are not forgotten during the

festive period. Regardless of religious inclinations, Swansea University Amnesty Society will be campaigning for them.”

So, they are not asking for students to become radical militant activists, but to take a brief break from writing greetings cards and participating in Secret Santas to help Amnesty Society’s ‘Write For Rights’ campaign and help advance human rights issues. For more information, contact [email protected]

society News Roundup

Members of Swansea University Amnesty Society

Eid Ul AzhAthe pakistani society has celebrated its culture by organising a series of fundraising events including a cake sale, a henna stall, and an evening of traditional entertainment. the events, which took place on november 18th, celebrated Eid-ul-azha, which is one of the two most important days in the islamic calendar. the £101.95 raised went to ty hafan, a Welsh charity that offers help and support to families with seriously ill children.

hiSTORY FUNdRAiSiNG SUCCESS the history society has raised £236 for oystermouth castle through a series of bake sales, bikathons and the famous student V Lecturers pub Quiz, which the lecturers narrowly [email protected]

AEGEE - iNTERNATiONAl FiESTAaEGEE-abertawe is hosting an international Fiesta, celebrating cultures from music from 80 countries around the world.13th dec | £5 on the door | [email protected]

A JiNGlE BEll ROCk - PERFORmiNG ARTSthe performing arts of swansea union will provide a night of entertainment, with contributions from the dance society, Musicians’ society, Glee club, Gospel choir and the choral society.15th dec | £5 | divas [email protected]

hElP FOR hEROES - 1940S NiGhTthe students’ union raised over £500 for the help for heroes charity, helping injured military personnel. the event in oceana featured union officers and members dressed up in 1940s [email protected]

ROmE 2012 TRiP - dEPOSiTSthe ancient studies society are organising a trip to rome for april 2012, costing £400 and deposits of £200 are due in before the [email protected]

iNTERNATiONAl STUdENTS diNNERthe international officer, Mahaboob Basha has organised a christmas dinner for international students. tickets from the Box office. £3 adults | children are free | 21st dec | 10am | cafe [email protected] SOCiETY SUPPORT ClOSES FOR ChRiSTmAStom upton and rosie hunnam will not be available after 16th december. they return on the 9th January and most societies will resume after exams finish on 20th January. [email protected]

SPORT I 21 www.waterfrontonline.co.uk

Bucs cup and trophy round-up

Hearn aims to chase downhigh-flying Glamorgan

THE LAST 32 stage of the Bucs west-ern conference cup competitions took place on the 30th November. Due to adverse weather conditions some games were postponed for the following week.

There were six female teams playing in the last 32.

In badminton, the women’s 1sts played away at Bristol, and were on the end of a whitewash, losing 8-0.

Hockey 1sts progressed to the last 16 with a victory over Bristol 2nds, winning 2-0.

The hockey 2nds lost 4-1 to Cardiff Met 3rds.

It was a day to forget for the women’s 3rds,facing Cardiff Medics 1sts away and losing 16-0.

In netball, the 2nds slowly took con-trol against Cardiff Medics 2nds, win-ning comfortably in the end, 41-30.

The netball 3rds lost away to Cardiff 4ths 45-35.

There were 10 male teams in action for Swansea.

In hockey, the men’s 1sts played at home to Cardiff Met, winning 6-2.

Hockey 2nds were away to Cardiff Medics 1sts, and... (Find out Thursday).

The hockey 3rds were at home to Aberystwyth 1sts and produced argu-ably the shock of the round. Swansea kept it tight ending the game 2-2 in normal time, before the home side beat their northern opponents on penalties 4-3 to advance.

In football, the 3rds played at home against Newport 1sts, and... (Find out Thursday).

Football 4ths also played at home, but facing Aberystwyth 1sts, and... (Find out Thursday).

In rugby union, Swansea 3rds were away to Trinity St David, and... (Find out Thursday).

Rugby 4ths were also away, playing Cardiff 4ths, and... (Find out Thursday).

In squash, men’s 2nds were at home to Cardiff 2nds and faced a tough challenge, with Cardiff two places above them in the league, and lost 5-0.

The round of the last 16 in the Bucs trophy also took place, with six teams representing Swansea.

In women’s basketball, the 1sts took on Cardiff. The game was fast paced with Swansea with the home side running out eventual winners, 69-59.

In women’s netball, the 1sts took on Portsmouth in a hotly contested match which went down to the final whistle. Portsmouth had the better of the opening half but Swansea pushed them all the way, losing 35-33.

In men’s rugby union, 2nds played away to Hartpury and were beaten 26-14.

The men’s fencing team contin-ued to build on their current winning streak, taking the total to four in all competitions, by beating Plymouth 1sts 135-103.

In men’s football, the 1sts took on UWE away, and lost a tight game, 1-0.

And finally, in the badminton the men’s 1sts played Bath 3rds. They were outclassed, losing 8-0.

Ockwell feeling confident as footballers head for summit

by Craig [email protected] Sam Richards

[email protected]


CAPTAIN Lizzie Hearn is incredibly pleased with the form of Swansea University women’s rugby team after five straight wins in all competitions.

Swansea are second in the Bucs western 1A division after five league games winning four of the five.

Hearn said: “The girls this year are showing a lot of determination which is really paying off on the field.

Women’s rugby has grown in popu-larity this year and Hearn is pleased with the interest being shown.

She said: “We have more girls than we have ever had in the squad, and we are enjoying some good perfor-mances.”

The women’s team have continued their strong league run from last year finishing second just behind Bath Uni-versity 1sts.

The team have stepped up their scoring from last year, including their recent 62-0 win over Bristol University 1sts, and now have high ambitions for the rest of the season.

Their only defeat so far came in the season opener against current top of the table side, Glamorgan 1sts. Glam-organ remain unbeaten in the league after five games.

The game was a tight affair with Swansea narrowly losing 10-8.Swan-sea led 8-5 at half time but failed to make their dominance of possession count.

Hearn said: “We were the better team; to lose 10-8 is shocking. We had so many opportunities.

“We didn’t deserve to lose that game at all.

“And because of that, it made the girls doubly determined to come back and win the next week, which we did.”

Swansea followed this narrow de-feat with four wins in a row, including their last 32 win in the Bucs trophy.

The team’s second game of the sea-son was an away match against UWE 1sts. Hearn’s side won 20-7.

Swansea’s next game was the cup game against Plymouth 1sts which finished 17-0 in favour of the welsh side. Swansea played Plymouth again a week later, away in the league, win-ning 17-12.

The team followed up on the Py-mouth victories with their biggest win of the season, at home to Bristol Uni-versity 1sts 62-0.

The last game before christmas saw the women’s side face Gloucestershire 1st and won 7-0.

Hearn is very pleased with the team so far and highlights Jo Frazier-Reid in

particular. She added: “The girls this year have

really impressed. “Jo Frazier-Reid is just one who is

very new to the game and she has re-ally shone in the second row.”

Hearn believes that part of the suc-cess this season can be put down to a better structured training program which has seen Andy Williams brought

in to coach the team once a week.As well as the league, Hearn is very

much focused on lifting the Bucs rug-by union trophy.

Swansea takes on Nottingham Trent University 1sts in the last 16 of the cup in February.

She added: “It’s certainly a game we can win, home advantage is very im-portant.”

MEN’S football firsts captain Pete Ockwell believes Swansea can win the Bucs Western 1A division after a “brilliant” start.

Having won all their four league matches so far this season, and hav-ing amassed a goal difference of plus eight.

Ockwell is confident they will come out on top of the other five teams in the league.

He said: “All players have been play-ing at a very high standard.

“[However] no one has been con-sistently on fire for the whole season.”

The captain is confident that they can remain unbeaten at home this season.

He added: “We won’t be beaten at home. We should be five points ahead by Christmas, halfway through the season.”

This year’s squad was depleted fol-lowing a majority of the squad gradu-ating last summer.

A new coach, Nick Bowen, has also come in to improve the standards of the men’s side.

Ockwell is pleased with how the team has adjusted.

The changes has allowed him to fo-cus on his own captaincy without the burden of coaching as well (unlike the previous year).

“We lost eight players last year; we had to practically rebuild the squad.

“Having an outside figure, not a player [coach the team], has helped.

“It’s a lot of pressure taken off me.”After finishing fourth in the league

two years running, Swansea are look-ing poised to finish much higher this

TRY HARD: Swansea women’s rugby union 1sts

year.Promotion for the side is a definite

possibility.Ockwell added: “From where we are

now, I’d like to see us win the league.”Swansea played Exeter 1sts in the

season opener away, winning 3-1.Their next game was postponed

due to adverse weather conditions, and so the game against Plymouth still needs to be played.

Plymouth are third in the league with seven points, compared to Swansea’s 12.

Swansea’s next played game came against rivals Cardiff University away.

They managed to deal a blow to Cardiff months before Varsity, win-ning 1-0. Ockwell added: “I thought the lads’ battling was absolutely fantastic.”

It was not all positive for the men’s first team, as they were dumped out of the Bucs football trophy.

They travelled away to UWE 1sts, playing at the Almondsbury FC ground and were beaten 1-0 by the home side.

Swansea’s next game is against Ex-eter 1sts at home at the end of Janu-ary.

CLIMBING HIGH: Swansea men’s football 1sts

Photo: Kate Steinbach

22 I SPORT thewaterfront 209 12.12.11

Athletic Union and Waterfront’stribute to Welsh manager Speed

by Alex [email protected]

THE Waterfront is paying tribute to Wales manager Gary Speed, who was found dead at his home last month.

Swansea University has a great history of current and former stu-dents going on to represent their country, and while Speed was not a student here, he had a great his-tory of achievements at club and national level.

The 42-year-old was a member of the PFA team of the year in 1993 for his contributions to the Leeds Unit-ed side.

He was the first player to make 500 Premier League appearances as he turned out for various clubs in-cluding Everton, Leeds United, New-castle United and Bolton Wanderers.

Although not as decorated as oth-er players in his generation, Speed was a member of the Leeds side that won the league title in 1992.

In addition to this he was a proud Welsh man who represented his country at both under 21 and senior level with 85 caps for the full Welsh side - Wales’ most-capped outfield player.

Speed has always been a role model for aspiring young Welsh people, whether in a sporting ca-pacity or not.

His death will come as a great loss to his profession, in which he is held in extremely high regard, but his in-fluence will be felt for many years to come.

Craig Hadley, Waterfront’s co-sports editor said: “The sheer num-ber of tributes pouring in for Gary Speed shows you just how well liked he was.

“He was someone ever present in the top flight during my childhood.

“He was a true professional and an example to everyone who play the game.”

David Hendy, Waterfront’s co-sports editor said: “It is a very sad loss to the game.

“Speed was my childhood hero and seeing him eventually become Welsh manager was a brilliant ac-quisition for Wales.

“He had a difficult start to his time as manager of the national side however managed to do the im-possible and gave the Welsh public hope of our national side being able to win games.

“I’m saddened by the fact he is no

longer able to brighten up Welsh football, however this is my selfish side coming through, I’m more sad-dened for his family and friends and hope they are all coping as well as possible. God bless Gary Speed”.

Swansea University’s atheltic un-ion president, Dan Ryan-Lowes also paid tribute to Speed.

“It’s a massive loss to welsh sport, not only football but I think he was an inspiration to all welsh athletes,” he said.

“In the last year, Welsh sport has had a massive boom with the rugby World Cup and Gary Speed’s involvement in the Welsh football team.

“He seemed to reinstall some pride into the Welsh FA and with players like Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey long may that continue.”

Tributes have taken place throughout the football leagues as well as other sporting events such as the rugby union game between Wales and Australia.

A private funeral took place last week with his family and friends in attendance. A public memorial ser-vice will take place soon.

Nos Da Speedo. Courtesy of: Huw Evans Agency & WRU

SPEED TRIBUTE: Millennium Stadium pay tribute on the 3rd Dec

SPORT I 23 www.waterfrontonline.co.uk

Going for Gould basketball team remain unbeaten

SWANSEA University secured victory against fellow strugglers Bristol, but complacency is still continuing to plague the side.

Swansea lost their focus after 70 min-utes allowing Bristol to score their sec-ond try of the game.

Captain Richard Smart said: “We had a brilliant 70 minutes.

“We’re not used to being ahead, so the last 10 minutes we switched off.”

Swansea secured the win scoring four tries, the pick of them coming from a cross-field kick by the fly-half to the right-winger who scored in the corner.

Both sides received a yellow for foul play, although Bristol right-wing evaded a second after leniency over a stamping incident.

But Smart bemoaned the team’s drop in concentration.

“The concentration levels dropped in the last 10 minutes, and we need to get into the same attitude as we had last year where were winning games in the second half,” he added.

Gosney & Co sit top of the table after strong start

by Tom [email protected]

by Alex [email protected]

SWANSEA women’s hockey captain Becky Gosney believes a new focus on fitness and fun has had a positive impact on the team’s performance so far this season.

Gosney said: “We had a slow start, but recently we’ve picked up. We’ve really gelled together as a team and we’ve become a really strong side.”

Gosney has been impressed with the team and with certain members of the squad in particular. She said: “I think the team this year has so much talent.

“Carys Tucker and Kiera Davis have continued to give high performances. “Holly Walker in defence has been so solid and dependable. All of our Fresh-ers have really grown in confidence.”

Despite a six game winning streak, the women’s team tasted defeat after a close encounter with Bath 2nds in their opening game of the season.

Gosney added: “It was hard [to take]. “Everyone was really frustrated with that match. But everyone’s taken those points on board, and next time we’re going to get them!”

The captain believes the team’s

strong performances are due to their new training regime, founded on in-creased fitness and enjoyment for the team.

She added: “This year we’ve really worked hard on fitness. This gives us the upper hand over other teams when they begin to struggle with fa-tigue.

“We work really hard, twice a week on fitness, once a week on the pitch and two matches per week.

“But we still have the enjoyment fac-tor, we’re well known for our socials.”

Despite their fantastic record this season, Gosney is looking for further improvement.

She said: “We need to keep our com-posure. Sometimes, when we’re 2 – 0 up, everyone stops playing at such a high level [of intensity].”

Swansea’s skipper feels confident that the women’s team can hold onto the top spot in Bucs western 2B divi-sion. The team sit at the top following five league games, with a goal differ-ence of plus 12 equal to that of second placed Bath 2nds.

In addition to winning the league, Gosney believes the highlight of the year will be the Varsity match.

She said: “I think for everyone that’s

the biggest [game] of the year. As a fresher, I remember the build up for that is immense. It’s the game that eve-ryone wants to play.”

Last year Swansea’s hockey team picked up the victory winning a close fought match on penalties (7-6). Gos-ney is hoping for a more assured win

this time around.She added: “We want to get a con-

vincing win. After last year’s game went to flicks, it was so much pressure.”Finally, Gosney was keen praise her team after their success so far this sea-son: “I think the team this year has so much talent.

STICKING TO IT: Swansea women’s hockey 1sts

BASKETBALL captain Leo Gould be-lieves Swansea University’s men’s teams can achieve a top placed fin-ish this season.

The men’s first team are top of the Bucs western 2B division with four

wins from four.The men’s scoring this season has

been tremendous with a point dif-ference of plus 162. The team that comes closest to this is Cardiff Met with 98.

Swansea’s 1sts had a great start to the season away to local rivals Swan-sea Met. The team picked up an easy

victory 95-31. Their next game came against the

University of Glamorgan 1sts and Swansea once again saw off their op-ponents, this time at home, 92-75.

Another moment of Pre-Varsity joy for Swansea came when they beat Cardiff 2nds away on the 16th No-vember. The travelling team almost scored double Cardiff’s score, win-ning 96-59.

The final game before Christmas saw the men’s side beat Swansea 2nds 86-42.

Gould is tipping the first team for the title and has high hopes the sec-onds team can mount a strong chal-lenge also.

Gould said: “We’re hopeful of the first team winning every game in the Bucs league this season and therefore winning the title.

“I don’t feel that’s an unrealistic goal as we were unlucky not to get promoted last season, losing out on baskets scored.

“At the start of this season, we felt that our players were good enough to be playing in the division above and so that’s always been our target.”

Gould believes the profile of the men’s side has greatly been improved thanks to their scoring and perfor-

mances this season.He added: “We’ve gone from being

virtually unknown outside the Uni-versity to being one of the top teams in Welsh basketball within the last two years or so.”

Gould puts the success this season down to maintaining the nucleus of the squad and improved organisa-tion.

Gould said: “With regard to the men’s I think a big factor is the fact that we’ve held on to our players from the last couple of years, as well as adding several new faces.

“We’re also a lot more organised this season, and there’s a great amount of demand to be in our teams.”

The team have introduced new players to the side this year, but Gould is looking to ease them in, in their opening season.

“We’ve got a couple of freshers in the men’s first [team].

“But most are squad players for the first year, whilst they get some experi-ence under their belt.

“Some of these guys next year will definitely be starting for the first and second teams.”

The men’s next game will be against Cardiff Met in the cup at the beginning of February.

SLAMMING ALL: Swansea’s number 7, Buttifant, finishing expertly

Focus lost but rugby hold on to win gameby David [email protected]

Vital winfor Rudge’s ladies sideby Craig [email protected]

BETHAN Rudge said she was “very pleased and proud of her team” fol-lowing the women’s 2nds first win of the season.

“We had a great training session on Tuesday for the game, and it worked really well on the pitch, I’m really pleased,” she said.

Swansea’s fortunes could be turn-ing around following this week’s win at Fairwood.

The home side took the lead early on and this seemed to give Swansea new found confidence as they pushed for more.

Swansea felt aggrieved when Swan-sea Met were awarded a penalty which they duly dispatched.

Rudge and her team were fired up by the decision went at Swansea Met with added vigour.

Swansea scored two more goals to wrap up the important victory.

Rudge added: “We played really well as a team. We got the goal early on, and were on the up from then on.”

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL - 2nd team

SWANSEA SWANSEA MET 1sts

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MEN’S RUGBY - 1st team

SWANSEA BRISTOL 1sts

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thewaterfront

December 12, 2011 waterfrontonline.co.uk IN

SIDE

RUGBY UNION Women’s(07) Swansea 1st 7-0 Gloucs 1st

sportby David [email protected]

Selected Results (7 Dec)

RUGBY UNION Men’s(07)Swansea 1st 30-13 Bristol 1st

WALES’ rugby union assistant coach Rob Howley said his days at Swansea University helped shape him to be the man he is today.

Howley, fresh back from Rugby World Cup duty in New Zealand, graduated in 1992 with a BSc in management science.

“University life gives you discipline,” he said.

“It is up to you whether you go to a lecture or not, structure is pretty important to you in life.”

The main person that kept Howley grounded in his time here however was the University’s rugby coach Stan Addicott.

“He [Addicott] was fair, honest and I had huge amount of respect for him,” said Howley.

“If we had any problems, you’d al-ways go to Stan.

“He was Stan the man. He would always help you out.”

Howley admits to making the most his time at Swansea University, laughing when talking about the antics he and his fellow rugby team mates got up to on the infamous (but now largely defunct) Mumbles

Mile.“These stories are too dangerous to

tell, they are too scary,” he quipped.“The Mumbles Mile - I never finished

that. I got dragged to the last six pubs.”While there were laughs about his

time at university, he does have some regrets.

“I never made my graduation,” said Howley. “I was absolutely devastated.

“That year, it was the Students Rug-by World Cup in Sicily and unfortu-nately, rugby is prettyhigh up and we had no option [but to play in the competition].

“I have a plaque as my graduation, I was absolutely devastated because it is a proud moment for your parents as well as yourself and it was taken away from me.”

Howley’s extensive playing career seen him play for Bridgend RFC, Car-diff RFC and London Wasps where he scored the winning try in their Heineken Cup final match against Tou-louse at Twickenham in the 2003/04 season. He also had the honour of playing for Wales 59 times, scoring 50 points as well as featuring for the British and Irish Lions, touring both South Africa winning the series 2-1 and Australia losing the series 2-1. SWANSEA GRADUATE HOWLEY: Relives his university days before reaching fame

Swansea’sBucs top four teams- term onePages 21 & 23

(07) Swansea 2nd 6-6 Gloucs 3rd

Hadley & Hendy’s top uni sporting momentsSWANSEA University has seen some great moments over the first term and here are our personal highlights.

Co-sports editor, Craig Hadley said: “It would have to be Stacey Carey’s goal for the women’s firsts football team.

“The game was played against Swansea Met on October 19.

“She took the shot on from about 35 yards and beat the keeper.

“It rounded off a great day for the team who won 10-0.”

Fellow co-sports editor, David Hen- EDITORS & AU PRESIDENT: (from left to right) Hadley, Ryan-Lowes & Hendy

dy said: “Seeing the passion of the men’s seconds hockey team against Gloucestershire University.

“They went down to ten men and hung on for the draw.

“They could’ve lost it very late on.”Alex Roberts, deputy sports editor

said: “The last-minute winner from Chris Reed for men’s hockey to win 3-2.

“I’m a fan of twists and turns in a game, so to see such a quick turna-round at a late stage in the game was exciting.”

HOWLEY’S UNI DAYS

TENNIS Women’s(07) Plymouth 1st 12-0 Swansea 1stTENNIS Men’s

(07) Cardiff 1st 77-74 Swansea 1stRUGBY LEAGUE Men’s(07) Cardiff Met 42-28 Swansea 1st

BASKETBALL Women’s

Courtesy of: Huw Evans Agency & WRU

Issue 209

Documents

Transcript of Issue 209