Issue 225

FreeIssue 225

25 February 2013waterfrontonline.co.uk

thewaterfront

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t 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 yINSIDE

STUDENTS are planning to turn out in force against a White Pride march being staged in Swansea on March 9.

A poster circulating in the city, and which has appeared on the National Front’s website, calls on people to join “the UK’s first White Pride World Wide Day demo”.

Police fear it could attract white nationalists from across the UK, and even Europe, to Swansea.

The poster says: “Every year the United Nations has the international day for the elimination of discrimination, also known as Harmony Day. Whites around the world are subject to racial discrimination on a daily basis. You can take a stand against the racial discrimination of whites.”

It adds: “Regardless of the disputes you may possibly have with any other whites, this day is the day to show your pride. Put aside difference with fellow

whites and unite with them for the common goal of White Pride World Wide!”

Many Swansea students have already signed up to join the counter march being organised on Facebook.

One said: “The fact that an event like this is taking place in our time downright outrages me. This is a perfect opportunity for us to stand up against fascism in our country and show them that they’re not welcome. I feel that we all have a duty to take to the streets on the 9th and protect freedom for all.

“I will be there not just to counter demo, but to try and ensure that the white pride demo itself cannot even take place. I also urge everyone to remain peaceful in the day, and remember that there is safety in numbers.”

As we went to press, the Swansea

University students’ union executive was also expected to vote to officially support the counter march being organised.

Despite the poster being on the Swansea National Front’s website, the organisation has denied having any part in staging the campaign.

A spokesperson from the National Front said: “It is being arranged by white nationalists with no particular political party from all over the country. Whether our members go, we can’t say, but the National Front has not been organising the event.”

A spokesperson from the British National Party said: “We haven’t heard anything about it. I’ve got no problem with white pride, and nor should anyone else. If it had been a black pride march, everyone would be happy and be down taking pictures.”

One source revealed that pro-white

and nationalist groups from European countries may be coming to Swansea to march as well. Some of the groups possibly involved include Combat 18, a group that was linked to a series of attacks in the 1990s, and the NSM Britannia, whose core beliefs include ‘defending the rights of white people everywhere’ and ‘the promotion of white separation’.

Protestors would have to get permission to march in Swansea, but police say there has been no contact from the White Pride organisers.

A spokesperson from South Wales Police said: “We have information of a possible march on the 9th March, but this is yet to be confirmed.”

The counter demonstration being organised through a Facebook group already has hundreds of people attending.

The group states in its information: “They will be spewing their racial hatred, so let’s show them what we think of their bile and show them they are not wanted in Swansea or anywhere else.”

‘WHITE PRIDE’ MARCH SPARKS COUNTER DEMO by Chris [email protected]

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Hundreds of Swansea students set to protest over far right gathering in city

02 I NEWS thewaterfront 25. 2. 13

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Internet addicts suffering drug-like withdrawal YOUNG people who use the internet for long periods can suffer similar withdrawal symptoms to substance users, it has been found.

Scientists at Swansea and Milan Universities reported the results of the first study into the immediate negative psychological impacts of internet use.

Research found that those who engage in long periods of use reported increased negative moods after they stopped surfing the net. Users then possibly re-engage in net use to eradicate these feelings.

Professor Phil Read, who is based in the University’s College of Human and Health Sciences, said: “Although we do not know exactly what internet addiction is, our results show that around half of the young people we studied spent so much time on the net, that it has negative consequences for the rest of their lives.

“When these people come offline, they suffer increased negative mood – just like people coming off illegal drugs like ecstasy. “

Sixty volunteer participants with an average of 24-26 years were given a series of psychological tests to explore levels of internet addiction, mood,

anxiety, depression, schizotypy and autism traits.

They were then given exposure to the internet for 15 minutes and re-tested for mood and current anxiety.

The results of the study also showed that heavy internet users also tend to be more depressed and show higher levels of autism traits.

“These results corroborate previous

reports regarding the psychological characteristics and traits of internet users, but go beyond those findings to show the immediate effect of the internet on the mood of those who are addicted,” added Professor Read.

•For an in depth look into the effects of Facebook and social networks on students, see pages 14 and 15.

Don’t forget to bring your bike!

THE February Science Café talk at the Dylan Thomas Centre is called The last man standing: How to take years off your life.

Our environments are evolving to encourage sedentary lifestyles, so the talk by Dr Kelly Mackintosh, of Swansea University, will be about how to encourage people to have a physically active life so that they can enjoy the resulting health benefits, which include greater longevity.

Admission is free and the talk, followed by a discussion, starts at 7.30pm on Wednesday, February 27.

Sit back, relax with a drink and listen or get involved in the discussion and debate.

Science cafe talk

thewaterfront

by Sam Booth [email protected]

ADDICTIVE: Heavy internet users more likely to be depressed.

by a Waterfront reporter [email protected]

GOING GREEN: People and Planet society members organised an event Bring Your Bike Day for Go Green Week 2013 outside Fulton House.

UNIVERSITY students who began their studies before the introduction of higher tuition fees are being charged the new rate after failing and having to reapply.

Fifty five students from ten universities across the UK have been forced to pay the £9,000 tuition fees after, in most cases, failing to achieve minimum course requirements and having to apply to different programmes.

Two of the students listed, who study at Swansea University, have had to restart their courses under the new fee regime.

However, at all the institutions, the vast majority of students who failed their first year have been allowed to retake rather than having the reapply under the new regime.

Swansea University said: “Students who do not withdraw from their course but repeat the year remain on the same fee regime and are treated as a continuing student.

“If a student voluntarily withdrew or was withdrawn by the University and then reapplied, the new fee would apply, as they would be treated as a new student on that course.”

“However, if a student had been advised to voluntarily withdraw and then reapplied for the following semester, although they would initially appear to be a new student and the new fee would be charged, we would review this as the exception.”

Swansea University Students’ Union Education Officer said: “Whilst we cannot comment on individual cases, I would like to point out that this is a perfect example of the kinds of issues we warned against during the successive fees debates.”

“I will be consulting with colleagues’ nationally to look at a joined up approach in dealing with situations like this.”

Failed students face higher feesby Gemma Parrywaterfrontnews@swansea-union. co.uk

Would you like to be a journalist?WOULD you like to learn valuable journalistic skills and increase your employability by volunteering for The Waterfront?

We are looking for people to write about news, sport and features.

The next edition of The Waterfront is out on Monday, March 11, so if you

have an idea for a story or feature you would like to write, please write to [email protected].

Gemma Parry, news editor, says: “Working for the Waterfront has been an experience that is both rewarding and challenging. Since joining, my writing style has

improved in leaps and bounds and I have met fantastic people who are driven by the same things that I am. “ Sam Booth, features editor, said:

“I’ve never laughed so much as when I’m in the office. There’s lots of journalism-related banter to get involved with.”

JUST as the long standing problems with poor lighting in Singleton Park looked all set to be solved, another twist in tale plunged the park into darkness once more.

After 20 years of campaigning for better lights, the Students Union finally got the go-ahead from the University and Swansea Council, who started to upgrade all of the lights last week.

Unfortunately, as they were doing this there was a fault in the underground cable that supplies almost all of the lights along the path to Brynmill Lane and the whole circuit to be switched off for safety reasons.

Swansea University Students’ Union responded by holding a flash campaign to raise awareness of the issue by installing temporary glow sticks in the park alongside the path to guide students safely.

Students’ Union president Tom Upton said: “We agree that procedures need to be followed, but as the light upgrades were delayed for months, we want to make sure they are fixed as soon as possible.”

A Swansea University spokesperson said: “We’re aware of students’ concerns over lighting along the footpath between the campus and Brynmill Lane.

“Although the park is owned by Swansea

Council, the lighting was installed and maintained by the university. The university has recently contracted Swansea Council to upgrade these lights following discussions with the Students’ Union.

“Swansea Council began work last week, but discovered a fault, which meant work had to

cease for safety reasons. University contractors are currently investigating the fault to allow the works to continue as quickly as possible.”

Swansea University Students’ Union President, Tom Upton, has released a blog on the Students’ Union website, which can be accessed by students to keep updated about the situation.

waterfrontonline.co.uk NEWS I 03

U-turn on phone insurance claim

PROTECT Your Bubble has reversed its decision on a Swansea student’s insurance claim.

Following a story printed in The Waterfront, the insurance company decided to U-turn on its decision not to pay Kelly Jervis’ claim.

Miss Jervis, a second year student, had been declined eligibility for insurance when her phone was stolen in a nightclub.

Protect Your Bubble had said they would not pay out because the phone contract was in her father’s name and not hers, as it was a present from her parents.

A spokesperson from Protect Your Bubble said: “In this case, the claim was initially declined because the SIM card was registered under her father’s details, while the policy was in Kelly’s name.

“The terms and conditions clearly state that phones should be registered with the owner’s details, but we recognise that parents do buy phones for their children. Our staff were following procedure but, in this instance, we understand the circumstances should have been looked into further.

“We’d like to thank Waterfront for bringing this to our attention, and we can confirm that students living away from home are fully covered - whether their phone contracts are registered in their own name, or a parent’s. “

by Chris [email protected]

Park plunged into darkness just as work on lights set to begin

by Gemma [email protected]

Research trip was once in a lifetime opportunity

Back in March last year, William Kay (then a 2nd year Marine Biology student) found he’d been selected for a work placement in Patagonia with a university research team, via Swansea’s Employability Academy. William’s now back and embarking on his 3rd year, but he’s shared some of his amazing photos of the trip. He said: “No ordinary research trip! It was truly magical - inconceivably grateful.”

STILL IN THE DARK: Students stage a flash campaign to protest over lack of lights.

DealsFebruary


20 students reported over exams

A TOTAL 20 students were referred to the Examinations Office for unfair practice during the recent exams period.

One student was expelled from the university after they were found to have been reported before.

Four students had their marks cancelled for the year, which will mean them sitting the year again.

The remaining 15 students have not had their hearing yet but are expected to be heard at the end of February.

Meanwhile, rescheduling exam dates due to the snow in mid-January cost the University £2,272.

The cost of hiring the venues as well as invigilator expenses were revealed in a Freedom of Information Request to Swansea University.

Unfair practice includes taking unauthorised materials into the exam room, copying or talking to another student in the exam room, using a mobile phone to communicate with another person and plagiarism.

by Jon [email protected]

Students angered by three week delay in delivering exam feedback by Gemma [email protected]

SWANSEA University students were disappointed in the aftermath of exams when some departments didn’t release exam and coursework feedback for several weeks.

This meant that students were not able to access their exam results or coursework feedback until mid-February, two weeks after the deadline.

The Social Policy department was nearly three weeks late in providing students with exam and coursework feedback.

Catrin Lewis, a third year Social Policy student, said: “The two and a half week delay in feedback has meant that at a time when we’re already stressed with a looming dissertation deadline, we are under more pressure.

“Although we understand that sometimes this occurs, it would be great to see the department stick to what they have agreed with the university in terms of feedback turnaround.”

In response, the Social Policy department said: “The Social Policy

team would like to make clear the reasons for the delay on this occasion.

“Unfortunately, a member of staff with marking commitments fell ill, and work had to be redistributed to other staff with existing heavy workloads. Students were informed of the delay, and a generic group feedback was provided in the interim.

“All students received final personalised feedback in time to take comments on board for their next piece of work.”

Additionally, a level 2 module taught through the History department provided students with coursework feedback without a moderation of the module marks by a lecturer from outside of the module.

This meant that students initially received results that were later deemed to have been marked ‘too harshly.’

In response, the History department sent out an email which said the following;

“As at all universities, moderation of module marks by a lecturer from outside the module is an important part of our quality controls.

“In this case, we faced a difficult situation because an illness of the moderator over Christmas meant that

there was no time for this.“We thus decided to hand back

all essays before they had been moderated by a lecturer from outside the module. That moderation has now happened.”

Swansea University Students’ Union education officer said: “At the start of this year, the university made some bold promises to students on assessment and feedback, one of which was a three week turnaround of exam papers.

“This has clearly not happened in all colleges. I will be launching a three stage campaign as part of our ‘Access All Areas’ work.

“Stage one will be explaining to

students what the university has promised us. Stage two will be getting our college reps to access an action plan in their college in instances where feedback has been late or poor.

“Stage three will be to form a Students’ Union charter on assessment feedback where Subject Reps will outline their expectations of the university assessment and feedback policy which future education officers will be able to use.”

If any student has an issue with late or poor exam and coursework feedback, it should be made to their department in the first instance, where the delays and problems can be fully explained to students.

ANGERED: Many students did not receive exam and coursework feedback for several weeks.

THE Swansea University College of Engineering has been praised on a Channel Four science documentary after the creation of an artificial lung.

The Channel Four show, How to Build a Bionic Man, showed how science is increasingly able to replace body parts with man-made alternatives.

The development of the technology came about from a partnership between Professor

Rhodri Williams from Swansea University College of Engineering and Professor Adrian Evans from the Swansea University College of Medicine.

The device resembles a small box with inlet and outlet pipes for blood flow. The device is being developed for use to assist recovery of patients following cardiopulmonary surgery, and will be used to keep patients healthier whilst they await a lung transplant.

In the long term, it is intended to be developed as an alternative to a lung transplant.

Channel 4 celebrates College of Engineering achievements

BREAKTHROUGH : The artificial lung has been featured on the documentary, How to Build a Bionic Man

by Gemma Parry [email protected]


THE countdown has begun to the annual Welsh Varsity battle between Swansea and Cardiff universities at the Wales Millennium Stadium on Wednesday, 24 April.

The centrepiece rugby match, witnessed by over 15,000 spectators last year and considered the biggest student event in Wales will kick off at 7.30pm after a week long battle of competitive sports in 25 different fields including hockey, cricket, squash, rowing and lacrosse.

Talented

Swansea University have regularly enjoyed the ability to select from a vast pool of very talented players including the likes of Alun Wynn Jones, Ritchie Pugh and Dwayne Peel. 2007 saw Swansea field no less than 11 FIRA Internationals at varying ages resulting in a win at Cardiff Arms Park.

Welsh Varsity has grown year on year since it began in 1997 and matches were held alternatively at Cardiff Arms Park and Swansea’s St Helens. The match has been played on neutral ground since 2003, at Bridgend’s Brewery Field, Swansea’s Liberty

Stadium and the Millennium Stadium.Former Wales international and

Swansea University 1st XV member Paul Thorburn will be keeping a keen

eye on 2013’s student stars as he takes up a new role as Welsh Varsity Chairman this month.

He said: “There has always been

strong rivalry between these two great rugby institutions however nowadays the fixture has the added spice of attracting close to 20,000 spectators.

The occasion is a must for all rugby lovers, not only because of the carnival atmosphere, but also because of the style and manner in which the game is played.

“With the teams less reliant on inflexible patterns often associated with the professional level, the crowd will be entertained with a far more instinctive approach, which is refreshing.”

Rivals

Imogen Stanley, Swansea University Students’ Union Sports Officer added: ‘It is the culmination of all the hard work, hours spent running in the rain and cold to finally take on our biggest rivals in the capital city.

“Varsity is about using our fantastic community feel on campus to get behind our teams and athletes. Without such passionate support led by students, Varsity wouldn’t be the event that it is. On behalf of the Students’ Union and Sport Swansea team I wish everyone the best of luck and can’t wait for the big day.’’

With just over two months to go until the big day, organisers are expecting tickets to be snapped up quickly. Tickets are on sale now priced at £15 and £12.50 for students. •See www.welshvarsity.com

Countdown has begun to Varsity 2013by a Waterfront [email protected]

Bronze medallist steps downby Gemma [email protected]

HANGING UP HIS GOGGLES: Paralympic medallist Matt Whorwood.

AFTER a decade of training, Paralympic bronze medallist Matt Whorwood has finally decided to hang up his goggles to focus on his degree and follow a career in engineering.

The Mechanical Engineering student spent hours making the most of the sporting facilities available at the university, especially The Wales National Pool which provided him with a great training base.

All that effort proved worthwhile as Matt took bronze in the 400m Freestyle Race with a personal best time of 5:11.59 at the 2012 London Paralympic Games.

Matt said: ‘‘I would like to thank the university for the support I’ve received over the past few years. The financial support has been fantastic and the facilities second to none. I owe a great deal of my success in the 2012 London Paralympic Games to the University and for that, I am truly thankful.’’

STUDENTS in search of a room or housemates are to be assisted by the new students’ union Housemate Service.

The service allows Swansea students to advertise themselves or a room on a dedicated space on campus.

This board is placed opposite the Advice and Support Centre on the ground floor of Fulton House.

Welfare Officer, Charlotte Britton said: “For whatever reason, you might not have filled a

house, or you might be looking to live with different people this year.

“It’s really important to live with people you’re sure you’ll get on with, other it can be a stressful time.

“We’ve introduced this service so you can advertise yourselves or a room somewhere you know it won’t get ripped down.”

To advertise, hand your completed A5 advert to the Advice and Support Centre in Fulton House, behind MyCostcutter next to the stairs.

For an advert guide and to access the Facebook advertisement group, visit www.swansea-union.co.uk/news/article/susu/SU-Housemate-Service-up-and-running/.

Try the new housemates service by Sam [email protected]

ALL SET: Pictured at the launch of Varsity 2013 at the Millennium Stadium are (L-R) Swansea University Cheerleaders, Paul Thorburn (Welsh Varsity Chair), Jonathan Vaughan (Swansea University Captain), Ross Wardale (Cardiff University Captain), Joe Lydon (WRU Head of Rugby Performance and Development), Cardiff University Cheerleaders.

08 I NEWS thewaterfront 25.2.13

Warning goes out after students report nightclub phone theftsSTUDENTS are being warned to keep possessions safe on nights out.

Reports of a theft in the Odyssey nightclub sparked warnings to students to be aware of their valuables when in nightclubs to avoid pickpockets and thieves.

Kirstin Rogers, a 19-year-old Sports Science student, noticed her mobile phone was missing after an incident at the nightclub on at a sports social earlier this month.

“My friend and I were dancing and three men our sort of age approached us on the dance floor. They were pushing us and kept grabbing my friend back to them.

“They eventually disappeared and this was the point we noticed that our phones were missing from our handbags.

“We checked the floor and asked the bar staff to see if anything had been handed in but we couldn’t find anything. We rang the nightclub the next day and they said nothing had

been handed in but that they had had lots of problems that night but there was not a lot they could do.”

Odyssey were unable to give a comment before we went to press about the incident.

The nightclub has seen several cases of phone theft being reported in the past. Alex McKenzie, a 20-year-old English and American studies student has also lost his phone on a student night in the building:

“I can’t remember entirely where I last had it in the club, but the next day I called Odyssey and they just said nothing had been handed in.

“I had to report it to the police stolen the next day when I saw on an online account that somebody was currently listening to music on it. They gave me a report number for insurance purposes.”

Reports of mobile phone and other valuable thefts are not only restricted to Odyssey. Pickpockets target other venues in Swansea such as Sin City and Wetherspoons, among others.

Charlotte Britton, the students’ union welfare officer advises students to think ahead before you leave

the house: “It might seem tired and clichéd to say keep an eye on your stuff, but I think a lot of us have been guilty of not being aware enough of

our belongings. So take a bag with a strap, or have pockets you can fasten and consider having a rubbish cheap phone you can take on nights out.”

by Sam Booth [email protected]

STOLEN PHONE: Kirstin Rogers (right).

A NEW Materials Academy has been set up to provide students and employees with specialised courses dictated by industry needs to address the skills shortage in the workforce in materials science and engineering

The Materials Research Centre in Swansea University was prompted to create the Materials Academy as there are a significant number of industries in Wales that manufacture and process materials, or rely on materials science in their operations, but a shortage of people in the workforce with the relevant materials science skills.

The Materials Academy aims to up skill the workforce which will ultimately help secure sustainability and prosperity for Welsh industry.

The academy has created a range of full and part time courses, which can lead to a range of qualifications at various levels. People can take part in work-based learning to plug a skills gap or choose to study for a degree, Masters degree on a full or part time basis and can choose to study for the doctoral qualification, EngD.

Materials Academy is set upby Gemma [email protected]

www.waterfrontonline.co.uk NEWS I 09

University attracts 18 research stars from all over the world

by a Waterfront reporter [email protected]

A week-long showcase of research excellence at Swansea University gets underway on Monday, February 25.

The Festival of Research, which is coordinated by the university’s Bridging the Gaps programme (BTG), runs until Friday, March 1, and features a broad and stimulating programme of public lectures, seminars, exhibitions, and events, which promote the very best of Swansea University’s globally significant research advances.

The festival’s public events are free of charge and all are welcome – undergraduate and postgraduate students, University support and academic staff, visitors, guests, and interested members of the public.

Professor Andrew Blake, Microsoft Distinguished Scientist and Laboratory Director, Microsoft Research Cambridge, opened the festival with a keynote public lecture, Building a Machine that Sees, today.

Chris Marshall, a doctoral research student in the College of Arts and Humanities, will give a lunchtime lecture on Thursday, February 26, entitled The Promised Land? Barack Obama and Martin Luther King’s “Dream”.•For the full progrmme of events see www.swan.ac.uk/festival-of-research

Uni’s research excellence is showcased

by Gemma [email protected]

EIGHTEEN researchers with global reputations are being appointed as Distinguished Research Professors at Swansea University.

The appointments are spread across all six academic colleges and will further strengthen the university’s reputation for research excellence as it seeks to fulfil its ambition of becoming one of the world’s top 200 universities by 2020. These new arrangements build on the success of a number of joint appointments with overseas universities in the areas of Mathematics, Law and Entrepreneurship.

The 18 academics in question have been recruited from across the globe, including the USA, Far East and Europe. They are based at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world. They will spend a proportion of their time working with colleagues in Swansea to build and to strengthen global research collaborations and to enhance the vitality and sustainability of our research environment.

The academics coming to share their expertise with Swansea include the distinguished English scholar Maud

Ellman, currently a Professor at the University of Chicago, psychologist Perrine Ruby, a researcher at the Lyon Neuroscience Research Centre in France and lawyer Joel Trachtman, from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in the US. There are also appointments to the College of Engineering, including Andrew Barron, currently Chair of Chemistry at Rice University, Texas, three appointments in the College of Medicine and three in Science.

Professor Noel Thompson, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, said: “These academics are real international stars and we are delighted that they want to come to Swansea University and work with our research communities. These appointments demonstrate our commitment to research excellence and our global ambition.”

Professor Andrew Barron, Chair of Chemistry and Professor of Materials Science at Rice Universityin Texas, said: “I am excited to be associated with the College of Engineering at Swansea University especially in this time of expansion and change. The new Engineering and Innovation campus and the creation of the Energy Safety Research Institute are in my

opinion the biggest moves forward for any university in the UK, if not the world. “

Professor Perrine Ruby is a researcher at the Lyon Neuroscience Research Center in France. She said: “I research two areas, what happens in the brain when we engage with others socially, and what happens in the brain when we dream or recall dreams. I am thus excited about being able to work with the team at the Swansea University Sleep Laboratory so as to work on the relationship between sleep, dreaming and natural waking life autobiographical experiences, with the aim of discovering what functions dreaming may have. “

Professor Joel P Trachtman is an expert in international law from TuftsUniversity in Massachusetts. He said: “I look forward to the opportunity to work with the excellent students and scholars of Swansea Law School. My research on international trade law will fit well with the Law School’s Institute of International Shipping and Trade Law, and I look forward very much to working with the innovative and engaged scholars of Swansea .”

RESEARCHERS: Top, Prof Joel P Trachtman, middle, Prof Andrew Barron, bottom, Prof

Maud Ellman.

PENTREHAFOD school pupils saw for themselves today how they will make a difference to the life of an orphan in Africa over the next two years.

During the launch of ‘Swansea Siavonga Partnership Scholarship Scheme’ by the Discovery charity at Swansea University, representatives from the Zambian community explained how the school’s cheque of £480 will change the lives of two Zambian students.

Their donation will go towards school fees, uniforms, books and events for both students

from Matuwa School, who are part of the Swansea Siavonga Schools Linking Programme. They will also be given access to a digital camera to encourage both parties to share stories and communicate on a regular basis.

As many Siavonga women live without access to education or many basic resources, helping young girls to achieve good results through the programme will be the main priority.

It is hoped that future partnerships will develop as a result of the scholarship programme but in the meantime, a new group of students will travel to Africa in July to volunteer and experience life in Siavonga as part of the Discovery Zambia Project. •Visit www.swansea.ac.uk/discovery

Charity helps link pupils in Swansea and Zambia

by a Waterfront reporterwaterfrontnews @swansea-union.co.uk

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Pupils raise money for Zambian project.

www.waterfrontonline.co.uk NEWS I 11

UK Border Agency issues statistics for enrolment of international students

by Rahul [email protected]

SWANSEA University grounds care team have won the Best Maintained Artificial Pitch of the Year award for a second time.

The team were presented with the award, which they had previously won in 2009, in the profession’s annual industry awards.

Swansea University’s outdoor facilities consist of a 8 lane running track with a grass infield, 6 tennis courts, two water

based astro turf pitches, and a soccer and rugby pitch.

The athletics track and indoor training centre is used by international teams, elite athletes, local clubs, national governing bodies and the university. It was also used as a training base by Paralympians before the London Paralympics.

The Swansea team received their award in a ceremony at York Racecourse, which was attended by more than 350 of the leading grounds care experts

from around the UK and Europe. John Courteney, Head Grounds

man, said: “The facilities at Swansea provide first-class playing surfaces for the students, staff, varying high-profile and community groups. The award is in recognition of high quality maintenance of sport ground facilities.

“My congratulations go to my assistants, Ross Davies and Leighton Williams and colleague, Andrew Griffiths and his team, Andrew Phillips, Brian Culliford and Chris Nelson.”

Swansea grounds care team wins awardby Gemma [email protected]

AT least 25 international students accepted to study at Swansea University failed to enrol on their courses starting in September 2012.

A Freedom of Information request by The Waterfront has revealed that 19 of those students did not enrol because they were refused a visa by the UK Border Agency.

In the period between the 5th July and 30th September 2012, 1069 students were granted a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) to study in Swansea in this way, however only 872 were used.

Of the 872 used, 25 students failed to enrol at the university between July and September.

International students are required to pay much higher fees than home students, for example an undergraduate engineering degree costs £13,500 per year for a student outside the European Union, with the university requiring at least 50% of the fees to be paid before or at enrolment.

The Swansea University website states that students “must pay a £2000 deposit before [the university] can issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies”, as well as provide evidence that they have enough money to pay the first year of tuition fees and living expenses.

Many students are sponsored by companies or the government in their home countries to study in the UK and then go back and work in their own countries after graduation.

Students that fail to enrol at their university are reported to the UK Border Agency, it is then down to the UKBA to take any necessary action.

However it is sometimes the case that people obtain the CAS and student visa, then simply find a job and earn money rather than enrol at their universities.

All 25 students that failed to enrol were reported to the UKBA by Swansea University.

Of these 25 applicants, 19 failed to enrol because they were refused a visa by the UKBA, 3 experienced delays in getting their visas and could not enrol by 30th September, 3 applicants decided not to enrol at Swansea for their own reasons.

25 February 2013waterfrontonline.co.uk 13

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 ss p r i n g i s s p r u n g

front!

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I love you! Facebook: Friend or foe?>> 14

Fashion: Power dressing for guys & girls>> 16

Music: Bullet For My Valentine>> 26

Film: Why the Oscars got it wrong>> 27

Blind date: when Lauren met Josh >> 31

Photo: Amanda Slater

features

14a d d i c t e d to a d d i n g

SO you’re sitting there, about to start revision and BAM: the little (1) pops up on Facebook. Before you know it, you’re browsing through the photos of

your sisters, brothers, friends, cousin, and doing what is commonly known as Facebook stalking, and chatting to numerous friends online.

Facebook is known for its addictiveness. The need to be constantly up-to-date with friends’ posts, photos and likes is increasing and young people are actively aware of this.

An increasing number of studies are showing that Facebook can have effects on mental health and a Facebook addiction is becoming psychologically recognised.

One study from Society for Personality and Social Psychology recommended the perfect number of Facebook friends is 354. After this, users were found to become increasingly envious or depressed at the large amount of friend activity their news feed was showing.

Another study by Brigham Young University suggested that those updating their Facebook status more than twice a day were more likely to be narcissists who seek out admiration and success.

Studies at Swansea and Milan Universities found that young people who use the internet for an excessively-long period can suffer similar withdrawal symptoms to substance mis-users.

HookedThe study, Different Psychological Impacts of Internet

Exposure on Internet Addicts, suggested that young people have increased negative moods after they stopped surfing the net.

Has Mark Zuckerberg created a site more addictive than harmful substances?

Similar studies have found that Facebook and Twitter are more addictive than tobacco and alcohol.

One report found that the brain scans of heavy social media users had similar brain changes that occur with alcoholics and drug users. Social media has since been labelled the ‘new’ cocaine.

UsefulBut don’t worry: there are many good effects of

Facebook as well. If used responsibly, your profile can increase your chances of getting hired. An employer browsing your Facebook profile for just 5-to-10 minutes can boost your likelihood of employment as they are more likely to trust what they see than the results of a personality survey that many companies require prospective workers to complete.

The research, conducted by Northern Illinois University’s College of Business, found the five key traits employers look for online are: conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, emotional stability and openness.

Facebook is also replacing cupid with its optional display of a relationship status. Research has shown that nearly 60 per cent of singles will add someone on Facebook after meeting them in person.

The Lab42 survey found that if they like their Facebook profile, 25 per cent are likely to contact their new love interest via the site.

Another effect of social networking is that it claims to improve users’ heart rates. Spending time on Facebook can help people relax and decrease stress levels, according to research from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Milan.

Contradicting previous studies, this found that Facebook’s success correlates to the specific positive mental and physical states users experience. •What are you views on the effects of Facebook on students? Email [email protected].

Photo: Shawn Campbell

The perfect number of Facebook friends

is 354

Photo: OwenWBrown

Social networks have become an essential part of students’ day to day life. They are the perfect communication tool, and can lead to job offers, but there is a darker side to living online as Samantha Booth reports.

Is Facebook your friend or your foe?

Photo: Wernerslave

Photo: AJC1


The beauty of internet

socialisingBy Jacques Tsiantar

Facebook: our portal to a vast and intensely accessible social universe. Like going outside, but without the cold and having to deal with all that

complicated “interacting” and “talking” nonsense. Can this really be a good substitute for general social interaction?

Don’t get me wrong, we’re all dependent on Facebook’s ability to organise people and publicise, and it’s a better way to store photos than some dusty old albums (though nobody actually wants to see that picture of you lying naked in your own vomit) but when it comes to actually socialising I find it to be rather lacklustre and mildly annoying.

If I want to talk to someone I’ll text them. If I want to know about what they’re eating, who they’re eating it with, then I’ll just open my news feed. Studies into why people feel the need to decorate the internet with just about anything they can procure out of their lives have shown that a lot of it has to do with self-esteem issues.

Studies in Sweden show a significant relationship between Facebook usage and how content one might feel with one’s own life. Constantly seeing others’ endeavours pasted on the news feed will probably create the need to join in.

I think I’m safe in saying that the only person who really wants to know about all this is the poster. Like a trophy cabinet, Facebook is littered with indicators of how social we are, taking pictures of just about anything on a night out and how opinionated we can be with our posts subtly directed towards other people, and I quote, “ughh hate her”. Yeah, that’s a real status, followed with the whole “long story bbz, don’t even ask”. Inspiring.

These attempts to showcase our personality to the nth degree tie in with the desire of self actualisation so it’s easy to see why we do it, but I also feel like Facebook is turning us into the most narcissistic generation yet.

We create this dynamic and formidable internet self, but in the real world nobody wants to know. So do us all a favour and think before you paste all this self-absorbed rubbish in every nook and cranny you can find, apart from the ears of the person towards which it is intended. (U kno who u are)

TOM Lake, a 23-year-old PhD Engineering student says: “I could cope without Facebook if it wasn’t for societies and SU content. “The societies I’m part of are pretty good about keeping members up to date by email, but it’s often used for discussions and planning for events.”However, 19-year-old Economics student, Hetty Hyde-Durrant thinks that a life without Facebook would be counter-productive as it’s an easy form of contact:“It’s a very good way of easily keeping in contact with friends from home, arranging when to meet up and find out when every one is going back home. “I wouldn’t want to go without that!”So, it would be no overstatement to say that students cannot live without social networks, whether it be on their phone, at home or at university.Earlier this year, the students’ union forum raised the debate of whether Facebook should be banned in the library. The initial reaction saw many students raising the issue of not being able to communicate with fellow course students. Many courses have student-led Facebook groups which allow students to ask questions about the course, as Leanne Desmond, a second year English literature student says:“It’s an easy way of connecting with other students and the groups are somewhere where you can ask questions or share and gain knowledge.”However, the rise of anonymously created public pages such as Swansea Uni Confessions and Spotted: Swansea University Library has caused a stir among students in line with this debate. Both pages were seen to post potentially embarrassing and uncomfortable posts about Swansea University students, which saw the university condemning the confessions page.Facebook can be a weapon of anger and procrastination but students still seem divided on the true nature of a student life without it, even with the thought of never seeing a Harlem Shake video again!

Olivia Rosenthall19-year-old English Literature student

“I’d feel relieved but out of the loop of what was going on. “I really don’t like the fact that Facebook is the main source for communication, especially in terms of contact because I feel like I’m on it all the time.”

Harri Rogers20-year-old History student

“If I couldn’t access Facebook for a week I’d feel pretty much out of the loop with everything seeing as I find out almost everything that’s going on from there. Pretty frightening really.”

Alex McKenzie20-year-old English and American student

“To be honest I don’t think I’d be able to cope. With social networking on my phone I’m so integrated it’s horrific really, I’m never really unplugged from it.”

Rhian Angharad Morgan18-year-old Media Studies student

“If my social network access had been revoked, I would be all right with it as I feel that I spend too much time on it, however I would miss Twitter the most.”

What would you do if your social media access was revoked for a week?

“Without Facebook, I’d probably feel like my arm had been cut

off...”

‘We’d be out of the loop without it’

Photo: Tacoekkel

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E L E C T I O N S P E C I A L W I T H C AT H A R R I S A N D F R A N L L O Y Dfashion

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Election Special:Power Dressing Inspiration

ELECTION fever has hit Swansea University! Expect to see campaigners out and about and across campus looking for your votes. Aside from the manifestos and campaigns, we all know that a candidate’s look is vital in elections - just look at Obama’s campaigns and his impeccably dressed family. Here at Waterfront Fashion, we have put together some key Power Dressing looks to get you inspired during the campaigning season. Hopefully we can give final years some hints and tips for any job interviews they may

have. Here are some of our favourite picks:

Pictured here is Caroline Flack at the PPQ show at London Fashion Week wearing a simple yet powerful tailored black blazer. Amy Molyneaux and Percy Parker’s new collection brought body-hugging dresses with hem lengths either micro-mini or to the ankle and teaming blacks with a bold colour palette of oranges, yellows and pinks. Molyneaux said the collection aimed ‘for bold shoulders and statement chiffons, adding a new aura to powerful dressing’.

Waterfront Fashion have definitely fallen for the Beyonce hype following her breathtaking performance at the Super Bowl. Aside from being an amazing artist and a role model for independent women, Beyonce is also a great businesswoman and knows how to dress the part too. Vogue’s March edition will feature a Beyonce special, with the edition all about ‘Power 2013’. Also pictured is Queen B rocking a fabulous silver blazer during her show in Atlanta during her 2005 tour. Need inspiration from a powerful woman? Beyonce definitely rules the world right now!

Often pictured in Michael Kors, J. Crew, and Jason Wu, Michelle Obama knows exactly how to dress like a smart, sophisticated First Lady. Here she is, looking amazing in a simple navy dress, a look which is accessible to all women in search of a professional look, without opting for the easy black trousers and white shirt.

On the high streetASOS Tailored Waistcoat £35 with ASOS Shirt with embellished collar and cutout back £20

Boohoo.com Maddie Midi-length skirt £8. Comes in a range of colours but this emerald tone was recommended by Pantone as the colour of spring 2013.

Topshop Tile Geo Jacquard Trousers £42


Get Involved! We are constantly on the lookout for anyone interested in joining our team of writers at Waterfront Fashion to bring the latest style to the students of Swansea. If you are an enthusiastic writer/fashionista, get in touch with Cat and Fran at [email protected] We are looking for features on student fashion, events, latest trends, shopping, hair and beauty, men’s fashions, and any other ideas you could bring to the newspaper! Get involved with Swansea University whilst boosting your CV, and doing what Swansea students do best; getting drunk at fashion writers’ socials! We can’t wait hear from you all!

As long as I got my suit and tie...JUSTIN Timberlake’s new single ‘Suit and Tie’ sums up the best look for a powerful man who means business. For the boys, we’ve got some great style inspiration from some of the best dressed guys about. It’s all about looking classy and polished so whether it’s during campaigning or that job interview you’ve been preparing for weeks for, we’ve got some great looks just for you, and, let’s face it, all the girls who just love a man in a suit!

Justin Timberlake at the 2013 SAG Awards in a a brown and fawn wool Tom Ford silk linen hopsack Damier O’Connor suit, pastel brown gingham shirt and jacquard tie.

President Barack Obama at his second inaugural speech wearing what he wears best: a classic power suit.

Bruno Mars at the Grammys in a charcoal grey 3-piece suit, a classic white shirt and skinny black tie. His hairdo and shades echo his rockabilly 1950s look.

Still got American Football fever following the Super Bowl? Take note from this NFL star, Victor Cruz who plays for the New York Giants. These white shoes look grey with this medium grey, two-button suit.

One trend which both New York and London Fashion Weeks have taught us is that the “Jazz Age” is back, so take note of 1920s inspired suits, such as this elegant and romantic style seen on the John Varvatos catwalk.

Time for a Fashion Fast?SO Pancake Day has now been and gone which means we’re now in the six weeks of Lent. Some of you may be giving up chocolate and crisps and some of you have maybe decided to actually go to every lecture until Easter, but probably, like me, you haven’t really thought of doing anything for Lent.

Well maybe this year, whether you’re religious or not, you could take this six weeks to sort out the mass of unwanted clothes taking up room in your wardrobe in place of things you’ll actually wear.

Research from WRAP in July 2012 showed that “The average UK household owns around £4,000 worth of clothes – but around 30% of clothes in the average wardrobe have not been worn for at least a year, most commonly because they no longer fit.”

I definitely know that I am guilty of this fashion hoarding, constantly telling myself that dress I bought in 2010 will come back into fashion. But spring is coming and so it’s time to change.

Get yourself on eBay or down to the local charity shop! Something that no longer fits you might look amazing on someone else and something that you think has gone out of fashion may be re-worked by someone else into something which is totally on trend for SS13.

This is definitely the time for a clear out and don’t forget, you could make a few extra pennies by selling those jeans which don’t fit right anymore, extra pennies which could go towards that dress you’ve been eyeing up for weeks! Plus, let’s face it, getting rid ofclothes and going shopping for a new wardrobe is definitely a lot easier than no chocolate for a month and a half!

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25 February 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk 23

w H at ’s o n w i t H o L i v i a r o s e n t H a L L

Attention Thieves, Plus The Effect, Stars & FlightsSin City, Saturday 9 MarchTickets: £5

Hailing from the other end of the M4, Reading band Attention Thieves are bringing their brand of anthemic post-hardcore to Sin City. Cut from similar moulds to bands such as We Are the Ocean and Young Guns, Attention Thieves graced the BBC Introducing Stage at Reading and Leeds last year after their ‘Look a Little Closer’ EP prompted Kerrang magazine to announce them ‘at the forefront of a new wave of exciting British bands’. Visiting Swansea towards the end of their extensive UK tour, they come with support from pop-punk quintet Neck Deep, while local bands The Effect and Star & Flights warm up the crowd. Make sure to drop by Sin City on March 9 to witness some upcoming British rock talent.

Alex McKenzie

OAK Sessions LiveSin City, Wednesday 27 February

If you’re an avid Facebook user and have been keeping up with OAK Sessions’ stunningly shot videos of Swansea’s finest musicians the last couple of months, you’ll be pleased to know that a select few are coming together to give you an incredible night of live music at everyone’s favourite venue, Sin City. Since last November OAK Sessions have sought out a handful of incredible artists and filmed their acoustic sets in unlikely places ranging from an empty bar to a comfy staircase. Now for one night only you are invited to view some of their favourite and most talented musicians. From the soft sounds of Dominic Griffin (which will have Ben Howard and Benjamin Francis Leftwich fans swooning), to the raw voice of one of OAK’s original artists, Ophelia Xerri, you are in for a wide variety of truly lovely music. Other musicians featured are Paddy Kelly, (already the well-known and loved host of JC’s Open Mic Night ) and acoustic sweetheart Beth Angharad, who has yet to feature in one of OAK’s videos, but is a definite contender for the coming months. Tickets are £3 and can be purchased by sending the money to OAK’s producer, Francis Darracott at [email protected], add your name to the message box and you will be added to the list on the door. Until then, feast your eyes upon some incredible videos and music at either www.facebook.com/OakSessions or www.youtube.com/Oaksessions

Olivia Rosenthall

Craig Charles + Disco PantherThe Garage, Friday 1 MarchTickets: £10

A man known broadly for his acting talents in programmes such as Red Dwarf, Coronation Street and Robot Wars, Craig Charles has also been presenting a funk and soul show on 6 Music for over ten years and is bringing his expertise to Funk Junkkies at The Garage for one night only. Playing the very best of funk and soul and ranging from black roots music to brand new releases it cannot be disputed that this Scouse knows his onions. So expect anything from James Brown to Prince to maybe even a smattering of Stevie Wonder. With support from the unmissable Disco Panther who will be providing their own live original material, along with their garish shirts, it promises to be a smooth, sexy night. Tickets are available from Derricks Music for the bargain price of £10 for what will undoubtedly be something a little more suave than Tooters.

Charlotte Bunker

An interview with Local NativesOur features editor Samantha Booth speaks to Local Natives guitarist, Ryan Hahn about Italian beaches, Llandow harriers and the recently released second album, Hummingbird.

What has been the general reaction to Hummingbird so far?So far, it’s been a great reaction. It’s always like that with a new album, you’ve got to give people time to get to know the songs but we’ve been really, really happy with the way people are responding. In my mind, this new album is different and a step in a direction that we wanted to go, so it’s cool for fans to come along with you on that ride.

What is your favourite song on the album and did you write any of them yourself?I wrote a good number of songs on the album. I have a soft spot for “You and I”, just because it’s a song that took us a long time to write and when we finally cracked the code on it, there was so much energy and we got so excited by it that we wrote a bunch of songs after that because we were in such good spirits.

What is your favourite touring memory?We’ve had some really good times. We did a show in New York once that was on Governors Island, which is an island just off of Manhattan, and the only way to get there is the ferry. This show was like 2,000 people so it was a really big show for us at the time. It sold out and I remember thinking that these people have travelled across the water to come and see us, it was such an amazing night.

What was your favourite video to film?I think “Breakers”, definitely. It was kind of stressful as we did it in like two days and we were making it up as we go along. It was fun to say “Today, I’m going to push you down the stairs” and “Matt, we’re going to put you in a space suit” and then we were filming in slow motion. It was just so much fun.

Local Native’s album “Hummingbird” is out now

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OAK Sessions live at Sin City, Wednesday 27 February

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WHERE black-cloaked assassins stab Norse warriors as an Amazon beats down a Minotaur. That is Blood Bowl.

A game that has seen many incarnations, starting from the original table top game in 1987 where rolling dice and moving your little miniatures around a board has now changed to be computerised.

Released in 2009 by Cyanide, this fantasy American Football game bears only a small resemblance to the real-world game. There is a ball, and there are touch downs but in between there are injuries, blocks and death. Your team of Humans, Goblins or Ogres lines up opposite an opposing team with the goal to score more touchdowns than them.

You take turns moving and blocking, the animations are great, the hits feel weighty and the tense nature is found throughout whether it is the insane amount of dodges that your ball carrier is about to make to score, or that block that could change the whole course of the match.

The game doesn’t hide the dice rolls you have to make, showing them proud and clear and it works really well.

The offline elements of the game have a career mode alongside the stereotypical exhibition and tournament modes. Within career you can build your team up from scratch, your players gaining new skills as they get experience and adding more players and extras to your team as you earn money from your matches as you head upwards to eventually win the Blood Bowl.

The atmosphere is great, from your team specific cheerleaders to the blood-stained injury bin, it all

works and feels good. Even now many online leagues and players can be found and some have been running for years. With such a variety of teams and play styles there is something for any fan of gaming to enjoy.

Another thing that makes Blood Bowl stand out is that, though starting to show its age a little, the core

gameplay is still there and through updates has been constantly changed to try and keep it true to the original game. With two pay for expansions adding to the game’s roster of teams and the stadiums you can play on, Blood Bowl is a game definitely worth checking out. 9/10

25 February 2013 waterfrontonline.co.uk 25

Blood Bowl is still scoring top marksstudent gaminggam

es

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

Omerta reviewPROHIBITION is a much loved topic for game and film. Italian gangsters, corrupt cops and more gunfights than you could shake a stick at. The most recent game addition is Omerta and if you were hoping for a great gangster experience then it falls slightly short of the mark.

From the makers of Tropico, we get a real-time strategy game where you have to build up your empire through various activities such as money laundering or fire bombing. This large city, though looking quite nice at first, has lost some of the ambience that Tropico possessed, the people are just background noise rather than living a routine, your own gangsters just sprint around to their next job. The game itself struggles to escape the idea that you are building up just for the sake of having more stuff.

There are several types of resources in the game, dirty and clean money, with dirty being easier to get but not usable on bigger buildings. There is also beer, liquor and firearms, these are then either sold for money or traded in to be allowed to do a mission, five firearms for

a drive-by for instance. The gangsters that you can control are all pre-created apart from the first, and all have overly stereotypical backgrounds and accents and in the city part of the game are merely faces and voices for very boring gameplay at times.

The game shines however in the combat, when your gangsters get into a shoot-out either via a mission, bank heist or are ambushed doing a job, the game switches to a turn-based combat mode. As in X-Com, you take turns moving and shooting with your guys and it is in this that the game has some saving grace. The splitting of movement and firing allows more dynamic combat and cover reacts nicely to bullets.

The downside here is that there is a very limited number of weapons. They are just a pistol, revolver, shotgun, Tommy gun and rifle. No variations of those beyond background stats, this simplifies the combat and limits it. Though this is mostly negative thoughts, the game does have some nice moments during the campaign, fighting outside the church to help a mob boss for example, yet all in all you won’t go back to replay it. 6/10.

You won’t go back for more

New releasesTOMB RAIDER – A new and reimagined Lara is going to grace our screens soon, hoping to get away from what had become a very tired-feeling game. This new Tomb Raider game seems to be building on the success of Uncharted, look out for this one.

CRYSIS 3 – The latest instalment of the Crysis series, the semi future shooter where you are as at home fighting humans as you are aliens. Its predecessors gained critical acclaim, so check out this game.

•Ever wanted to be a writer? Enjoy playing games? Then why not write for the Waterfront Games section? Good fun and a great experience, come along and join a hard-working team providing game reviews and news for Swansea University to read. If you are interested, send an email to [email protected].

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26g o i n g f o r t H e r e c o r d - w i t H a L e x g i b b s

WATERFRONT: Your latest album ‘Temper Temper’ is out now. What can your fans expect from this album?

Padge: ‘Temper Temper’ is a definite progression of fever from our last album. It’s more direct, the song writing is more focused and it’s a lot more lean and stripped away. It’s a belter from start to finish!

WF: The new single ‘Riot’ is also available. It sounds really incredible, albeit it differs from previous singles; was the change intended or was it more of a natural progression?

Padge: We definitely wanted to try something a bit different. ‘Riot’ is a great example of this because we really tried simplifying numerous things whilst trying not to be too technical. It’s not too much of a mouthful to anyone’s ears, but it’s still hard rock with an edge!

WF: How many times have you guys actually played at Download Festival now? Over the years who have you been most excited to share the stage with?

Padge: We’ve played about four or five times. AC/DC and Iron Maiden have both played there alongside a lot of other bands we like and we were fortunate to be on those fantastic line ups. It’s always good to play as you get to see loads of bands you love, make friends

and have a good time. Personally, it’s the best part of summer.

WF: You guys are so tight when playing together and your songs sound so technically proficient; is that what attracted you to the Metal genre?

Padge: I think for many musicians especially young ones, it is the freedom on any instrument you’re playing. It becomes your best friend and doesn’t answer back! Plus, when you’re a kid you want to get into a band to be cool and play in front of loads of fans and sing songs. You eventually get into just music and song-writing. It’s fun and it’s a total lifestyle.

WF: What’s your opinion on the state of Welsh music at the moment? What’s your opinion of other Welsh bands?

Padge: I think the Welsh music scene is still really ripe. Bands like Funeral For A Friend, who’ve been around for a long time, have just released a new album and the reviews and comments online are 100%. Generally, I think the scene is still relevant and it’s great that the way that us and Funeral have managed to stay around is living proof.

By Callum Walters

Bullet For My Valentine still have the edge

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

Twisted Wheel get that summer feeling By Olivia Rosenthall

albums

AN Indie Rock band from Saddleworth in Greater Manchester, Twisted Wheel have made a name for themselves since forming in 2007. From being signed with Columbia Records, to touring in Japan with Jet, to even playing at some of the UK’s biggest festivals, including Reading and Leeds; this band has achieved an overwhelming amount. Ahead of their tour in March, Frontman Jonny Brown gave some of his time to speak to The Waterfront on how the band is progressing.

WF: How is the promotion for your new album “Do It Again” going?

Jonny: It’s going alright. We’ve not had as much promotion for this one, as we had a lot of money put into our last one, yet we’ve

had a very supportive fan-base. The last tour we did we had entire venues where the crowd were singing the songs back to us, plus our fans have bought the album, so it can’t be too bad! I think we need to get back in the limelight and get the press on our side. We’re hoping to have a new album out by the end of 2013.

WF: Since the last album, how do you feel you’ve progressed?

Jonny: In comparison to the last one it’s a lot tamer, this album has more summery songs on it. They sound a bit slower… maybe we’ve gotten slower as we’ve gotten older! But I don’t think we’ve completely changed our sound, it still sounds like us. I think the next album will be more extreme, I mean not too extreme, I wouldn’t want to sell out and wear spandex pants. More radio friendly, I think.

FoalsHoly Fire

THREE years after the release of their last album, Foals return this month with a scorcher album ‘Holy Fire’ writes Tom Sloggett. Sticking to the tried and tested Alt-rock formula that has made their music flourish in previous work, the long-time Foals fans won’t be disappointed! Tracks like ‘Everytime’ and ‘Out Of The Woods’ demonstrate that Foals still have the edge over other British indie bands when it comes to catchy song writing. Yet, be surprised with a more subdued, emotional set of lyrics emerging towards the album’s end, most explicitly on ‘Moon’. Minimal production smoothly mixed with grainy vocals means the Oxford five piece easily preserve their status as one of today’s most unique bands.

CourteenersAnna

THIS month, this Manchester quartet has stormed back into the music scene with their usual indie rocking style writes Jodie O’Donnell. ‘Anna’ is fresh, obsessive and genuine, which is what you’d expect from the Courteener’s splendid indie ability. First single, ‘Lose Control’ provides the best introduction to this sensational album, beginning with laidback lyrics from husky vocalist Liam James Fray, before it accumulates the raucous crash of drums and addictive bassline that the band is renowned for. The finest of the album’s songs falls on track number six entitled ‘Welcome to the Rave’. Crafted for the euphoric atmosphere found on festival stages, ‘WTTR’ will undoubtedly propel this album to success. Creating an album of pure fun, life and subtle emotion, we welcome you back Courteeners with open arms.

Twisted Wheel’s tour kicks off on Sunday, March 3 at The Venue, Derby

Night BedsCountry Sleep

Night Beds’ debut album entitled ‘Country Sleep’ is out now and is set to skyrocket writes Jodie O’Donnell. Vocalist Yellen has a distinct folk tone to his clean vocals and with a guitar leading most of his songs, the country vibes of Night Beds cannot be denied. Whilst ‘Ramona’ portrays a soft, traditional country essence, ‘Even If We Try’ shows the darker, more harmonious side to country. Accompanied by a less rhythmic guitar strumming and a stripped back intense instrumental bass line in ‘Even If We Try’, it epitomises Yellen’s emotion in his carefully composed lyrics. The entire album is an Indie cross of Fleet Foxes, Dry The River and Bon Iver, saturated with a distinct rough and ready folky edge. Night Beds will bring country music back to our charts.

Photo: Musicmafiauk

Photo: Victoria Morse

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s i Lv e r s c r e e n w i t H s au L m a s t e r s

Lincoln Just in time for the Oscars, ‘Lincoln’ introduces us to one of the most controversial periods in American history through the eyes of arguably the most celebrated president in history. Much will be made of Daniel Day-Lewis’ charismatic, powerful performance as Abraham Lincoln. It’s worth mentioning that Tommy Lee Jones’s character is equally as interesting, embodying a radical, passionate force next to the grandeur of Day-Lewis’s Lincoln.Spielberg’s direction is understated,, allowing us to digest every word of this historical drama, whilst being nudged along by John Williams’ equally understated, presidential soundtrack. It is hard to see how a director could have tackled this in any other way, given the magnitude of the themes and the commanding presence that these larger than life characters demand on screen. Perhaps the unintentional genius of ‘Lincoln’ is its relevance. The story of the president fresh from re-election victory trying to force reform through a partisan congress, whilst fighting for unity in a bitterly divisive America, runs uncannily parallel to the current story of the 44th President. There is little action here for fans of popcorn movies, but for political junkies, ‘Lincoln’ is a must see.

Why the Oscars got it wrong, again!

Film ReviewsBy Lewis Carter Django

Unchained ‘Django Unchained’ offers viewers the quintessential Tarantino experience through the blending of intense violence with pastiche and cleverly choreographed dialogue. But ‘Django’ lives in the memory as a tale of two halves. The first characterized by the classic concept of two larger than life characters from different areas of society forced into working together for a common cause, ‘killing white folks and getting paid for it’. Set against the backdrop of American slavery, this section of the film, despite being a little lengthy, works rather well. The revenge-driven second half is characterized by the performances that Tarantino gets from his actors, most notably Leonardo DiCaprio and Samuel L. Jackson, which are not only fascinating but entirely uncharacteristic of them. This is arguably the saving grace in preventing the second act of this film from descending into a series of film references, whiplash-inducing cinematography and bizarre cameos, one of which involves Tarantino himself. ‘Django’ works very well for the most part as a buddy-comedy western, but for those who are not a fan of hyperbolic ‘Kill Bill’ style violence; your attention is likely to tail off towards the end.

By Lewis Carter West of Memphis West of Memphis is a documentary about the supposed satanic murder of three 8 year old boys in Arkansas in 1993. Jessie Misskelley, Jason Baldwin and Damien Echols were all under the age of 18 when found guilty of the horrific crime. The documentary begins by showing how the original case developed by placing together original footage from the trial and the police investigation. This straight away hooks the audience in and more importantly begins laying the seeds of doubt about whether the right people were convicted. The plot then follows the campaign for the freedom of the Memphis three. The campaign surprisingly includes some of the family members of the victims, friends and celebrities, such as the heavily involved Peter Jackson. The story can sometimes feel like it is dragging due to the painfully slow nature of the Arkansas legal system but there are enough shocking revelations to keep the audience forever guessing who the real killer is. West of Memphis is therefore, an engrossing documentary and I would highly recommend it, even if it does leave you with more questions than you started with.

By Matthew O’Keefe

A hh, the Academy Awards have reared their ugly, unwanted head again to intrude on our lives for another year, writes Saul

Masters. The night basically turns into a fashion show for the annoyingly good looking and overly wealthy. The next day the papers aren’t full of who won but instead of what everyone was wearing. Remember last year when Angelina Jolie’s leg was the talk of the town? To me it looked more like Gollum peering out of a cave. No matter how dismal your film is, if you have producer Harvey Weinstein on your side, you are bound to go home with something in your hand. Yet when thinking of the Academy Awards one name instantly springs to mind. That name is David Cronenberg. Not because he has won any Oscars, nor does his name spring to mind because he has ever been nominated but instead it is because he has never been nominated at all, ever. This is a director who has been described by Oscar winning director Martin Scorsese as “No one makes movies like his” and cult genius, John Carpenter said “Cronenberg is better than all the rest of us combined”. It is absolutely absurd that a director of this calibre, who single handedly created his own genre and inspired the next decade of cinema, has been completely ignored by the old, decrepit members of the Academy. Okay, so Cronenberg’s early films such

as Scanners and Videodrome were never going to be Oscar bait, they were far too interesting for that. But the likes of his later films such as A History of Violence and A Dangerous Method were far more likely to get at least a nod from the Academy, but nothing. Cronenberg’s absence from the Academy’s nominations is the perfect example of their dull and ancient view of cinema. This is an academy that failed to even nominate Christopher Nolan for best director for Inception and the same academy that also awarded The English Patient, one of the dullest films ever made, over the Coen’s Fargo. And this year is no exception. The Academy chose a rather predictable list of nominations that lacked any surprise at all.

The likes of Looper and The Cabin in the Woods, two films with interesting, original scripts, deserved at least a best original

screenplay nomination. Whereas British films have been all but ignored by the Academy, the likes of Peter Strickland’s Berberian Sound Studio were predictably over looked, a great loss on the Academy’s part. The likes of The Dark Knight Rises, The Imposter and Skyfall all failed to get a nod from the Academy. So whether Spielberg’s Lincoln or Tom Hooper’s Les Miserables walks home with the statue today, I believe the statue’s rightful place is in the hands of David Cronenberg.

Would you like to review a film or DVD? E-mail us at [email protected]

Jolie’s leg overshadows Cronenberg’s talent.

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TV just gets dumber & dumberI DON’T know if it’s the fact that I’m

getting older and grumpier, but I’ve got the growing suspicion that

television just isn’t good any more.

Gone are the days of fresh ideas, gripping plot lines and enthralling dialogue; no more are the days where you could throw yourself down on the sofa for the evening and find a couple of things that would keep you interested until you dragged yourself to bed; we’ve said farewell to original concepts.

Instead, we’ve welcomed reality television and fly-on-the-wall shows, drab American comedies and boring ‘whodunnit’ murder mysteries into our homes, endlessly recycling until you’ve accidentally seen every episode without trying. Either the person in charge of scheduling has been replaced by a four year old or they just have the attention span of one.

There’s nothing like watching an episode of Big Bang Theory that’s been repeated three times already today to make you feel like hitting yourself on the head with the remote repeatedly until you slip into unconsciousness, which is pretty much what watching it feels like anyway. It’s just Friends with additional whiteboards, people, get over it. Whilst we’re at it, I’d also like to get in a quick dig at New Girl - you’re not quirky, Jess, you’re deranged.

Despite my hatred, some of the reality series that I’ve seen have been truly eye opening: My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding has had a lot of complaints, but going into a community that prides itself on being on the outskirts of society and opening the eyes of people to their customs and

culture is a good thing.

Yes, you might argue that it’s exploitative, but I prefer to go with the line that making people aware of what goes on is valuable in helping us understand. Plus, it’s given me some fantastic ideas for any potential future weddings – I’m thinking of going with a bright, aqua blue dress with a 30 foot train which will have a dolphin-themed corset, and tins of dolphin-friendly tuna sewn onto the netting. When you press a special button, you’ll hear the sound of dolphins clicking while a small stream of water is shot into your face.

However, with reality TV being cheap to create and almost guaranteed to be a hit, it’s all too easy to abuse. For example, The Valleys, Sun Sex &

Suspicious Parents, Junior Doctors… All need little more than a camera crew to follow people around to make an entire programme. It’s lazy programming at its worst and it serves only to make a mockery of us.

It’s not that I want all of my TV listings to be full of BBC4 calibre programming, you understand, I’d just appreciate it if producers and directors remembered that some of us have an IQ higher than 60. Alright, I might occasionally partake in Jeremy Kyle, but it doesn’t mean I don’t recognise quality when I see it.

Of course, I could just stop watching this drivel, but then I’d have to stop whinging and find something else to fill my time.

By Catrin Lewis

BIG FAT GYPSY WEDDING: Providing fashion inspiration since 2010.

What’s coming up in SwanseaComedy Club: Swansea Grand Theatre. February 27, 8pm. £9.50. Do you and your friends fancy a change from your weekly session on Wind Street? Every last Wednesday of each month, some of the best acts on the circuit come together in Swansea’s Grand Theatre to provide a night of cabaret style comedy. Over the past 10 years, the Comedy Club has seen the likes of the talented Jason Manford, Rhod Gilbert, Russell Kane and Marcus Brigstock pass through, so you might not know the comedians you see now, but they’ll soon be on the up!

Poets at the Dylan Thomas Centre with Jo Bell. February 28, 7:30pm. £1.60 - £4. Jo Bell’s poetry is about archaeology, friendship, boats and sex - all the important things in life. Former Director of National Poetry Day and poet in

residence for Glastonbury Festival, Jo works and performs across the UK. Often working in collaboration with others, her current project is a joint book with Martin Malone

about fortysomething lovers and the difficulties they face. She is the UK’s first Canal Poet Laureate, writing and encouraging others to write about the inland waterways. The night also includes an open mic session.

John Lill plays Schumann with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales: Brangwyn Hall. March 8, 7:30pm. £12.50-£15.50 John Lill, one of Britain’s best-loved pianists, is the soloist in the gentle poetry of Schumann’s Piano Concerto. Playing with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the night promises a night of superb classical music in one of the most beautiful venues in South Wales. Passionate, tempestuous but with one of the great serene slow movements in all English music, Schumann’s Piano Concerto grips audiences now as strongly as when it was written.

Yes, that was me, singing in Mandarin!ON Sunday 10th February, I attended Swansea’s Chinese New Year celebrations, made possible with thanks to Swansea University, the Chinese Cooperation Centre and the Waterfront Museum, writes Alan Daventry.The New Year celebrations - or the Spring Festival - holds an important place in Chinese culture, serving as its most important annual holiday.

The importance placed on the festivities demonstrates how Swansea is open to other cultures and ways of life.

The festivities had stands offering an insight into the various aspects of Chinese culture. They range from fortune-tellers offering predictions about your future, most of which are good (though I’ve been told bad ones do exist!), to those that make tea.

I was one of a group of singers performing songs in Mandarin; Many of the singers were either studying beginners or intermediate Mandarin, though fluent speakers took part too.

Other similarly impressive performances included the well known lion dancers. Children were also given smaller costumes to play around with and join in the fun, much to the delight of their watching parents.

2013 is the Year of the Snake. Although long way off I recommend you make the effort to see next year’s festivities.

Poet Jo Bell.

SHOWTIME NEEDS YOU

We need new writers to contribute to the page and you could be one of them!

If you’re interested in books, television, art,

dance, theatre or comedy, this is the place for you.

Writing for The Waterfront is a great way to meet new

friends, do something new and add valuable experience to your CV.

If you’re interested, email the Showtime Editor,

Catrin, at:waterfrontculture@

swansea-union.co.uk

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societies

30ENHANCE YOUR STUDENT EXPERIENCE - WITH ALEX WARD

want to know more about societies? Check out www.swansea-union.co.uk/activities

Drama Soc brings Oscar Wilde to life

ALL across the UK, Christian Unions held their events week during 11th – 15th February.

Braving the rain and wind to hand out flyers to students all over campus, the Swansea Christian Union has been hosting free lunches and challenging the student community to answer some of life’s big questions.

Despite acknowledging that there may be some stereotypes associated with the Christian Union, Jayne Armstrong said on behalf of the Union: “The CU events week is a

great time to break down some of those misconceptions and barriers and get chatting and discussing.”

This is certainly true to what they have been doing, the week titled “DISCUSS” saw Lewis Roderick on Tuesday 12th, speaking to over 60 people – both Christian and non-Christian – in a talk titled “Why does a good God let people suffer?”

Including a commentary on the Japanese tsunami, which occurred a year ago, the talk was a great success, stimulating the students to listen over a free lunch and ask several

questions with some lively debate afterwards.

All week the Christian Union has been enticing students to join in as they pass Fulton House, writing on a whiteboard their answers to what they think is wrong with the world.

Explaining one of the reasons for the week, Armstrong added: “The reason we put on a week like this is because the thing we are united around as a CU is our love for one guy from history – Jesus.”•Contact: [email protected]

AT the end of the month in Swansea’s YMCA, Shoreline Theatre brings Oscar Wilde into the Jazz Age with an aristocratic flourish that would make Jay Gatsby blush.

Jack Worthing, played by Laurence Atkinson, a responsible upper class country land-owner in England, has been living through his alias Earnest in order to lead a life of reckless amusement in the town.

His best friend Algernon (Ollie Jones) lives his life through his invented invalid friend Bunbury to escape his eccentrically unpleasant aunt, Lady Bracknell (Pearl Nunn).

Worlds collide with comic and farcical consequences when the two men adopt Earnest’s name to their prospective love interests, Gwendolen Fairfax (Sophie Muzika) and Cecily Cardew (Jess Robinson). Also starring are Ella Potts, Simon Thompson, Aidan Peppin and Tim Gilbert.

Matthew Ebbs, Shoreline Theatre’s President, said: “After a difficult series of events, the cast have shown a true talent in pushing forward with the production with a great effort and a lot of time given up on their parts. They have managed to bring the production up to a fantastic standard and deserve a lot of respect for the aptitude for acting and the professionalism they’ve displayed.

“Throughout this year, I’ve been incredibly impressed by the huge array of skilled and adept acting and directing that has been displayed by Shoreline; they continue to impress me massively, whether it’s a case of preparing for months to produce a truly fantastic piece of theatre, or rehearsing in under a week, a feat undertaken already twice this year, to produce some incredibly entertaining, funny, thought provoking and moving short one-act plays.

“Not only that, but some real friendships have been formed within the society through rehearsals and socials alike. Shoreline is a truly fantastic society.”•You can see The Importance of Being Earnest on February 27 and 28 at the YMCA, St Helen’s Road, Swansea.

The glitterball, the costumes, the moves... it’s Strictly Swansea-style!THE glitz and glam of Strictly

Come Dancing never fails to impress on TV every year and

SU Dance Society have decided it’s time to bring some of the glamour to Swansea, writes Chloe Franchina.

This evening, Monday 25th February, they are holding a Strictly Come Dancing event in Oceana where everyone can come along to see our officers and members of our sports’ teams battle it out on the dance floor.

Each officer and team have been paired up with a dance style and have received training from the talented teachers of the SU Dance Society. They will all perform their dance on stage in Oceana, in a brilliant battle for the glitter ball!

All proceeds will be going to charity as the event is raising money for a very important charity right on the university’s doorstep – Royal National Lifeboat Institution in Mumbles.

After the show, everyone will conveniently be in Oceana ready for the after party, where everyone can celebrate the win for the lucky contestant (and teacher!) who conquer the stage.

It seems that the SU Dance Society is encouraging us all to ‘keep dancing’!

“I’m so excited to host Strictly this year,” said Rosie Hunnam, Societies and Student Development Co-ordinator.

“It’s a hilarious night where our very much beginner dancers get to have a go at what our dance society do best! I can’t wait to see their moves and OTT costumes.”

Christian events week sparks a good debate

DIRTY DANCING: Get ready for some Strictly glamour, Swansea-style!

Email your questions to [email protected]

Dear Aunt Catrin

There’s a guy I know who’s a little bit creepy. He’s nice and well-meaning but can come across a bit strong. I’ve just got into a relationship with another guy and I’m not sure how he’s going to take it.

Love, Sophie

Dear Sophie,

Firstly, let me congratulate you on your new, blossoming relationship! Those first few months are excellent – everything the other does is wonderful, you can’t keep your hands off each other, and you hang on their every word. However, once that time elapses, you’re going to want to invest in a shovel and a nice patch of ground in a hidden away part of the forest for when he’s stolen the duvet and snored in your ear for the third night in a row. So yes, enjoy it while it lasts!Now, your dilemma: everyone has one of those friends who’s lovely, but just has a hint of over-eagerness and awkward about them, don’t they? It’s not that they mean any harm, they’re just probably not quite as socially developed. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, of course, it’s just another aspect of their personality you have to accept and learn to love. The main thing that hits me from your question is that you don’t actually specify whether he likes you or not. If not, then assume that it won’t cause an issue between you and carry on as normal. However, if he does, this is where it can get a little complicated. Having been in this situation myself – I didn’t realise prior to this that it was possible to have more than one person like you at a time; my self-confidence sky rocketed when I learnt that there are two people in the world who don’t think I’m hideous – I stick with the mantra that honesty truly is the best policy. You can do whatever you want in terms of trying to hide it but eventually he’s just going to find out another way.Be honest, but don’t rub it in his face. If you’re one of those ‘I must take a picture of everything positive that happens to me!’ types, then stop it. Firstly, you’re a true first-world problem by clogging up my news feed, and secondly, you’re going to make it even worse for him.Good luck!

Dear Aunt Catrin,

I know this girl who is really sweet and attractive and I would really like to get to know her more (if you know what what I mean!) She’s been a little distant from me, so I’m seeing someone else now. Should I still try it with her or go with this new bit of crumpet?

From Alex

Crumpet? Are you seriously referring to a member of the female sex as ‘crumpet’? Alex, girls are not delicious griddle cakes that can be warmed in a toaster and smothered in jam. We are independent beings who don’t tend to enjoy being referred to as inanimate objects.Now, as I’ve gotten my feminist rant of the day out of the way, I can get to the point.I’m a little concerned that despite the fact you’ve found yourself someone, you’re still considering going back to this other girl whom you seem to be over-interested in. I think you need to make your mind up about who you truly want and stick with it, rather than running back and forth between the two in your head.Remember, you must make a plan and stick with it, even if you decide that you’d rather be on your own: Don’t become that person nobody respects because you don’t have respect for anyone yourself.

(Aunt Catrin is unqualified to give real advice and so all responses are intended to be more amusing than serious. The Waterfront recognises that occasionally she can’t even manage that, so please take all letters with a pinch of salt and refer to proper, grown-up professionals for real advice.)

25 February 2013waterfrontonline.co.uk 31relationships

Ask Aunt Catrin

Blind Date When Lauren met Josh

Lauren Miles, a 20-year-old Geography student, and Josh Allard, a 21-year-old Politics student, meet in JC’s for The Waterfront blind date.

Lauren on JoshWhat were your first impressions? First impressions were he seemed nice and normal, bold choice of jumper.

What do you think of the choice of venue? JC’s... standard place isn’t it.

Any striking conversation points? Erm, not really.

Did you wonder why he wasn’t in a relationship at any point?No, I didn’t wonder why he was single. If that sounds bad I don’t mean it to.

If you were to be married and have babies, what would you want your baby to inherit?I think I would like the child to have his eyelashes, they were long!

Any potential for a kiss? Didn’t smooch the boy, he’s a stranger!

Out of ten, what is your compatibility score with the other person? I don’t know what compatibility means but if you’d let me know I will gladly answer that question.

Would you introduce him to your parents? I think he is someone you would introduce to your parents. He was polite, you see.

Would you like to meet again? I’m not sure. He was a splendid chap but I don’t know if I shall be seeing him again.

How do you think the date went?I think the date went quite well. No awks silences we had a splendid chat and I managed to not do anything stupid!

Josh on LaurenWhat were your first impressions?Good, she looked nice. Naturally very pretty too.

What do you think of the choice of venue?JC’s is convenient and always has a good atmosphere, not too busy but busy enough.Any striking conversation points?There were many, I struggle to think of anything we didn’t talk about.

Did you wonder why she wasn’t in a relationship at any point?Besides the fact she works in McDonalds, yes I was very surprised.

If you were to be married and have babies, what would you want your baby to inherit?Her eyes for sure and her sense of humour. Girls don’t often have good banter, but she was an exception to the rule.

Any potential for a kiss? Unfortunately not this time around.

Out of ten, what is your compatibility score with the other person?After just one date, that’s impossible to say. But if I had to give an answer, 7.

Would you introduce her to your parents? I’d be a fool not to.

Would you like to meet again?I’ll put it to you like this, she came to see me at work the day after. Cheeky. Make of that what you will.

How do you think the date went?Does Dolly Parton lie on her back?

•If you are interested in featuring in the blind date, email your name, age, course and level to [email protected].

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32LIGHTWEIGHT COMPUTING POWER gadgets

I AM a final year Business Management student who plays rugby and enjoys a good Wednesday night out. As

part of my degree I have chosen to do a business project increasing the awareness of Ultrabooks to you, the students of Swansea University, writes Tom Hughes.

The project’s success will be measured by how many of you at the end of the year know what an Ultrabook is!

So what exactly is an Ultrabook? Intel came up with the term Ultrabook™ in 2011 to describe a new category of laptops that are lightweight, powerful and very thin. They are available in a variety of models and screen sizes, from 11 to 20 inches and weigh between 1.3 and 8 kilograms. Laptops must fit within these parameters - plus others such as Z-height (thickness), which has to be less than 0.7inches - to be able to call themselves an Ultrabook.

Ultrabooks are powered by Intel ultra-low voltage CPUs and are manufactured by all big computer companies such as Dell, HP and Toshiba to compete with growth in the tablet market as well as the extremely popular Apple MacBook. Ultrabooks offer a reasonable,

affordable compromise between portability and performance. Netbooks, whilst extremely portable, often lack the performance a student needs for it to be their primary computing device, whereas a high performance laptop often lacks the portability students need to work on the go. This combination of performance and portability, in addition to a 5 hour-plus battery life, makes an Ultrabook perfect for students.

Ultrabooks range in cost. Special promotions in big stores mean you can snap one up for £400, a lot cheaper than a MacBook. However, touch screen versions, models with extra features and more powerful processors can set you back close to £1,000, but you can get a very good one for around £600.

Ultrabooks may seem like the perfect laptop but they do have some drawbacks. Due to many of the models

being so thin, they lack some features you would expect from a laptop. Many Ultrabooks do not come with a CD drive as the manufacturers cannot fit them into the chassis, but ask yourself, when was the last time you used it? The other negative is that some specialized ports such as VGA or HDMI may not be available. However, there are extensions of these which you can buy that plug into USB ports, of which thankfully Ultrabooks have two or even three.

So are Ultrabooks a good option for students? Yes, if portability, performance and design at an affordable price are important to you when you buy a laptop. It can last a day’s worth of lectures; you can watch films without having to plug the charger in half way through and with the latest generation on Ultrabooks that have twist, swivel and detachable touch screens, you can have a laptop and tablet in one. However, if you require the use of heavy graphics, for example hardcore gaming, and portability is not a priority, it might be best to consider other options.•An event showcasing the latest Ultrabooks will be in front of Fulton House on March 12.

New laptop? The only way is ultra

NEW GENERATION: Tom Hughes compares a heavy old laptop with a new light Ultrabook.

careers

PGCE SECONDARYVACANCIES FORSEPTEMBER 2013In your final year and about to graduateor maybe you’re uncertain about yourfuture and looking for a change incareer?

If you hold, or about to hold, a degree orequivalent qualification in any of thesubjects opposite why not study for aPGCE in secondary school teaching andgain qualified teacher status. Teaching isa rewarding profession which can offergreat career prospects and competitiverates of pay.

Apply now through GTTR atwww.gtr.ac.uk or [email protected] for further details.

www.smu.ac.uk

THOUGHTABOUTTRAININGTO TEACH?

LLEOEDD GWAGTAR UWCHRADD ARGYFER MEDI 2013Ydych chi yn eich blwyddyn olaf ac arfin graddio neu efallai eich bod yn ansicr am eich dyfodol ac yn dymuno newid eichgyrfa?

Os oes gennych, neu os ydych ar fin cael,gradd neu gymhwyster cyfwerth mewnunrhyw rai o’r pynciau gyferbyn, pam nawnewch chi astudio TAR mewn addysg ysgoluwchradd a chael statws athro cymwysedig.Mae addysgu’n broffesiwn boddhaus a allcynnig rhagolygon gyrfa grêt a chyfraddautâl cystadleuol.

YDYCH CHI WEDIYSTYRIED CAELEICH HYFFORDDII ADDYSGU?

WHAT

ARE YOUR

PLANS AFTER

GRADUATING?

BETH A FYDDWCH

CHI’N EI WNEUD

AR ÔL

GRADDIO?

*yn amodol ar gadarnhad terfynol

PGCE SECONDARYINFORMATION MORNINGTUESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2013THE SWANSEA SCHOOL OF EDUCATION,TOWNHILL CAMPUSIf you would like to attend, please registerYOUR place by contacting Kim Wills on01792 481202 or email [email protected]

Gwnewch gais nawr trwy GTTR ynwww.gttr.ac.uk neu cysylltwch â [email protected] am ragor o fanylion.

www.smu.ac.uk

BORE GWYBODAETH TARUWCHRADDDYDDMAWRTH 5 CHWEFROR 2013YSGOL ADDYSG ABERTAWE, CAMPWS TOWNHILLOs hoffech ddod i hwn, cofrestrwch drwygysylltu â Kim Wills ar 01792 481202neu anfonwch e-bost i [email protected]

PGCE/TAR 2013 � ART AND DESIGN � BIOLOGY� BUSINESS STUDIES� CHEMISTRY � CYMRAEG� DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY� ENGLISH � GEOGRAPHY� HISTORY � ICT� MATHEMATICS� MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES:

FRENCH/FRENCH WITH GERMAN/FRENCH WITH SPANISH/GERMAN WITH FRENCH

� PHYSICS � RELIGIOUS EDUCATION� SCIENCE 11-16

� CELF A DYLUNIO � BIOLEG� ASTUDIAETHAU BUSNES� CEMEG � CYMRAEG� DYLUNIO A THECHNOLEG� SAESNEG � DAEARYDDIAETH� HANES � TGCH� MATHEMATEG� IEITHOEDD TRAMOR MODERN:

FFRANGEG/FFRANGEG GYDAG ALMAENEG/FFRANGEG GYDA SBAENEG/ALMAENEG GYDA FFRANGEG

� FFISEG � ADDYSG GREFYDDOL� GWYDDONIAETH 11-16

SMU-PGCE-hpage-waterfront-Oct12_SMU-PGCE-hpage-waterfront-Oct12 30/10/2012 17:43 Page 1

careers


How to get a job in the media industry

TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) is an employment, work experience and travel option open to almost anyone. The only prerequisite is a native or near-native level of English speaking and no formal qualifications or teaching experience is necessary.

TEFL Wales is offering TEFL courses in Cardiff, Bangor, Aberystwyth and Swansea. Classroom courses are completed in one weekend (20-hours) or over a Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (30-hours). Once a course is completed you receive a TEFL qualification which can then be used to apply for work in countries all over the world, including Burma,

Thailand, Spain, France, Italy, China and Sri Lanka.

TEFL Wales currently lists well over 150 jobs on their TEFL Jobs Centre in around 50 different countries. Online courses are also available, as well as courses which combine online and classroom learning for the best qualification on offer.

Joe Hallwood, co-founder of TEFL Wales, said: “TEFL is a fantastic option for those who want to live and work abroad, even if only for a short while. The courses on offer are affordable and accessible, and allow people the chance to change their life and have an experience unlike any other.”

TEFL gives you the chance to

work somewhere completely new and unfamiliar with people from a variety of backgrounds, increasing your cultural understanding and awareness.

Upcoming classroom course dates include: Swansea: Mar 2-Mar 3 Cardiff: Mar 16-Mar 17

TEFL Wales, which also incorporates TEFL England, TEFL Scotland and TEFL Courses Ireland, is the most highly accredited TEFL provider in the UK. They provide various courses which are affordable and widely accessible and provide people with the skills, confidence and knowledge to teach English abroad.

JAMES Emtage is the Digital Producer for Mentorn Media. Samantha Booth spoke to him at the production of BBC3’s Free Speech programme about how he became involved with television production and his advice to soon-to-be graduates.

My role at Mentorn TV is digital producer, which means dealing with the social network aspects of shows. I have broad experience within the media as my background is mainly in comedy, entertainment and food programmes.

I always wanted to get in to media however I studied psychology at Cardiff University because when I chose my degree I wasn’t entirely sure whether I wanted to study it or not. The advantages of studying this meant I had quite a lot of free time and Cardiff has a particularly active media society, radio and magazine so I just got involved with that and started work experience, mainly for BBC Wales, including Doctor Who. I was involved with Christopher Eccleston’s first series, which paved the way for when I graduated.

The first bit of advice is to prepare yourself to do at least six months running and try and do most of that when you’re at university because when you graduate you can show your experience. Now when I meet graduates who haven’t done much work experience I think “you did have a lot of time at university to do this”.

In terms of skill sets for the industry, it really depends what you want to go into. I see many graduates that come out of a media degree with high standards about what they want to do but you have to be prepared to do anything. Running jobs are some of the best because it means you can speak to a wide variety of people, which can be hard once you climb the job ladder.

Free Speech is on BBC Three at 8pm on Wednesday 6th March.

Forty new teaching jobs up for grabs in south Wales SWANSEA students are being

invited to apply for 40 new teaching jobs, which have been

created by the charity Teach First expanding into South Wales, writes Emma McKay.

Teach First is working with others to give every child the right to a decent education and quality of life. There is a persistent shortage of excellent teachers working in schools in challenging circumstances in Wales.

Teach First are working hard to fill this gap, but they can’t do it alone. This is where YOU come in. From September 2013, Teach First will place 40 teachers in secondary schools across South Wales. The charity is looking for graduates to teach Maths, Science, English and Modern Foreign Languages.

Dr Philip Dixon, Director of education union ATL, said: “This is good news for Wales…All youngsters should have access to high quality teachers and Teach First is part of the process that helps ensure that aspiration becomes reality.”

Deprivation is a significant problem in Wales. If you grow up in a low-income community, statistics show that you will not have the same chances in life as your wealthier neighbour. You are less likely to go to university, find a decent job and lead a happy, healthy life. As Teach First has just celebrated its tenth successful anniversary in England, it is delighted to have been given the opportunity to build upon its success

in South Wales. So why not work for the UK’s largest graduate employer in 2012-13?

Apply to the Teach First Leadership Development Programme and you’ll be developed to become an outstanding teacher in a school in a low-income community. You’ll work towards your PGCE with The South West Wales Centre of Teacher Education, whilst receiving a salary and getting real responsibility in the classroom from day one.

To register your interest and start an application visit the website: www.teachfirst.org.uk/graduates

Join the Teach First group on Facebook for Swansea University students: www.facebook.com/groups/477554615617739/

The final deadline for applications is 20 March 2013.

Emma McKay is the student brand manager for Teach First at Swansea University.

TEFL courses open up a new world of work

READY FOR CLASS: Could you teach? Photo: Academia IF

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How can I tell MyUni what I think?...

Final year Undergraduate??....

Last year, 87% of undergraduate students were satisfied with their student experience at Swansea – Are you? We need you to tell us the best things about your student experience at Swansea, as well as the things you would like us to do even better! By completing the National Student Survey you will automatically be entered into a Free Prize Draw, with the chance to win a brand new Apple iPad2! Visit http://www.thestudentsurvey.com/ and give us YOUR feedback!

Non Final year Undergraduate?...

We don’t want to wait till final year to find out what you think, we want to know how we can improve your student experience NOW. The Student Experience Survey is delivered by Swansea University and the questions are based upon the National Student Survey filled out by final years. It is open to all non-final year undergraduate students. We’ve got some fantastic prizes like Amazon vouchers, summer ball tickets and Oceana Mondays VIP packages up for grabs. You can do the survey at:

http://www.survey.swansea.ac.uk/ses2013

Postgraduate Taught student?...

The Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey is open to all Taught Postgraduate students and is delivered by the Higher Education Academy. We’ve got Amazon vouchers, Summer Ball tickets, Oceana VIP packages and loads of other goodies to give away. So tell us how we can improve your student experience: www.survey.swansea.ac.uk/ptes13

Postgraduate Researcher?...

The Postgraduate Research Experience Survey is also delivered by the Higher Education Academy, and is focused exclusively on Research students. This survey will be open 4th March 2013 – so check back here then!

For more information on the surveys and how important YOUR feedback is to us, please visit

http://www.swansea-union.co.uk/education/myuni/

Sport Swansea in just 140 charactersJohnson tops the podium

at climbing event Good_at_words

Charlie91Brown

Frankthetank74

Considering starting a Swansea University Car Rugby Club. Varsity here we come. (Harvey Richardson)

It’s days like today that makes me glad I play an indoor sport. Love netball. Hate rain.(Charlotte Brown)

Proud president. Four wins on the trot for Swansea Ti-tans. A tough 6-0 win over Exeter today. (Frankie Pankhurst)

JonathonVaughan

Fantastic win for Swansea RFC today. Conditions were horrendous but we dug in. Top four finish on the cards.(Jonathon Vaughan)

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BronlallyWe didn’t win but at least I scored my first ever goals and got man of the match. I’ll take that thank you.(Bronwyn Lally)

FOLLOWING on from Andrew Clow’s success earlier this year, Swansea University’s Mountaineering Club (SUMC) won yet more honours in a Cardiff-based bouldering competition.

Over the four individual competitions Swansea achieved four podium positions including two winners in Ryan Mann (men’s

ABOVE ALL: Swansea University’s William Johnson (above) on his way to his win at the bouldering event in Cardiff.

novices) and Will Johnson (men’s experienced).

“It was a brilliant outcome for Swansea,” said committee member Matt Everett.

“The climbs were not easy; the success shows once again the high

standards of climbing skills within the club.”

The individual successes also included third place finishes for Zara Sheady (women’s’ experienced) and Andrew Clow (men’s novices)

Due to the combined effort of the collective, the SUMC were awarded with first place in the overall team standings for the competition.

by Craig Hadley [email protected]

Annual alumni race revamp announcedSWANSEA Trotters Alumni Organisation has announced a new yearly competition in association with the new 360 Beach and Watersports centre which will take place for the first time in March.

The event will feature a 5km race to increase the access to competitive running events in the area.

The university and local councils have backed this new venture with the first taking place on March 16.

Steven Jones, founder of Swansea Trotters, said: “We founded Swansea Trotters last year, holding our first annual alumni versus university team race in March.

“Following its success, we saw potential in expanding the race into a public event.

“With support from Swansea University and Council, along with 360 Beach & Watersports on board as the event host, we believe that we have the perfect location and platform to make it a success.

“The money raised from the event will go into funding and developing the race next year, as well as a long term goal of providing financial support to the University’s Athletics & Triathlon teams.”

The course will take advantage of the majestic landscape of Swansea Bay’s promenade, starting and finishing at the 360 centre.

Running Mountaineering

36 I SPORT thewaterfront 25.02.13

SPORT I 37waterfrontonline.co.uk

Cup holders Sloth victorious in semis to book their return ticket to St Helen’s

The Ashleigh Road results round-up

SWANSEA INTRAMURAL FOOTBALL

by Tom Nightingale [email protected]

INTENSE AFFAIR: The game was a fierce affair as Team Sloth (white/blue) secured their second final in two years.

TEAM Sloth’s love affair with the SSE Cup continued, as an early winner from Tom Davies clinched a 1-0 victory over the Uni 6ths in a tight semi-final at Ashleigh Road.

Davies’ superb looping header after only seven minutes proved the difference as Sloth held off 6ths’ pressure to ensure back-to-back SSE Cup finals at St. Helens.

“It feels brilliant,” Davies said afterwards. “I just wanted to do my bit to ensure that the team were there in the final this year, and to do that by scoring the winner was fantastic.

“Despite scoring early, we were confident we could hold on. We knew the 6ths would come at us but our defence was solid.

“We approached the game like any other. We knew that if we concentrated and played our game we’d have a decent chance of going through and that’s what we did.

“The final will be one of the best moments of my life so far. I’ve heard the stories from the boys who have been there before and I can’t wait!”

The first chance of the game fell to Davies, who headed narrowly over.

But two minutes later he scored what proved to be the match-winner with an arguably more difficult

header.Sloth were the better team for the

first half, but failed to make the most of a few half chances.

However, just before half-time the 6ths had the ball in the net, but saw it ruled out, a decision which baffled their co-captain Josh Kirby.

“I didn’t see much wrong with it,” he explained. “But the ref used his best judgement and we can’t dwell on a single decision.

“We had the rest of the game to get the result we wanted and a below-par performance isn’t good enough for the Cup semis.”

The 6ths had a great second-half chance when their striker lifted the ball over the Sloth goalkeeper. However, a great defensive

Intramural injust 140 characters

Unbeaten Sevenths secure their Cup final place with victory over dogged Sub-Standard Liege

intervention prevented a goal.Sloth then had a penalty shout

turned down after Lewys Thomas looked to have been brought down.

After a nasty clash of heads between the two Sloth centre-halves, who both had to be substituted, the 6ths came within inches of equalising when they hit the bar through a Haider Al-qaddo freekick.

Sloth, though, hung on to progress to a third Cup final in four years.

TWO second-half goals, from Paul Roberts and George Thomas, ensured victory for the Swansea 7ths against Sub-Standard Liege.

The 7ths were the dominant team, having the majority of possession and two chances cleared off the line.

Roberts then showed his composure to strike midway through the second half before Thomas sealed the win by finishing off a flowing team move from a yard out.

The 7ths are now through to the Cup final and captain Josh Stanley was enthused with the result.

“They are a good side, physical and they were up for it,” he explained. “We are in the final and we have to think positive’.’

The Sub-Standard Liege captain, Tom Seabrook looked for the positives from the game.

by Nick [email protected]

He said: “In the first round, I didn’t think we would get this far, so to get to the semis makes me very proud.”

Seabrook emphasised the progress that his side have made in the five years since they have been founded: “Considering that Sub-Standard has only been going for 5 years, this is the furthest that we have ever got’’

With the 7ths now in the final of the major cup competition that they are competing in, it looks like a promising time for the 7th team with Varsity looming.

Stanley concluded: “We have to think that we can beat anyone, we played the 6’s before, we played Sloth in the Community shield at the start,. We drew with them and we have improved since then.’’ MAN OF THE MOMENT: Swansea 7th’s Paul Roberts following his decisive strike.

SPR v Photosinthesis

Early front runners Photosinthesis recent defensive woes continue, after losing 5-4 to Singleton Rangers.

They slip from first to fourth following their second defeat in a week, having gone nine matches unbeaten.

Sketty v Signature

Winless Signature remain four points adrift at the bottom of the table after a 4-1 defeat to Sketty.

Kay FC v Finishers

The Finishers bounced back from their quarter final cup exit with a convincing 3-1 win over mid-table side Kay FC.

Armadillo v Golden

Following their superb victory over high flying Grasshoppers on Sunday, Armadillo could only muster a 2-2 draw against a resilient Golden side.

Ajax v Brynmill Rangers

Ajax were in no mood to mess about this week, still smarting from their 5-0 defeat earlier this month in the cup.

Brynmill Rangers were up against it throughout and were thrashed 5-0 by the Ajax side.

BBB v History

Fans of the Bulldogs and History were greeted by a six goal thriller down at Ashleigh Road.

The game finished 3-3 and was both side’s first draw of the season.

Gladiators v Everlusen

The clash at the bottom saw Gladiators taking on Everlusen, with both sides needing the win.

As you might expect the game finished in a draw, 0-0.

Robertcook_

Ollietaylor18

1-0 win in the semi-finals. St.Helen’s for the final in two weeks time. Put it in your diaries. #TeamSloth(Robert Cook)

Great result against Arma-dillo. Fantastic effort from all the boys. I’m feeling it now though. #BrokenMan(Ollie Taylor)

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TEAM SLOTH SWANSEA UNI 6ths 1-0

SWANSEA UNI 7ths LIEGE2-0

38 I SPORT thewaterfront 25.02.13

American Football

Swansea Titans upset favourites Plymouth to make it three in a rowSWANSEA Titans continue their impressive unbeaten run, with a third consecutive win, beating Plymouth Blitz by a 32 point margin.

Offensive captain Ollie Runswick was thrilled with the performance, as Swansea’s winning streak continued.

“I’m very proud of the team’s performance,” he said.

“We were written off at three points down but we came back and we remain positive for the rest of the season.”

In typically blustery and wet conditions the Swansea side failed to stop the opening score as the Blitz took the lead.

Swansea quickly recovered to score a touchdown from their opening drive of the game.

The travelling Plymouth side were up against it, as Swansea’s ground game capitalised on a shaky defence to record score after score.

Combination play involving Josh Hughes, Ollie Runswick and Marcus

Reduced ticket incentive launchedTHE International Cricket Council (ICC) have announced reduced prices for this year’s ICC Champions Trophy competition which will include matches in Cardiff.

Having begun in 1998, the tournament showcases the eight best one-day international teams in the world competing for the prestigious prize.

The tournament sees the introduction of tickets for under-21s for the first time, priced from £10-£25.

Tournament Director, Steve Elworthy, said: “This will be a terrific opportunity for fans to see the world’s very best one-day sides in action.

“In a summer packed full of cricket, we’ve ensured that fans across England and Wales can enjoy world class cricket at exceptional value.”

The tournament begins on June 6 with the final taking place on June 23.

If you are interested in purchasing a ticket for one of the games go to: www.eticketing.co.uk/icc-champions-trophy-2013/default.aspx

Wyatt in particular offered power, trickery and speed to continue the Swansea onslaught.

The Blitz in turn looked to fight back using the pace of the squad but the Titans continued to hold strong with resulted in forced fumbles and numerous sacks of the quarterback.

As both sides traded points, it was clear the much favoured Plymouth team were out of sorts despite Swansea’s strong play, as they provided little sign of fight as the game ticked over into the final quarter.

Swansea continued to bully the Plymouth side in almost every department until the final whistle finally blew, much to the relief of the tiring Blitz team.

The win puts Swansea in the running for a playoff place which would be a feat the club have yet to

Cricket

by Simon George [email protected]

achieve in their history as a club.By the final quarter there was

little sign of fight from the Blitz who were getting bullied in almost every department. As the final whistle

blew Swansea knew that this was more than just another win but a sign that the team could be on the way to a winning season and play-off for the first time in their history.

Netball

SPORT I 39waterfrontonline.co.ukNetball

Firsts are finally back to winning ways against Cardiff Metropolitan

A mixed year for the Swansea girls

IT has been a mixed season so far for Swansea University netball club, but all three teams have plenty to play for in the last few weeks.

The 1st team currently sit fourth in Western 2B Conference, comfortably mid-table and can enjoy a relatively pressure-free final few games.

The 2nds could be set for promotion to that division, as they lead Western 3B, three points clear of Gloucestershire 2nds with two games left.

However, Swansea’s 3rd team face a battle to avoid relegation from Western 4B, as they are currently joint-bottom alongside Cardiff 5ths.

The club captain, who is also the 3rds captain, is optimistic despite her side’s struggle and believes all three teams can achieve their goals in the back end of the season.

“The 1sts have dealt well,” she explained. “Although obviously a disappointing end to last year, they have worked hard and come out with some brilliant wins over some tough teams.

“With Varsity coming up, they are working harder than ever and continue to prove themselves by progressing further through the cup.

“We are very confident with the 2nds. They have had an amazing season and we could not be more pleased with their results.

“Hopefully they can continue strong into the final few matches and overcome injuries to maintain their lead over Gloucester and to take the league title.

“As difficult a season as it has been for the thirds, they have played extremely well and dealt with problems thrown at them, such as injuries and the like.

“The results do not truly reflect the girls’ abilities, but hopefully the upcoming three games will be a turning point.

“I would say the high point of the season so far would be our 1st team progressing to the semi-final of the Western Conference Cup, with a chance to make it to the final.”

Despite their best efforts the 1st team went on to lose against their semi-final opponents Bournemouth University.

Elsewhere the 2nds side continued their strong league run with another victory, leaving them with a very strong and realistic shot at the league title.

by Tom Nightingale [email protected]

Netball

Seconds reaching new heights after home winTHE seconds team picked up their sixth win of the season against Cardiff Met to put themselves in contention for the Western 3B title.

Vice-captain Sophie Hamer praised the team’s efforts on the counter attack which she believed was vital in securing the win.

“Our counter attacking style definitely gave us the edge out there today,” she said. “The opposition were fantastic, but our girls pulled it together well.

“We’ve had a few injuries recently, but we put what we have practiced in training, namely the counter attacking style, and it’s worked well for us against Cardiff Met.”

Going into the match the 2nds were without their captain Lowri Gwillim who was missing through injury.

The first quarter was a tight affair with Swansea just shading it with a score of nine points to seven.

Swansea’s goal shooter Emily Pumford led the way for the home side scoring five of her nine attempts in the opening quarter.

Cardiff Met’s Megan Compton looked a threat throughout the opening exchanges as the away side looked to use her as the main target

for all their attacks. Despite the goal-shooter’s efforts

however, the defensive pairing of Hamer and Hannah Smith ensured she could only muster three points of her own for the Met.

Early on in the second quarter Compton was forced to leave the field for treatment after suffering a knock. She was replaced by Imogen Altmann.

The fluid attacking play of the home side took full advantage as Swansea extended their lead to six points at the halfway point.

Cardiff Met found it difficult to sustain an attacking threat with Compton out of the action, despite Altmann’s clinical nine from eleven successful baskets.

The final quarter brought a welcome surprise for the travelling side, as Compton returned to the court.

Still hampered by the injury she could not dominate as she did earlier on and failed to influence the game as she had previously.

Swansea continued to extend their lead and finished convincing winners with a score of 44-32.

by Craig Hadley [email protected]

SHOOT LIKE YOU MEAN IT: Swansea’s attacking prowess was evident against Cardiff Met.

AFTER securing a Cup semi-final place last week by beating league leaders Bristol 2nds, Swansea’s netball first team brushed aside Cardiff Met 3rds in the league.

The side were without several key players including their captain due to a series of injuries and illnesses.

Her absence left goal attack

especially when we have to do deal with issues like injuries to key players.”

The match was fast and intense from the start as both Swansea and Cardiff Met needed to secure this win to gain a substantial point difference over each other in the BUCS league.

By the halfway point, Swansea had managed establish a healthy 36-15

lead with two quarters remaining.The Met tightened up their

defensive work in the final two quarters to reduce Swansea’s scoring prowess to just ten more points.

But the final score reflected the difference in class between the sides as Swansea ran out winners with a final score of 46-21.

Angharad Morris, with the task to step up to the challenge of captaining the team against Cardiff Met.

“The team played well,” said Morris. “Our team always remains united

by Jodie O’Donnell [email protected]

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sportthewaterfront

SWANSEA THROUGH TO CUP FINAL DESPITE CONTROVERSY

Free Fortnightly Issue 225 February 25, 2013

SWANSEA firsts secured their place in the BUCS Western Conference Cup final, defeating Exeter 2nds, amidst controversial team selections.

Prior to the game Swansea made their grievances known after Exeter allegedly brought along members of their 1sts team to play.

Despite being clearly perturbed by the events, Swansea agreed to compete.

The Swansea-based side were victorious in six of the eight matches

to set up with Western 2A league-leaders Bournemouth University.

“Every player on the team deserved today’s victory,” said captain Sam Gorell.

“Now we owe it to ourselves to win the cup at the end of the season for us and for Swansea.”

Swansea themselves currently sit top of their own respective league, the

Western 2B division. Despite their agitation Swansea

started well with captain Gorell raising his game against his Exeter counterparts.

Exeter’s first seed Nick Halliwell played resiliently against Gorell but the Swansea captain’s determination was too much for him to withstand.

With Gorell on top form and Exeter putting up a tremendous fight, it was all to play for going into doubles.

Jeongyih Ho and Victor Pang were up against Exeter’s most defiant and

SWANSEA STALWART: After working his ways through the ranks of the Swansea University badminton club, Barry Garnham (above) is one of the most reliable players in the firsts.

@Waterfrontspor1 facebook.com/waterfrontsport W waterfrontonline.co.uk

Follow us and get the latest scores from around the games on a Wednesday as they come in, via our sports Twitter account.

Whether it’s the latest articles, results or photos, you can check them all out now on our sports Facebook page.

All of our articles throughout the year can be found on our website, it’s updated regularly so check it out today !

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Intramural Football

Cricket

Inside This Issue

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All three teams geared up for end of season run-in

Intramural cup throws up a cracking lineup for final

Student ticket initiative announced by the ICC

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successful doubles pairing, which consisted of their captain Alex Banks and Luke Bristow.

The first set went to the Swansea pair, Ho and Pang, who looked in inspired form returning all that Exeter through at them.

In the second, both Ho and Pang kept pushing for the win with Banks and Bristow putting as much pressure as they could on the Swansea pair.

The decisive set was a very tight one but Swansea edged it with a score of 21 points to Exeter’s 19.

by Jodie O’[email protected]

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Week 11 - February 13Men’s Rugby UnionSWANSEA 1st 6-5 HARTPURY 1st

Women’s HockeySWANSEA 1st 3-1 CARDIFF MET 2nd Men’s SquashSWANSEA 1st 3-2 CARDIFF 1st

Men’s FootballSWANSEA 2nd 4-0 GLAM 2nd

Selected Results for Week 11 & 12 Upcoming Fixtures for Weeks 13 & 14Week 12 - February 20Men’s LacrosseGLOUCS 1st 4-5 SWANSEA 1st

Women’s Rugby UnionSWANSEA 1st 15-12 UWE 1st Men’s American FootballSWANSEA 1sr 64-0 ABER 1st

Women’s BasketballB’MOUTH 1st 15-86 SWANSEA 1st

Week 13 - February 27Women’s NetballGLOUCS 3rd v SWANSEA 3rd

Men’s BasketballSWANSEA 1st v CARDIFF 1st

Women’s BadmintonSWANSEA 1st v BRISTOL 1st

Women’s LacrosseSWANSEA 1st v CARDIFF 1st

Week 14 - March 6Women’s NetballSWANSEA 2nd v GLOUCS 2nd

Men’s HockeySWANSEA 2nd v CARDIFF MED 1st Men’s RugbyUWE 1st v SWANSEA 2nd

Men’s BadmintonSWANSEA 1st v GLOUCS 1st

For the full list of fixtures for these weeks, you can go to our facebook page.Get the results quicker on our twitter from our featured games of the week.

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Issue 225

Documents

Transcript of Issue 225