Thanks to a CQUniCares North Queensland Sports Foundation Scholarship, Madeleine Prizeman is making a big splash in the sport of water polo – and her studies.
The 18-year-old Townsville-based Bachelor of Science (Criminology and Psychology) student is gearing up to represent the Queensland Country team at the Australian Water Polo Countries Championships, from 26-29 May and credits her scholarship in helping to maintain focus on her sporting and study goals.
The North Queensland Sports Foundation Scholarship (valued at up to $10 000), provides recognition and financial assistance to an elite athlete or coach (recognised by the Elite Athlete Friendly University) who resides in North Queensland and is commencing the first year of a Bachelor course.
“I am so very appreciative of being awarded the CQUniCares North Queensland Sports Foundation Scholarship,” she said.
“This scholarship has already helped me continue sport whilst studying at CQU and given me the greatest opportunity to excel in Water Polo and advance my knowledge in the field of Criminology and Psychology.”
The scholarship allowed Madeleine to purchase stationery items for university and pay for travel expenses to the Championships and training sessions.
Although she loves water polo her ultimate dream is to find employment in the criminal justice system.
“I have always wanted to become a Police Officer, and I thought a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Psychology would be the best degree to help expand my knowledge of the criminal justice system, laws and the aspects of victimisation and things such as why criminals do the things they do,” she said.
“At the end of this degree, I hope to get into the police force and if I am not accepted straight away, potentially find a job in the psychology/health industry. Another option I have considered is getting a job in the courts or in a prison to help gain life experience and express my knowledge gained through this degree.”
“Juggling sport and university at first seemed hard, coming straight out of school. University was a big shock to the system, however I soon adapted to the new university life.”
“I have a set routine to ensure I am able to continue my sport and university. I ensure each week I have an appropriate balance of hours for university and training. With training being in the afternoon each day, I ensure I use my time effectively to get my university work done and once 4 o’clock comes, I turn from study/university mode to training mode. I am currently training by swimming, going to the gym and of course, undertaking water polo training.”
“CQUni has already been such a big help with settling into university and they’ve provided help whenever it is needed. The option of having an online degree is also very helpful for athletes as it allows me to re-watch lectures and tutorials if I am busy with my sport, either for training or a carnival.”
CQUni Deputy Director Philanthropy Francois Gallais said the CQUniCares Scholarship program changes lives.
“CQUni is grateful to partner with organisations like the North Queensland Sports Foundations who share the University’s passion for making a difference in the lives of our students, their families and our communities,” he said.
North Queensland Sports Foundation CEO Steve Farrell said the organisation is committed to supporting regional grass roots community sports clubs and athletes.
“It is imperative regional athletes have opportunities to develop their sporting careers and further their education whilst residing in the region,” Mr Farrell said.
“The partnership with CQUni offers financial support for athletes and we are very fortunate to have athletes such as Madeleine involved in the Scholarship program.”
The CQUniCares North Queensland Sports Foundation Scholarship is also available in Term 2, 2021. Applications are now open. Visit www.cqu.edu.au/scholarships for eligibility criteria and further information, including upcoming closing date.
