Central Queensland University’s men’s volleyball team was alert and focused Monday, even after a late night at the spectacular opening ceremony of the 2002 Northern University at the Gold Coast.

It beat Bond University by three sets to one after losing the first set before they found some rhythm and co-ordination. Bundaberg campus CQU student, Da-en Preston, played strongly at the net and said the slow start was not a problem “It’s always good to win the first game of the competition,” Da-en said. “That should get the nerves out of the way,” he said.

Gladstone campus CQU student, Aaron Bachmann was one of the prominent players in the win. Aaron said although the team had started slowly the win would give them a lot of confidence going into the next round. “Things will only get better,” Aaron said.

“Hopefully this game will have got rid of the nerves,” he said. The team came third last year and are hoping to be in the top three again at this year’s games. The women’s volleyball team, which played later but unfortunately could not repeat the men’s success, cheered the team on. Despite being led strongly by captain, Bundaberg girl Sandi Wilson, they were beaten in straight sets by Griffith University.

Story and Photos by Ross Green (CQU Newspaper Club) Photo1: Bundaberg CQU students, Sandi Wilson (left) and Melanie Knack before their first game of volleyball at the 2002 Northern University Games. Photo 2: Gladstone brothers Aaron (left) and Brendan Bachmann preparing to play volleyball for CQU.