University of Wollongong and Dragons Form Strategic Alliance

The University of Wollongong (UOW) and St George Illawarra Dragons have today entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to formally establish a partnership of mutual benefit for both organisations.

UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Gerard Sutton and St George Illawarra Dragons Chairman Warren Lockwood today signed the MOU document at the official announcement at the University.

The MOU formalises a commitment from both UOW and the Dragons to work co-operatively and collaboratively on joint initiatives and programs. Examples include:

• The Dragons will utilise UOW facilities for pre-season training programs in conjunction with the University Recreation and Aquatic Centre

• UOW and the Dragons will work together in developing, implementing and investigating research based programs focusing on topics related to training, performance and rehabilitation

• The Dragons will facilitate internships for UOW students within the Dragons organisation, with an emphasis on media and causal/social marketing

• UOW, through its Sydney Business School, will investigate the establishment of Dragons-specific training programs for Dragons’ players such as a Graduate Certificate in Management

• The Dragons will promote and assist UOW in attracting new commercial tenants to the UOW Innovation Campus

• The Dragons will take the necessary actions to ensure that strategic UOW health and medical research initiative(s) are formally recognised as a Dragons Charity

• UOW and the Dragons will undertake research into appropriate future community and commercially based programs in order to enhance business opportunities for both organisations

Professor Sutton described the partnership as a perfect fit for two organisations with strong community ties. “This agreement formalises collaboration between the University and the Dragons that has been increasing over the years, and opens up all kinds of exciting opportunities for both organisations,” Professor Sutton said.

“For example, our exercise science and rehabilitation students will benefit hugely from being able to work on research programs with one of the top professional sporting clubs in the country, while the players in turn should benefit from the results of our research. And our media and marketing students will gain invaluable experience as interns within the Dragons organisation.

“We are also excited about opening up possibilities for Dragons players to participate in some of our academic programs, to help them prepare for life and careers after football.”

Dragons Chairman Warren Lockwood outlined the Dragons’ confidence in the future joint initiative with UOW.

“The Dragons are very proud to support the Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Wollongong,” Mr Lockwood said. “The University is an icon of education and community commitment, both in Australia and internationally and we are delighted to partner with them on various initiatives.”

Dragons representative star and UOW student Ben Creagh was on hand to witness the signing and will be an ambassador for the partnership.

“I started playing rugby league with the University of Wollongong club and am also studying at the University so I feel very privileged to have such a strong association with both the University and the Dragons,” said Creagh.

“The University and the Dragons are key elements within the Wollongong community and this initiative will be of great benefit for both organisations as well as the local community,” he added

Also in attendance at today’s official announcement was Dragons Performance Director Jeremy Hickman who has been working closely with the Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences since pre-season training began last November.

For more information please call Nick Hartgerink 0418 424085

Last reviewed: 19 August, 2009