RMIT Redbacks crowned champions

RMIT University athletes have won this year's Southern University Games, setting them up for an action-packed Australian University Games in late September.

The Overall Champion trophy is awarded to the university with the highest gold medal tally at the end of the five-day event.

This year, 210 students represented the RMIT Redbacks, with 16 team-based sports being played throughout the week.

Athletes braved the winter weather in the Latrobe Valley to win six gold medals - giving RMIT a one-medal win over Monash University.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Vice-President, Professor Gill Palmer, congratulated the team on their success.

"Well done to all the competitors and medal-winners on their outstanding achievements," Professor Palmer said.

"RMIT proudly supports all students in activities and pursuits that extend beyond the classroom.

"Sport continues to play an important role in the student experience, and I look forward to following the success of the Redbacks in the Australian University Games later this year."

RMIT Link Sport and Recreation Senior Coordinator, Janelle Farley, said the win was a great achievement by the Redbacks, who were last named overall winners in 2008.

"I am extremely proud of the RMIT Redbacks, whose athletic ability and outstanding teamwork has been recognised through this win," she said.

"Of course, none of this is possible without the hard work and dedication of everyone involved - our student athletes, captains, managers, volunteers and Link Sport and Recreation staff, led by a passionate and dedicated staff member, Sally Tanner."

The infamous RMIT Redback mascot (aka Rupert) took to the field to support his teammates, winning over the crowd with his unique dance moves.

"Soccer and AFL are my favourites," Rupert said, adding the space gave him more than enough space to stretch his eight legs.

"It's been fantastic, and it's given me a chance to show off my really good abs."

The 2012 Australian University Games are being held in Adelaide from 23 to 28 September.

RMIT medal winners at the 2012 Southern University Games:

Gold
Women's AFL
Ten Pin Bowling (Team 1)
Men's Hockey
Mixed Netball
Men's Soccer
Men's Golf

Silver
Women's Hockey
Men's Tennis
Women's Tennis
Ten Pin Bowling (Team 2)

Bronze
Men's Cross Country
Cheerleading
Ten Pin Bowling (Team 3)

RMIT Women's AFL players celebrate their gold medal win.

Gold medallist netballer Rebecca Kelly lines up for goal.

RMIT Men's Hockey team celebrate their gold medal victory, after a nail-biting penalty shoot-out.

Celebrating success! Student team captains, Kieran Wallis and Louise Grant, with RMIT Link's Sally Tanner (second left) and Rupert the Redback mascot.

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