University of Western Australia
The UWA Sports Excellence Scholarship has been awarded to first year student athlete Xavier Bates.
The Goodeve Foundation has donated funds to The University of Western Australia to provide scholarship to assist and encourage high-achieving students to pursue an undergraduate degree at the University and realise their dual career focus.
This year’s recipient, sailing athlete Xavier Bates, is currently studying a Bachelors of Commerce and represented Australia at the 2023 International Laser Class Association (ILCA) Youth & Men World Championships in Poland.
The emerging talent was able to grow as an athlete at the recent Youth World Championships and is excited to take his recent learnings into the upcoming championships in Europe.
"It was an eye-opening experience to travel and compete in locations that are resourced differently and also witnessing new experiences and cultures in Poland."
UWA Student Athlete, Xavier Bates
“I look forward to competing in Ireland for the 2024 ILCA Youth World Championships because of the anticipated conditions. I definitely favour the big waves and winds because we get those conditions quite consistently in Australia,” Xavier said.
Xavier is wanting to take his talents to the next level, aspiring to secure a spot at the 2036 Olympics and ultimately achieve his dream goal of competing in one of the pinnacle events in the sailing world, the America’s Cup.
“The scholarship will be able to support my academic and sporting endeavours especially the cost of competition overseas for sailing.” he expressed.
Xavier has enjoyed his first semester on campus with the facilities and support networks a highlight for the undergraduate student.
UWA Sport congratulates Xavier Bates on winning the Sports Excellence Scholarship and wishes him well in his upcoming sailing competition in Ireland.
For more information on available scholarships and the UWA Student Athlete Development Program visit here.