Sam Stewart (Centre top) with members of the Indonesian soccer team in Malaysia.
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Kicking Goals in Malaysia with the University of Melbourne Soccer Club
Sam Stewart, final year Bachelor of Science (Informatics) student talks about playing with the Melbourne University Soccer Club.
When did you get involved in playing soccer?
I started off playing Indoor Soccer with high school friends back when I was 12. I got addicted and played every opportunity I got (3 or 4 matches a week). When I was 16 I shifted over to outdoor soccer, when I joined the u/18 squad with the Mornington Peninsula Soccer Club. I started playing with the University of Melbourne Soccer Club for just over six months. I began playing with the Provisional 2 Reserve squad but have now moved to the State 3 Reserve squad.
What do you love about playing soccer?
I love the fact that Soccer is a sport with no international boundaries, you can go anywhere in the world, and enjoy a kick around with people you can't speak a word to, have never met before, and will probably never meet again.
Personally, I'm a goalkeeper, so I like to take control of the game from the back line. Goalkeeping is a unique position that requires leadership, rapid decision-making skills, clear communication and constant vigilance, even when you're not in possession of play. It's a unique mix of responsibility.
What is a recent tournament you’ve played?
Last month, I returned from the Inaugural World Intercity Invitational Football Tournament in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A team of twenty players and officials from the University of Melbourne Soccer Club attended to represent both the University and the City of Melbourne, having accepted the Lord Mayor Robert Doyle’s invitation to participate.
We trained hard and initially performed well, beating home team Kuala Lumpur 4-1 and drawing 0-0 with Indonesian team Bandung, before losing to eventual champions Isfan of Iran. We had a great time, and I had the chance to meet some incredibly talented players.
What do you do outside of university and soccer?
I work part time at the University, in the Office of the Provost's Communication and Advice team. I administrate the Student Portal Notices System. The people are great, but unfortunately, it is as exciting as it sounds.
I have been a Host & Organiser for the Destination Melbourne orientation program for the past 3 years. I currently hold a committee position for the Informatics and Information Systems Student's Society.
How to you juggle studying, working and playing sport?
I try as much as possible to plan ahead. If I know I've got something due on Wednesday, but uni all day Tuesday with training on that night, I'll try and get the work done on Monday evening. If that doesn't work for me, I know I'd much rather be outside running around, so I use training sessions as rewards. I have a strong sense of commitment to the Melbourne Uni team. Turning up late, or not at all, to a training session is generally frowned upon, so that's an added level of motivation to get my work done on time.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I'm fortunate enough to have a graduate position with PWC, in the role of an Information Security Consultant. I'll be a professional hacker. Nerds have all the fun!
For more information about joining the Melbourne University Soccer Club visit http://www.musc.com.au/