Sport report: VU Vultures at 2025 UniSport Nationals

The annual competition, which this year brought together more than 6,500 student-athletes from universities across Australia, is one of the country’s largest multi-sport events.  

VU’s team competed across seven teams and in one individual sport – in what was a week of athleticism, teamwork, and university pride. 

The Vultures brought their passion to: Mixed AFL9s, Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Men’s Football, Men’s Golf, Mixed and Women’s Netball, and Women’s Taekwondo.  

Competition highlights

• Sarah Upton defended her title in the Women’s Taekwondo (poomsae) division and secured her second consecutive gold medal.  
• Our Men’s Football team brought their tactical discipline and competitive spirit to the Division 1 competition, finishing in fifth place.  
• The Mixed AFL9s team advanced deep into finals contention before narrowly missing out in the bronze medal match.  

As team manager, I saw the Vultures support each another, from early-morning fixtures to late-night finishes – across every venue, with camaraderie that defines VU’s sporting culture. The students created lasting memories. 

Bachelor of Applied Movement Sciences/Master of Physiotherapy student and team co-captain Alannah Ranolio said she “could not have been luckier in having a more fun, dedicated and diverse group of people to have shared this experience with.” 

 I am proud of the sense of community and positive memories we were able to build together.

Master of Business Administration student and co-captain Matias Gonzalez is already looking forward to next year.  

“The opportunity to lead such a fantastic group of individuals is something I will cherish for a long time. It amazes me how close we become in such a short time, which shows on the courts and pitches. It is a truly memorable experience which makes us all want to come back the following year,” Matias said. 

Our representation at the UniSport Nationals comes after successful year of representation for VU Sport, with strong showings in the University Basketball League and National Championships for Swimming, Athletics, Triathlon and 3x3 Basketball. 

Want to get involved in the 2026 UniSport Nationals? Find out how you can represent VU in sport.