JCU at Indigenous Nationals

UniSport caught up with James Cook University (JCU) after their recent participation in UniSport Indigenous Nationals presented by bp, hosted by the University of Western Australia. The team at JCU shared a behind the scenes look at what its like being part of a multi-sport, multi-cultural event like Indigenous Nationals.

“Over the years, we saw how unique and historical this event is,” said Jason Conn, Sport and Recreation Manager at JCU, “from the origins of how it started at the University of Newcastle, to how connected these students are throughout Indigenous Nationals leading to lasting memories.” 

“As someone who has been involved with both UniSport Nationals and Indigenous Nationals over the years, I saw how different these events are and how Indigenous Nationals is not just about sport,” Conn continued. 

“We wanted to have an in-depth look throughout the week of Indigenous Nationals to not only showcase the sporting element of the event, but also the cultural aspect and the student’s experiences to help get a better understanding of what the event truly is.” 

“The video looks at both the opening and closing ceremonies, in-game highlights (including footage from a GoPro during a volleyball match), micing up some of the students prior and during the games, interviewing all 14 JCU students who competed at the event, as well as students interviewing their fellow competitors asking random questions,” Conn concluded.

Below is the video put together by the Sports and Recreation team at JCU, we encourage all to take a watch.

We will see you back at the University of Newcastle where it all began for the 30th Indigenous Nationals in 2026.