Meet Alex: UniSQ Elite Athlete

Whether flying through the air competing in triple jump or flying through the skies in a plane, Alex Epitropakis is soaring to new heights.

Alex is a Bachelor of Aviation student at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) and a member of the University’s Elite Athlete program.

We sat down with him to hear about his journey, including his latest performance at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Peru.

How was the experience in Peru?

Lima is a totally different city than Brisbane. Eleven million people live in the city, and there is a mix of ancient sites and modern buildings. We were lucky to do sightseeing during a one-week camp before the competition.

How did you perform at the World Athletics U20 Championships?

I jumped on the first day. It was very nerve-wracking as it was my biggest competition ever. I managed to control my nerves and do a jump that qualified me for the final, meaning no matter what, I would be in the top-12 in the world. Unfortunately, I injured my heel in the heat. Triple jump is pretty hard on the heels and knees. We were hoping that I’d be okay for the final.
The warm-up for the final went well on the grass, but the competition track was a lot harder. I managed to do one jump before retiring due to the injury. Unfortunately, it was a foul. I know I could have finished higher than I did, but I'm very proud of finishing top-12 in my first international competition.

What's your next goal?

I’m grateful for my experience at the U20 champs and will learn a lot from it. I have a great team around me, including my coach Stacey Taurima, who has been my coach for the past four years, and my parents, who have supported me every step of the way. Hopefully, I can get the opportunity to compete internationally again soon. The next goal is World Uni Games next year.

What made you choose to study aviation and what is your career aspiration?

When I was about two or three years old, living in Mackay, I loved watching the planes land over the road next to the airport. I’ve always loved planes and flying. Since I was about nine, I have been very interested in becoming a pilot and now I have a chance to fulfil that dream. My career aspiration is to eventually become an international pilot and travel to some great destinations.

Why did you choose to study at UniSQ?

I did some research on the course offered at UniSQ and lots of students recommended aviation at this uni. The course structure, being trimesters, also helps fast-track the university degree, which I love. When I attended last year’s open days, I made the decision to put UniSQ as my first choice after spending a lot of time talking with Tash (Natasha Heap, Lecturer of Aviation). I also liked getting an early offer, which relieved the pressure on my final exams at school.

What is your advice to UniSQ student-athletes considering applying for the Elite Athlete program?

My advice would be to talk to the University and apply for the elite athlete status as soon as you start. It is possible to pursue a university degree and chase your sporting dream. The online application process is easy. Make sure you put in as much information as you can about your achievements and your aspirations and have really good references from your coach and, if possible, from your club/association.

How has the Elite Athlete program helped you?

Being in the Elite Athlete program has been a big help when travelling, training, and competing frequently while trying to focus on classes and finish exams and assignments. The University has been flexible on the number of subjects I’ve been studying for the last trimester when I was preparing for the World U20 Championships, and the lecturers gave great advice on my questions about reducing the number of subjects without affecting my next trimester or prerequisites for other subjects.Being in the Elite Athlete program also helped with my entry into the UniSport Nationals.