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As the academic year comes to a close, South East Technological University’s (SETU) is celebrating students across its campuses who have shown outstanding commitment to sports, clubs, and societies, contributing to a strong sense of community and enhancing student experience at the University.

SETU has a range of clubs and societies in operation across its Carlow, Waterford, and Wexford campuses, with students bringing these groups to life each year. These clubs and societies build community on SETU’s campuses and give students the opportunity to participate and develop new hobbies and interests alongside their academic endeavours. From taking part as a committee member, elite sports performer, leader, coach, or administrator, to coming along as a weekly participant or supporter, these student-centred sports clubs and societies are at the heart of the student experience.

SETU student winners at the University’s annual Sports, Clubs, and Societies Awards 2024 at the university’s Kilkenny Road campus, Carlow

Speaking about the awards, David Denieffe, Vice President for Student Experience said, “SETU’s sports clubs and societies are a fundamental aspect of student life at our university. And it is pivotal to recognise the role our students play in taking part and developing these groups during their time here. Student experience is as much enhanced by the extra-curricular activities and community-building opportunities as it is by academic endeavour. The opportunity to participate in various groups and activities across our campuses allows students to maintain a well-rounded approach to their wellbeing and learning. It is a chance to keep up with hobbies and interests while achieving their study goals. It is also an invaluable opportunity for students to socialise and make a strong network of friends during their time at SETU. Congratulations to all awardees and thank you to our staff for their support.”

SETU student winners at the University’s annual Sports and Societies Awards 2024 at the university’s Cork Road campus, Waterford

Awards

At SETU’s campus in Carlow, the prestigious Carmel Lynch Award for overall contribution to sports, clubs, and societies was presented to Arabella Adekoya from Castledermot, Co. Kildare, who is a second-year student of the Bachelor of Arts course in Sports Management and Coaching. The award is presented annually to a student who has made an outstanding contribution to clubs and societies over the course of the year. Arabella has made a huge impact on both the Athletics Club and the African Caribbean Society, of which she served as chairperson. She is a fantastic ambassador for SETU. Arabella has demonstrated huge commitment to both societies alongside maintaining top performance in both her athletic and academic performance. 

SETU student and winner of the Carmel Lynch Award for overall contribution to sports, clubs, and societies, Arabella Adekoya, is pictured with award namesake, Carmel Lynch, former Director of Sport at SETU at the annual Sports, Clubs, and Societies awards at SETU’s Kilkenny Road campus, Carlow.

At SETU’s Waterford campus, the Sports Star of the Year Award is highly regarded and distinguished. This year, while there were some outstanding performances from SETU athletes, it was basketball player, Kate Hickey, who represented the University, her club, the Waterford Wildcats, and Ireland with distinction. She amassed some incredible personal and team accomplishments in a highly successful season. Kate is an excellent SETU representative and has exhibited a strong devotion to maintaining high athletic and academic achievements.

Mike Geoghegan, CEO of Novus, presented the Sports Star of the Year award to Kate Hickey, SETU student at the annual Sports and Societies Awards 2024 at the university’s Cork Road campus, Waterford.

For more information on SETU’s sports, clubs and societies, visit setu.ie.