Spotlight on our University Orienteering Clubs: Stirling University Orienteering Club (STUOC)
19 September 2024
We spoke to Stirling University Orienteering Club (STUOC) club member Holly Stodgell, who shared more about why she got involved in the club, the social benefits of joining a university orienteering club, and the key skills she has gained during her time as a Committee member.
What made you want to start/become involved with your university orienteering club?
I was keen to orienteer at university because I heard such great stories from my parents about their experiences as a part of Cardiff Uni Orienteering Club in the 90s. There are some existing orienteers at Stirling as well as new faces. Everyone has top vibes, and we have great fun as a group.
Typically, how often do you meet as a group? How do you factor things in like travel?
The club meets a few times every week. We have an organised training session every week and on top of that we go for social runs, chill dinners at peoples’ flats, and themed pub nights out. We aim to go to events as often as possible. For training and events, we have named drivers in the club who are happy to take a car full along, so transport is easy for everyone.
What advice would you give to freshers/newcomers to the sport?
Get stuck in! Orienteering is a fantastic way to meet other adventurous and outdoorsy people at uni. It’s also a great way to keep fit and learn new skills in a supportive and friendly environment. You get to explore lots of new places as well as challenging yourself.
Can you share any of your highlights as a club over the past year?
In the past few years, we have loved major events like the JK and BUCS where all clubs get together. Everyone is so supportive, and it feels like an amazing orienteering community. We have also enjoyed our come dine with me socials which put a fun spin on club dinners. STUOC and FVO awards nights are also highlights of the year!
What do you value most about being a member of your club?
I value the support of my teammates. The club always stays consistent even if uni or personal lives gets tough.
Are there any key skills you have gained in being a committee member and a volunteer for the club?
Volunteering for STUOC means you have to be organised – something that has actually benefited my studies as well! Committee has learned about leadership, communications, charity, and money handling too!
The British University Orienteering Championships take place each year. Can you tell us more about your experience from this year’s event and why they are a great opportunity for university clubs across the country to come together to compete?
Unfortunately, we couldn’t get a team along to BUCS this year since it was during exams and a long way to travel! However, BUCS 2023 was a fantastic experience! The orienteering was high quality and inclusive of all abilities. There was great camaraderie between the clubs and, of course, there was a brilliant party too! BUCS is such a brilliant way to catch up with friends from other universities and a great way for newcomers to immerse themselves into the orienteering world.
What are your aims as a club in the upcoming year?
This year we hope to have a blast! We don’t put pressure on our performances, so we always have great fun at training and at events. We’d love to get teams along to BUCS and the JK again! We’re also hosting the Scottish Student Championships this year which will be fantastic!
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