A longstanding rivalry between two of Townsville’s most respected organisations is set to flare up again this month.
The annual “Battle of the Icons” Uni vs Army Games promises plenty of action as teams gear up for clashes in rugby union, basketball, netball, soccer and mixed touch football on October 15.
James Cook University Student Association Sport and Recreation manager Jason Conn said the teams couldn’t wait to get stuck in after a hiatus in 2020 due to COVID-19.
“Everyone is looking forward to seeing this event come back with a bang,” he said.
“It’s a mixture of excitement and intensity for both the students and the Army contingent. It’s a busy day for us and we see so many supporters come down to watch the different games.”
Teams competing in basketball, netball, soccer and touch football will vie for a Battle of the Icons Cup, while the traditional Chancellor’s Cup and Commander’s Cup will be held for the men’s and women’s rugby games respectively.
“In the past, the event had usually been over a three-day period at several venues but for the last few times we’ve held it, we’ve done it all on the one day. This makes for a much better atmosphere and better sense of community because you can see games back-to-back,” Mr Conn said.
“There’s no doubt a lot of people look forward to this event on the calendar each year.”
Both sides will have a point to prove next Friday with the last clashes in 2019 seeing JCU take out men’s basketball, women’s netball and mixed touch football while the Army completed a clean sweep of soccer and rugby.
JCU Chancellor Bill Tweddell said the Games are a wonderful example of athleticism and competitiveness between JCU and the Army.
“The Games have been a longstanding tradition between our two fine organisations, becoming a much-loved spectacle for the people of Townsville,” he said.
“James Cook University is proud of its strong relationship with the Army as we both continue to serve the community in different ways.
“I wish all teams the very best of luck in the Games and look forward to seeing some close-fought clashes.”
Commander of the 3rd Brigade, Brigadier Kahlil Fegan, said he is looking forward to watching the iconic organisations go head-to-head on the field.
“We love a bit of friendly competition and I know our soldiers are really keen to get out on to the fields to show the university teams what they are made of,” Brigadier Fegan said.
“It really is a fantastic opportunity for us to get involved in the community and share in the strong local sporting culture and we hope the community will come out to support the teams on the day.
“May the best teams win!”
