Griffith University And Surfing Australia Form Research And Innovation Partnership

Surfing Australia has partnered with Griffith University to assist with research and innovation in the lead up to the introduction of surfing at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020.

The partnership is set to benefit both Griffith University and surfing’s national network of coaches, athletes, performance support providers and industry partners alike, with Surfing Australia to provide the opportunity for Griffith students to gain industry placements and internships within Surfing Australia across a range of areas.

Kim Crane, Surfing Australia’s National High-Performance Director, said: “One of our National High-Performance Program objectives is to proactively seek new knowledge by capturing, developing, interpreting, sharing, applying and retaining facts, information and skills to achieve a range of performance outcomes right across our pathway.”

“To stay ahead on an international level, any High-Performance sport requires investment and expertise when considering research and innovation partnerships, and we are thrilled that Griffith University has committed to come on an exciting journey with surfing.

“Relationships are everything in our sport, and Griffith University is a partner who not only shares our vision and values but is stoked to start to work and engage with our people on a range of projects that will all be linked to performance,” Crane said. 

Surfing Australia will also produce digital content on behalf of Griffith, which will be published across Surfing Australia’s digital and broadcast platforms – including mySURF.tv and on the Nine Network.

Duncan Free, Director, Griffith Sports College, said the university was delighted to partner with Surfing Australia.

“Griffith’s sporting expertise and knowledge using cutting edge technology and facilities will certainly be of value to Surfing Australia contributing to high performance, sports research and innovation,” he said.

Griffith’s research excellence in areas like wave modelling, sports engineering and wearable technologies can potentially contribute to further knowledge and progress in high-performance surfing.

“With surfing being introduced to the Olympic agenda in Tokyo 2020, this is a very timely opportunity for us as a university and our students.

“Exciting placements will be available for our students to work and gain experience alongside some of the leaders in the field.

“This is a ‘whole of University’ partnership whereby staff and students from multiple schools and departments will be able to collaborate with Surfing Australia and assist in delivering not only high-performance outcomes but also engage with several other departments within Surfing Australia at an exciting and important time for one of the country’s leading sporting bodies.”