Hello, my name is Amanda Edwards and I am a 22 year-old female currently participating the sport of artistic gymnastics at the Senior International level, and have recently been selected onto the Australian team for the University Games. To find out more about my journey over the years, please read on.

I started recreational gymnastics at the age of 10 which led me to my first season of Gymnastics Western Australia competitions in 2012. I moved up through the National level gymnastics stream from level 4 – 10 before I switched over to the International level stream in 2020. In these years, I have been awarded State Champion for Western Australia 8 times. In 2019, I was awarded National Champion at the Australian Gymnastics Championships. More recently, having switched into the International stream, I have had to show great dedication to the development of my skills, consistency, and artistry, to prove my potential in the highest level of gymnastics. 

I dedicate myself to almost 20 hours a week in the gym, whilst studying a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) degree at Edith Cowan University to become a Registered Nurse. My commitment to both athletic and academic excellence has brought me to where I am today, with my hard work definitely paying off. 

Based on my performance at local Western Australia gymnastics qualifications, video verification events and the recent Australian Gymnastics Championships, I have been selected to represent Australia at the World University Games being held in Chengdu, China. This is a competition for university students who are currently studying or have completed their degree in the past two years, who are also under 26 years of age. This is a world class event, where I will be travelling with my coach and other athletes that are involved in various sports. This is a massive dream come true for me and will look to be my final gymnastics competition, closing off my career. 

The estimated cost for participation in this event given to me by the Australian University Sport governing body is $6000, which includes flights between Melbourne and Chengdu, accommodation and food in the athlete village, dress uniform, technical and competition fees, an accreditation fee, ground transport and medical support for the duration of the event. On top of this I will need to book flights between Perth and Melbourne to ensure I can fly on the designated charter planes.

Having travelled to Melbourne for a gymnastics camp in January, and the Australian Gymnastics Championships in May, I would be grateful for any donations that you could provide, that will assist me in fulfilling my dream of representing Australia at the Senior International Level.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story! 😊