News
From the field to the classroom Yvonne’s on track
First year Caboolture nursing student Yvonne Wills has one extra thing on her mind than most other students: she is an elite athlete.
Yvonne is a discus thrower, and has competed in state and national events including the Queensland Athletics State titles and the Australian University Games.
Yvonne came relatively late to discus, having started training just two years ago.
"I've always done athletics. Mum and Dad got me involved in little athletics when I was a kid," Yvonne said.
However, it wasn't until a family friend suggested she try discus, she realised she had a natural aptitude for the sport.
"I love it," she said.
"It's hard to describe if you've never thrown a discus, but the feeling you get when the discus comes through your hand perfectly - it's amazing."
It seemed she was always destined to be a discus thrower.
"I didn't pay much attention at the time, but in grade five I did come first for discus throwing. Looking back, I think it was meant to be."
Since starting at Caboolture, Yvonne said she has settled in well to her nursing studies.
"Nursing's going great. I've completed my first prac experience in the rehabilitation ward at Redcliffe Hospital," she said.
Yvonne's goal is to specialise in the operating theatre ward after she finishes her nursing degree.
Until then, she's extremely self-disciplined balancing her studies, prac, athletics training and part-time work.
"I have to be a little more organised, for example finishing assignments a couple of weeks before they're due so I can attend competitions."
As for her sporting goals, Yvonne said she's taking it one step at a time.
"It would be incredible to have the opportunity to compete at the Olympics or Commonwealth Games," she said.
"The 2018 Commonwealth Games are at the Gold Coast and I'd love to be there."
