Undoubtedly, Saloufest 2010 received its fair share of negative press on a national scale, from frivolous reports in sensationalist tabloids to the cunning underhand tactics of unidentifiable video journalists prowling round the resort to name but a few. But it’s at home in HUU where I am most surprised to hear and read hateful one-sided letters that I am indeed shocked and saddened by.
The scaremongering preaching of a few students has brought the illustrious reputation of the AU into disrepute and I for one was outraged at this.
When I came to this University I spent my first year like many other freshers; going to lectures, eating at the Lawns and then going out on the lash whenever the occasion called upon it, repeating this course of action until the end of the year. However, my second year saw me become a member of a sports team and after spending two years as part of Men’s Lacrosse I haven’t once looked back with regret. One of the most memorable pieces of advice given to me at the time was: “it’s about joining a team and throwing yourself into it wholeheartedly”. 2010 was my second Tour and I feel privileged to have been a part of it.
I’m not going to pretend that drinking doesn’t play a huge part of Tour – yes, most of the time I myself had at least a beer inside me. But when you’ve spent the previous months planning dissertations and final assignments, who isn’t going to let their hair down and enjoy their holiday?
The whole week is about camaraderie, teambuilding, strengthening and building friendships, representing your team and sports identity. My team isn’t the biggest or the best at their chosen sport, but as with every sports team in the AU, everyone feels welcome and truly a part of something. I have seen people join Men’s Lacrosse who are quiet and considered shy, and after being encouraged to get involved they have transformed into outspoken, confident and keen individuals, with real leadership and social skills who really get on with everyone. I believe Tour is a catalyst for this and I’m sure if you ask any sports team they will say that Tour brings them closer together. This brotherhood or sisterhood really shines through, with the results being seen on and off the field.
Never whilst on Tour did I see fighting or vandalism. Everywhere I went restaurant owners and the local public welcomed us with open arms. It’s just that a headline reading; “Students get praised for politeness in Salou” wouldn’t sell many newspapers. For that brief time back in April, the hotel Los Angeles was not just a bed for the night and an evening meal, it was a small community where some 500 plus students had the time of their lives. I LOVE TOUR’s slogan is “essential life experience” and that is exactly what it is. The whole experience helps you learn about what you, as an individual and your team, are capable of achieving. As for my time on tour I wouldn’t change a thing or two… honest.
However, if I can give you one small piece of advice that you won’t read in the guidebook; when it says “Professional tattoo artist” on the sign, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the guy is in the same league as Sailor Jerry.
Graham Tinkham & Funtime Frankie
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