A special presentation this Friday (27 February) on how athletes gain and develop sporting skills, will be the first in a series of free, monthly public talks by USC health, sport and fitness experts.

Lecturer in Motor Control and Motor Learning Dr Adam Gordon will present a talk, called ‘Skill acquisition: Tips to take home’, from 5.30-6pm at the USC Sports Stadium.

“I will provide the audience with an understanding of the basic science behind skill acquisition in sport, and how the concepts from skill acquisition can be used to maximise learning,” said Dr Gordon.

“My presentation will cover topics such as the characteristics of expert sports performers, how to design practice tasks, and how to use video to enhance decision-making.”

Anyone with an interest in sport and fitness is encouraged to attend. Barbecue food will be available for purchase on the night.

Future presentations in the series include: Sports medicine – the first vital minutes (27 March); Injury prevention for athletes (24 April); Leadership and teamwork – keys to success (29 March); Don’t forget recovery! (12 June); and Move well, play well – improve your game with biomechanics (31 July).

All of the lively, interactive 30-minute talks will be from 5.30-6pm at the USC Sports Stadium located in the USC Sports Precinct off Sippy Downs Drive.

These talks are presented by USC’s Sport and Exercise Science discipline, the Centre for Support and Advancement of Learning and Teaching and the USC Basketball Club.

For more information or to register your attendance call Tania Stevenson on 5459 4823 or email tstevens@usc.edu.au.

— Jane Cameron