UNSW Ben Lexcen Sports Scholar Scott Kneller has been selected to represent Australia at the Winter Olympics.

The 20-year-old engineering/commerce student will compete in Ski Cross, which combines freestyle skiing and competitive downhill racing. It is the only new sport to be included in the 2010 games.

"I have always dreamt of representing Australia at the Olympics, and I can't believe it's become reality," says Scott, who comes from Jindabyne in the NSW ski-fields.

On of 38 athletes in the Australian team, Scott's first qualifying race will be on 21 February.

Ski cross is a sport that requires plenty of courage. In a recent race in Austria, Scott crashed heavily and was knocked unconscious and broke his collarbone. Now recovered, he is raring to go at the Olympics.

"It is an amazing feeling knowing that all the hard work I have devoted to this sport has been worth it."

Scott says the support provided by the UNSW Elite Athletes Support has been critical to his success and "allowed me to reach my goals".

"The program has provided me with the help and knowledge to pursue both my sporting career and university studies. The financial contribution towards my Olympic campaign has also made all the difference."

Find out more about scholarships available through UNSW's Elite Athletes Support.

Media contact: Helen Bryson, UNSW Sport and Recreation | 9385 5725 |

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