Taekwondo Scholar Simone preps for European University Games

We spoke to Simone ahead of her last competition where she will be representing Northumbria.

Representing Northumbria University, Sport Scholar, Simone Abley is set to defend her international title at the 2024 European University Games (EUG) in Hungary at Taekwondo - 67kg.

Abley enters the tournament with grand expectations, following her triumphant performance in the 2023 games. Her spirits are calm and positive with less than a week before the competition begins, Simone said: “I feel good, I have been working hard on the lead up. When I compete, I don’t think there will ever come a day I’m not nervous beforehand. I’m looking forward to the challenge as last year my category was so hard but I’m ready for it.”  

The 2024 EUG edition represents one of the biggest sporting events of Simone’s career, as the competition marks the end of her student career for Northumbria. She has had a successful few years whilst studying at Northumbria where she has secured numerous medals across BUCS  and international competitions. As of the 2023/24 BUCS season, Abley is currently undefeated.  

Talking of her experience competing in BUCS Competitions, Simone said: “They have definitely helped as in the BUCS competitions I got to try out new things and see what could work. It feels good knowing that I was the top qualifier for the EUG24 for the -67kg category.”

Both motivated and nostalgic, she adds that: “I’m looking forward to competing for Northumbria for the last time, it definitely adds extra motivation as I want to go out with a bang.”   

We are all wishing best of luck to Simone, and hopefully she brings gold home once again!