FISU says, “Since its founding in 1949, the International University Sports Federation (FISU) is the key driver to expand the role and reach of university sport around the world. FISU believes that sports values and sports practice work in perfect synchronicity within one’s university studies.
FISU offers opportunity and inspiration to students around the world to play sport. The health, wellbeing and experiences that students gain from sport help them become active members in our global society.” Nothing could be more aligned with Judos own specific mission.
In Essen, Germany, the judo draw ran smoothly with many familiar faces from the IJF team on site. IJF Secretary General Dr Lisa Allan gave the opening welcome, thanking the event organisers and the officials in attendance, namely Mr Patrik Drid, Technical Committee Chair, Mr Teodor Pop, IJF Technical Delegate, Mr Yannick Van Der Kolk, the Judo Sport Manager, and Dr Jose Angel Garza of the FISU medical committee.
“Dear judo family, We are deeply honoured to be here with you in this beautiful city of Essen for the FISU World Student Games. On behalf of the president of the International Judo Federation, Mr Marius Vizer, and the entire IJF family, we extend our warmest welcome to you all.
As we proudly organise this prestigious event, we express our sincere gratitude to FISU for their collaborative partnership and excellence in delivering at the highest standard. This event brings together the global judo family to celebrate the spirit of our sport, as the world's finest students compete for the next four days in the Messe Essen Hall 4.
Education is fundamental to both personal growth and sporting success. These games highlight the unique connection between learning and athletic excellence, reflecting the shared values of judo and academia.
A heartfelt thank you to you, our national federations, for your unwavering support. Together, let us enjoy the FISU World Student Games, a sharing of the values that define judo, and the pursuit of excellence on the world stage.”
It is exciting to see many judoka competing in Germany this week, many of whom will be striving for Olympic success in the coming years while also forging forward with their academic achievements. All participants have much to be proud of and we are impressed by their current work and their future successes.