European University Championships in Combat Sports Officially Open in Zagreb

 

 PHOTO: Emanuel Pastuović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

ZAGREB, July 21, 2023 - The second edition of the European Universities Championships in combat sports commenced with a grand opening ceremony which was held in Zagreb on Thursday, July 20. The championships, taking place from July 20 to 23 gather 1,537 competitors representing 398 universities from 31 European countries.

 

PHOTO: Emanuel Pastuović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

"This event brings together the best student-athletes from all over Europe, and it is an honor to host them in Zagreb. We are not only here for the fights and medals, but this is also an opportunity to develop friendships and to showcase the values and virtues we represent on and off the field," said Davor Pavlović, President of the Organizing Committee, addressing the audience at the opening ceremony.

 

PHOTO: Matija Juranović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

Over a thousand athletes and delegation members from all corners of Europe participated in the opening ceremony, including numerous students from Ukraine, who received a special welcome. Dignitaries from the sports, social, academic, and international martial arts community also joined in the event.

 

PHOTO: Matija Juranović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

"I want to greet the representatives of Ukraine who have come to Zagreb to showcase their skills and talents. I thank the representatives in karate, judo, taekwondo, and kickboxing for their dedication, as well as all the volunteers and organizers who contributed to the success of this event," said Adam Roczek, President of the European University Sports Association.

 

PHOTO: Matija Juranović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

As part of the opening, a demonstration by the Croatian Intervention Police took place. The attendees were also addressed by Luka Juroš, representing the City of Zagreb, and Jasenka Ostojić from the University of Zagreb.

 

PHOTO: Matija Juranović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

"I am delighted to be here with you because Croatia is currently the center of university sports. Split is hosting the futsal championship, and Zagreb is hosting the combat sports championships. I wish you all to enjoy your stay in Croatia, to socialize, meet new people, and have fun in your own unique way," said Josip Pavić, State Secretary and representative of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia, who officially opened the championships.

 

PHOTO: Matija Juranović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

Over 1,500 student-athletes arrived in Zagreb on Wednesday, July 19, and the competitions in karate, judo, taekwondo, and kickboxing are taking place at four different locations in Zagreb from Friday, July 21, to Sunday, July 23: Dom odbojke (Volleyball Hall), Dom sportova (Sports Hall), Dvorana Trešnjevka (Trešnjevka Hall), and the Faculty of Kinesiology.

 

PHOTO: Matija Juranović / EUSA Combat 2023

 

Admission to the sports venues is free for all interested individuals, and the matches can also be watched through the live stream for free. A rich content offering is available on the official digital channels of the event.

 

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EUSA Combat 2023 media team