FISU Vice-President backs future championships in Africa

While enjoying the FISU World University Championships Rugby Sevens action in Namibia, FISU Vice-President Marian Dymalski says he was happy with what he has seen so far, and hopes to see more African countries playing host to similar events in future.

The 8^th edition if the FISU Rugby Sevens championships is currently taking place in the coastal town of Swakopmund, making Namibia the first African country to host such a tournament, much to the delight of the FISU Vice-President.

“So far, Africa hasn’t hosted a lot of championships,” he acknowledged. “We are very interested in making sure all continents actively organise university championships. Most of our championships have been held in Europe and Asia, so it’s good now that a new country has joined the family of organisers, and I hope in future that more countries from Africa will apply to organise championships. And maybe even the Universiade one day – we’ve spoken about South Africa possibly organising the Summer Universiade, as it is a big country with a lot of experience in organising events, such as the soccer World Cup a few years ago.”

A number of forums and events have taken place in the likes of South Africa, Uganda and Rwanda in the past, yet very few sporting championships, but Dymalski hopes the current rugby event will inspire other African countries to take steps in acting as hosts in future.

“Namibia is now the organiser of a championship – this is a good promotion, for both the students and the country, and I hope neighbouring countries start thinking, “If they can organise an event, why can’t we?’” he said. “I think this is good to show other African countries that this is possible … the Universiade may be a bit big, but university championships can be hosted by a lot of countries in Africa. Of course the organising committee would need support from government and sponsors and takes a lot of work, but it’s good promotion for the city, the country and the universities.”

With 16 countries from four different continents present in Namibia, Dymalski – who is also the chairman of FISU championships – feels that in itself has added to the success of the current tournament. As first-time hosts, the local organising committee naturally leaned on experienced FISU officials for guidance, with Dymalski showing his gratitude to FISU General Director Paulo de Ferreira and his team for the work they have done in ensuring a successful tournament in Swakopmund.

“I think it’s very good that Paulo came here because he is very professional and has huge experience in organising FISU events, and I think the local people here can learn a lot from him,” he said. “And he always very willingly gives information and help all the time. But all staff working at the championships are very helpful and professional.”

The teething problems as debutant hosts, Dymalski says, are over-ridden but the core reason and focal point of such championships: the students themselves, who are visibly enjoying being in Namibia for the first time.

“I am happy because it’s the first time here,” he said. “It’s impossible to avoid any mistakes as hosts – that’s normal – but what’s important for me is that a lot of students are involved in this event and I am very happy that they can participate in the organising of such an event and can meet with students from other continents. That for me is very important.”