International sports integration
Sport, emotions and international friendship, this is how the futsal tournament held on 20 December at the Poznań University of Life Sciences can be briefly described. The event, organized by the Association of International Students PULS-ISA, was an excellent example of how sport activities can bring people together across borders, languages and cultures.
The tournament attracted a large group of students, both from Poland and abroad, as well as university alumni. It was not only an opportunity for sports competition, but above all for meeting one another, integration and sharing the genuine emotions that accompany playing together.
The participants were divided into four teams: Bioballers, Scholars United, Green Growers FC and Agri Athletes. The teams competed in a round-robin format, with each match lasting 10 minutes. This formula ensured equal opportunities for all teams, dynamic gameplay and a high level of sporting excitement throughout the tournament. After a series of intense matches, Green Growers FC claimed first place, while Scholars United secured second place, demonstrating strong sportsmanship and excellent technical skills.
Individual achievements were also recognized during the event. The title of Best Player of the Tournament and a gold medal were awarded to David James Iyke, a graduate of the Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology. He was recognized for his outstanding form, consistency and clear, positive impact on his team’s performance.
The proper course of the competition was overseen by Rafał Gozdecki from the UPP Centre for Physical Culture. His professionalism and active involvement as the chief referee ensured fair play, discipline and the smooth organization of all matches.
The tournament was also honored by the presence of representatives of the university authorities and administration: prof. dr hab. Jean Diatta, leader of PULS-ISA; prof. UPP dr hab. Rafał Stasik, vice-Dean of the Faculty of Environmental and Mechanical Engineering; and Milena Szafran from the International Relations Office.
The international futsal tournament proved that sport at UPP is not only about competition, but also an effective tool for integration, building relationships, which strengthening the academic community.
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PULS-ISA would like to express its sincere thanks to: prof. dr hab. Karolina Pawlak, vice-Rector for International Cooperation, for organizational support; Tope Julius Ojo, PULS-ISA coordinator for Sport and Recreation, for the professional coordination of the futsal tournament; and all the dedicated futsal players and participants of the event.
