Zatoka Sportu, home of the Lodz University of Technology AZS, was the host of the Opening Ceremony for this year’s European Universities Volleyball Championships, which is taking place from July 26-August 2 in Lodz, Poland.

In attendance at the prestigious ceremony were officials from the University of Technology, City of Lodz and the Lodzkie region, as well as the EUSA President, Technical Delegates and EUSA Office members.



Following the traditional march pass of the participants, Mr Ireneusz Zbicinski, the Vice Rector of the host university, reminded all the athletes that they are in the ‘Country of Volleyball’ as this sport is among the most popular in Poland, while also wishing everyone a pleasant stay in Lodz.



EUSA President Mr Adam Roczek and Technical Commission Chair Mr Jorg Forster then came to the stage together and thanked the organisers for their efforts before encouraging the athletes to compete in the spirit of fair-play. They concluded by giving Mr Zbicinski and Lodz City Council Chairman Mr Marcin Golaszewski plaques for the great effort they put in.



Mr Golaszewski was the next speaker and he welcomed everyone to the city that celebrates its 596^th  birthday this weekend and said that he hoped participants will return to Lodz in the future.

The honour to officially open the competition went to Supreme Audit Office President Mr Krzysztof Kwiatkowski. Last, but not least, Ms Sandra Sobor and Mr. Krzysztof Wojtunik read the oaths for players and referees.



A total of 14 men and 15 women’s teams will be part of this year’s event, which marks the 15^th edition since the first Championship was played in 2001.

More information about the competition can be found at volleyball2019.eusa.eu, while all schedules and results are available at results.eusa.eu.