EUSA Insider:
Elisabeth Pavel
Age: 28
Place of Birth: Sibiu, Romania
University: Univesity of Pitesti (ROU)
Sport: 3x3 Basketball
How and why did you get involved in basketball?
I started playing basketball when I was nine years old after my father told me to try it out to see if I liked it. I instantly fell in love with the game and since then it's been one of the biggest parts of my life.
What do you study, and how do you balance your study, training and competition?
I study Physical Education and Sports. I mostly study when I don’t have competitions or when I get days off during the week from practice.
Tell us about your experiences at the European Universities Games 2018. Was it your first time at a EUSA event, and what did you enjoy the most?
The 2018 EUSA event wasn't my first. I played in the 5x5 event in Zagreb in 2017 where we won the silver medal and in the Rijeka 3x3 event where unfortunately we didn't have a great result, but nonetheless in both years I had a lot of fun being there and meeting new people. It's was a very fun experience while representing my country and school as well. Last year in Portugal is what I enjoyed the most, winning the gold medal in the 3x3 competition. It was such a great atmosphere and the people there came to watch our games and support us.
Why do you think taking part in university sport is important?
I think it's a great honour for student athletes to be able to represent their school and county in an international competition, plus you get to travel and experience so many new things.
“It was such a great atmosphere and the people there came to watch our games and support us.”
In 2019 the European Universities 3x3 Basketball Championships will take place in Porto, Portugal. Do you hope to be there, and if so, how have your preparations been, and what do you hope to achieve?
For now I can say yes, I’ll be there, and our goal will be to defend last year's title! My preparations are not yet specialised for 3x3 because I’m still in busy with my 5x5 basketball season.
What is your favourite university sport moment?
My favourite university sport moment I think, like everyone else, is winning and fighting for a spot on the podium. Meeting new people and having fun all at the same time is great too!
“I think it's a great honour for student athletes to be able to represent their school and county in an international competition.”
What is your message to European student-athletes like yourself?
My message to all student-athletes is to always be proud to play for their school and if they have the chance to participate in the EUSA games, to do it because it will be an experience they will never forget!
EUSA would like to congratulate Elisabeth and her team for their success last year and we hope to see her very soon, at European Universities Championships 2019!