European University Sports Association - First 10 years: 1999-2009

142 EUSA

first 10 years

1999-2009 EUROPEAN UNIVERSITY SPORTS ASSOCIATION International University Sports

The International University Sports Federation (FISU) is re-

sponsible for the organization and governance of worldwide

competitions for student-athletes between the ages of 17

and 28. It was founded in 1949 as the world governing body

of national university sports organizations and currently has

153 member associations from 5 continental regions. Being

the only international federation with more than 50 sports

on its competition program, FISU stages its events every two

years. They include two Universiades (Winter & Summer) and

over 30 World University Championships. FISU permanently

links the academic world with sports by hosting a number

of educational events – conferences, forums and seminars.

These events closely assist in promoting sport as one of the

main components of the educational system.

Universiade

The Universiade is one of the largest international multi-

sport and cultural festivals in the world which is staged every

odd-numbered year in a different city. Embracing FISU’s

motto of “Excellence in Mind and Body” it brings together

sport and academia. Much more than a traditional sporting

competition, the Universiade incorporates educational and

cultural aspects. It allows student athletes worldwide to cel-

ebrate with the host city in the true spirit of friendship and

sportsmanship.

The Summer Universiade consists of 10 compulsory sports:

Athletics - Aquatics (Diving – Swimming – Water-Polo) -

Basketball - Fencing - Football – Gymnastics (Artistic &

Rhythmic) – Judo – Table Tennis - Tennis – Volleyball and

optional sports chosen by the host country. The event brings

together some 9,000 participants from 150 countries.

FISU

International University Sports Federation