EUSA Insider:
Sven Hellmuller
Age: 23
Place of Birth: Schaffhausen, Switzerland
University: Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (SUI)
Sport: Orienteering Published 8 October 2019
How and why did you get involved in Orienteering?
My parents were already orienteers before I was born, so I grew up with it. We spent our holidays at some nice places for competition and I realised that orienteering is one of the best sports if you enjoy exploring the nature and landscapes.
What do you study, and how do you balance your study, training and competition?
I’m studying Mechanical Engineering. In the first year, I found a deal with the university, that I could study and still have enough time for training. In the following years we didn’t have so many mandatory subjects which enabled me to schedule my study and trainings in a better way. But still, the most important thing is to plan your time and be disciplined.
Tell us about your experiences at the European Universities Championships 2019. Was it your first time at a EUSA event, and what did you enjoy the most?
Because it was the first European University Orienteering Championships this year, it was also my first time competing at an EUSA event. I’ve been at student world champs in orienteering before, but there we represent more the country than our universities. Going to this competition with your mates from the same university to challenge the other guys and find out which Institute has the best orienteers is for sure one of the most enjoyable things you can do. But also discussing with guys from another universities who study is also really interesting.
Why do you think taking part in university sport is important?
When work or study takes up the most time of the day, it is important to move your body and get some energy for more work. Training together with friends is always fun and gives a good feeling. For me personally, after some hours of studying I can’t sit still anymore and have to move my legs, so it’s really important for myself.
“Take the chance and compete at EUSA events and be proud to represent your university!”
Next year the European Universities Games are taking place in Belgrade, Serbia. Are you hoping to be there, and if so, what do you hope to achieve?
Because next year all the university competitions will take place in the same city, I really hope to be able take part and enjoy this amazing spirit and mood. If I’ll take part, I hope that my university can show again that we are the best orienteers and hope for me that I can fight for the medals again.
What is your favourite university sport moment?
I always enjoy challenging my friends and the other guys. Fighting for the win or discussing after the race with some new friends is always nice!
What is your message to European student-athletes like yourself?
Take the chance and compete at EUSA events and be proud to represent your university! It will for sure be fun, no matter where you go or who’s joining you!
EUSA would like to congratulate Sven for his success at the 2019 European Universities Championships, and we hope to see him next year at the European Universities Games 2020 in Belgrade, Serbia!