EUSA Insider:
Vanda Toth
Age: 21
Place of Birth/Nationality: Hungary/Hungarian
University: University of Miskolc
Sport: Karate, Kata
Published 30 March 2024
1. How did you get involved in karate?
My journey into the world of combat sports began at the tender age of 8, all thanks to the wise suggestion of my mother. It was she who recognized the value of discipline, focus, and physical activity that karate could offer a young mind like mine. Trusting in her intuition, I embarked on this new adventure, eager to explore the ancient art of self-defense and personal development.
Karate became more than just a sport to me; it became a way of life. Through countless hours of training, I honed not only my physical abilities but also my mental fortitude. The dojo became my sanctuary, a place where I could push my limits, confront my fears, and strive for continuous self-improvement. Before that, I attended ballroom dancing for 2 years.
Now, years later, as I reflect on my journey, I realize that sports have always been an integral part of my life. From the graceful movements of ballroom dancing to the disciplined practice of karate, each experience has shaped me into the person I am today.
2. Did you already take part in EUSA events before or is it your first time?
In 2022, my journey into university-level sports competition began with my debut at an EUSA event. Competing in women's artistic gymnastics, I poured my heart and soul into every routine, striving to showcase the culmination of years of dedication and training. To my delight and surprise, I emerged from the competition with a respectable 7th place finish.
The following year, my involvement with EUSA deepened as I volunteered at the prestigious Europian Universities Badminton and Water Polo Championships. Serving as a volunteer was a humbling experience, allowing me to be a part of such a large-scale sporting event while contributing to its success in my own small way.
Just a week later, I found myself back in the arena, this time as a competitor in the Europian Universities Combat Championship, ready to test my skills in karate once again. As the tournament unfolded, I fought my way through each round with unwavering focus and determination, until finally, I found myself standing on the podium, the proud recipient of the silver medal.
3. Otherwise did you compete in other national and international sports events? Which ones?
Since joining the Hungarian national karate team at the age of 14, my journey in competitive martial arts has been nothing short of transformative. Representing my country on the international stage has been both an honor and a privilege. Competing in European Championships and World Championships, each tournament serving as a platform to test my skills and measure my progress against the world's best. With each competition, I gained invaluable experience, learning from my successes and failures.
The year 2021 marked a significant milestone in my karate career as I switched to the adult national women's team. This new chapter brought with it a heightened level of competition and responsibility, as I now compite with athletes on the global stage. The doubling of European and World Championships on my schedule was a testament to the hard work and dedication that had brought me to this point. As I continue to pursue excellence in the world of karate, I am grateful for the continous support of my teammates and coaches.
4.What are you looking forward to experiencing or achieving at the European Universities Games 2024?
I am deeply motivated to push my limits and showcase my best performance, driven by the pride of representing both myself and my city, Miskolc. The opportunity to host the competition fills me with a sense of responsibility and determination to excel, not only for personal achievement but also to contribute to the success of the event itself. I will do everything in my power to successfully conclude the Eurpoian University Games.
5.How do you think competing in sports events like EUG 2024 can help your development as an athlete in karate?
The EUG serves as a platform where university students who are also active athletes can come together to showcase their talents and abilities. It offers a unique opportunity for these individuals to compete against their peers from around the world, fostering an environment of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.
Participating in the EUG opens doors to international-level competition, allowing athletes to gain valuable experience on a global stage. It provides a chance to measure one's skills and performance against top athletes from various countries, offering valuable insights and opportunities for growth. The event serves as a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, youth, inspiration for the participants to gain more both on and off the field of play.
6.Why would you recommend participation in the Games to other student athletes?
Participating in the European Universities Games (EUG) offers students an unique opportunity not only to showcase their athletic abilities but also to gain meaningful connections and enhance their teamwork skills. As students from various universities come together to compete in a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship, bonds of friendship are forged that can last a lifetime.
In the individual competitions, athletes have the chance to push their own limits and strive for personal excellence. However, it is in the team events where the true spirit of unity and collaboration shines. Representing their university as part of a team creates a sense of pride and belonging, fostering a supportive environment where teammates work together towards a common goal.
The excitement of cheering together for our university adds an extra layer of intensity to the competitions. Whether it's the thrill of watching a teammate excel in their event or the collective jubilation of celebrating a victory, the shared experiences at the EUG strengthen the bonds within the university community.
7. What does it mean for the biggest European Universities sports event to be hosted in your city/country?
It fills me with joy and pride to have the opportunity to compete in my hometown and proudly represent the University of Miskolc on such a grand stage. This experience promises to be unforgettable, and the anticipation is already building within me. From training sessions to imagining the roar of the crowd, every moment leading up to the event is filled with excitement and anticipation. I am eager to showcase my skills and dedication, not only for myself but also for my university and the community that has supported me throughout my journey. This will undoubtedly be a defining moment in my athletic career, and I am ready to give my all and make it a memory to cherish for a lifetime.
8. What are you most excited for when it comes to your participation in the European Universities Games 2024?
This competition holds a special place among the most prestigious events of the year, and the prospect of competing in front of a hometown crowd adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation. The support and encouragement of local fans can be an incredible source of motivation, driving athletes to push themselves to new heights and deliver their best performances. For me, the opportunity to showcase my skills and represent my city in such a significant event is both an honor and a thrilling challenge. I am determined to seize this opportunity and make my hometown proud, leaving a lasting impression on both the audience and myself.
9. What would be your final message to other student athletes like you?
Participating in the University Games is an experience like no other. It's not just about the competition; it's about the journey, the camaraderie, and the sense of belonging to something greater than oneself. Throughout the games, you'll forge friendships, create memories, and grow both personally and athletically. And when you achieve success, whether it's a personal best or a team victory, there's nothing quite like celebrating with your fellow athletes, coaches, and supporters. So, if you have the opportunity, don't hesitate to join in. The European Universities Games await, ready to offer you an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement, challenges, and the thrill of competition.
Overall, participation in the EUG is not just about winning medals, but about the journey of personal growth, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories that will stay with students long after the games have ended.