In this month’s What’s Up Student Column, we are officially re-launching the next installment of the EUSA Insider Series, profiling athletes who are busy with their preparations for this summer’s European Universities Games in Belgrade, Serbia.

We begin with Beach Volleyball player Kamil Radzikowski from the Poznan University of Life Science, who is looking forward to "meeting many awesome people in Belgrade".

How and why did you get involved in beach volleyball?
It was about 15 years ago. When I was young boy, volleyball was the main discipline in my school. My home town is also known for a high level of volleyaball. We had extra classes and when we finished our regular indoor volleyball season, every summer I tried to practise beach volleyball.

I started my journey with volleyball when I was in primary school. My PE teacher was highly focused on volleyball and he organised extra classes, which I attended. Furthermore, my hometown team represented the highest level of men's volleyball in Poland. I started to enjoy it and still do today!

What do you study, and how do you balance your study, training and competition?
At the same time, I studied a Master's degree in Economics and Bachelor's in Renewable Energy. During my studies, I earned some money playing in the second league of volleyball. Having my passion as a part-time job was a nice resolution. But there was no special treatment at the University. Currently, I work in the solar energy industry but still, I train regularly twice a week. Beach volleyball keeps me fit and in good health and it also allows me to relax after work. 



Tell us about your experiences at previous EUSA events, or if EUG2020 is your first EUSA competition?  
It will be my 4th event organised by EUSA. One was an indoor event and three were beach volleyball competitions, which were all well organised. Besides the game, I discovered many beautiful places and wonderful people. For me, this is the greatest reward for hours spent in training.

"Use the opportunities the university gives you, develop yourself, travel and meet awesome people. Come to Belgrade this year!"

What are you looking forward to most in Belgrade, and what are your aspirations?
We got fourth place in the previous EUSA tournament, which was a bittersweet experience. It was emotionally exhausting because we were so close to getting a medal, but we then started to analyse and think we hadn’t tried hard enough becasue we were so close. So this year we want to get a medal. We know that our opponents are highly skilled, but it is our last performance with EUSA.

Why do you think taking part in university sport is important?
I think sport is an important part of academic life.  You can meet new people, you learn discipline and cooperation. If you are good, many interesting opportunities appear. You can travel as a representative of the University and there are many scholarships for sportsmen and women. In this case, I see only positive sides.



What is your most memorable university sport moment?
Of course, this is the fourth place at the EUSA Championships in Koper. I also had a funny situation associated with EUSA. It was about 5 years ago: we went to the indoor volleyball championship and upon arriving, I noticed that I hadn't taken my gaming shoes. Fortunately, the championship was played in Poland and on the match day my friend sent me my boots by train!

What is your message to other European students?
I believe hard work will pay off sooner or later so work hard and never give up and most important - enjoy what you are doing! Use the opportunities the university gives you, develop yourself, travel and meet awesome people. Come to Belgrade this year!

Are you a student with an opinion? We are looking for new contributors for our student column every month. Feel free to contact stc@eusa.eu to offer a piece or propose a topic.