By
USSA (University Sport South Africa) President Jerry Laka believes hosts, Germany, have provided the ideal environment for youth athletes to quickly settle into the FISU World University Games, which gets underway on Wednesday.
Team SA arrived in groups over the weekend with great hope to improve on the total 20-medal haul in Chengdu, China.
Speaking to SABC Sport in Essen, one of the host cities, Laka gave an update as the momentum builds up.
"I must say, we travelled very well with the different groups, and all of the logistical arrangements played out smoothly.
"I must say we are settling in very well, I have attended a few training sessions already, and our athletes are ready.
"Germany have been great hosts so far," he added.
There will be a few debutants and returnees at the event, with Laka highlighting the significance and role FISU plays in shaping the future.
"This is the pinnacle of University Sport in the world, so every student athlete in 150 countries wants to participate in these games. I am immensely proud that we have students from Limpopo, the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and all over South Africa present at these games.
"This tournament also prepares our students for the bigger and more senior tournaments that lie ahead."
Laka also shared his expectations, making it clear that while medals are top of the list he wanted athletes to make lasting memories too.
"As USSA, we want to create an environment that fosters long-lasting relationships. For me, it's about the athletes enjoying the competition, that is what we are here for."
