UTSNZ Unveils Exciting Events Calendar for 2024, Showcasing Diversity and Inclusivity
University and Tertiary Sport New Zealand (UTSNZ) is excited to reveal its action-packed events calendar for 2024, promising an array of opportunities for tertiary students nationwide. The calendar is divided into three main categories: the National Tertiary Championship Series, the Challenge Series, and the International Events Programme featuring the prestigious FISU World University Championships (WUC).
National Tertiary Championship Series
The National Tertiary Championship Series forms the backbone of UTSNZ's calendar, providing a platform for tertiary athletes to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level within New Zealand – a pinnacle event for many tertiary athletes across New Zealand.
The series again features the eight sports that have become a firm fixture in recent years beginning with Rowing, Badminton, 3x3 Basketball and Volleyball which will bring semester one to a close. The second half of the series kicks off with Futsal, followed by the final stretch of Ultimate, Basketball and Netball in the later parts of September.
After winning last year’s National Tertiary Championship Series quite convincingly, the University of Canterbury will be striving to defend and retain the coveted tertiary shield. With a clean slate of points heading into this year’s series, the rest of the field will fancy their chances at lifting the shield in September.
Tertiary Challenge Series
Encompassing both performance and participation level events, the Challenge Series is a suite of online and physical events for current tertiary students from all institutions. Events aim to cater for participants of all abilities, from those who are new to the sport right through to
those competing at the elite level.
The Tertiary Challenge Series not only provides a platform for established sports but also opens doors for emerging disciplines, offering them the opportunity to host tertiary-level competitions, both in-person and virtually.
This year the Challenge Series kicked off with Beach Volleyball and will continue with events scheduled though until September in a variety of sports. From beach volleyball to powerlifting to cheerleading, this series creates an inclusive environment, encouraging participation and fostering a love for sport among tertiary students.
International Events Programme featuring FISU WUCs
For those with aspirations beyond national borders, there are the FISU World University Championships (WUC). FISU WUC’s are held every two years between each World University Games and bring together top tertiary athletes from around the world to compete. They are single sport events providing a unique opportunity for New Zealand's brightest talents to represent their country on the international stage, fostering cultural exchange and global camaraderie.
In 2024, UTSNZ is currently working with the following National Sporting Organisations to co-ordinate New Zealand representation; Volleyball NZ (Beach Volleyball), Rowing NZ, New Zealand Football (Futsal), NZ Powerlifting, Orienteering NZ and Sport Climbing NZ.
Beyond the Field of Play
In addition to the on-field action, off-court opportunities exist through UTSNZ’s Workforce Development Programme (UTSNZ WDP). This programme offers a holistic array of benefits, extending beyond the field of play to provide students with practical experiences aligning with their academic goals.
Participation in the UTSNZ WDP offers a host of benefits, including the development of essential skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and time management. Moreover, it serves as a gateway for students to explore potential career paths within the sports industry.
The programme is practical, offering valuable hands-on experience in a real-world setting. This application of academic knowledge enriches understanding and competence in chosen fields of interest while facilitating networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Get Involved!
As UTSNZ opens the doors to an exciting year of sport and development opportunities, tertiary students are encouraged to embrace the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and personal growth.
For more information and to get involved, follow the links below.
Posted: Mon 12 Feb 2024
