The University of Zielona Góra has entered into a cooperation agreement with the Youth Basketball Association “Zastal” Zielona Góra (SKM “Zastal”). The principal objectives of the agreement include the implementation of practical classes and professional internships within the Physical Education degree programme, as well as the provision of educational support for professional development.
On behalf of the University, the agreement was signed by the Rector, Professor Wojciech Strzyżewski, who emphasized his continued support for young people. He noted that many of them may choose to build their futures in Zielona Góra and potentially pursue their studies at the University of Zielona Góra. Staff members from the Institute of Sport, Tourism and Nutrition, together with representatives of the University Sports Association (AZS), are actively engaged in fostering cooperation with SKM “Zastal” Zielona Góra. The Rector expressed his satisfaction with the formalization of this partnership.
Dr Bartłomiej Hes, Head of the Department of Sport and Health Promotion at the University, highlighted that collaboration with SKM “Zastal” has already been underway for some time and is yielding tangible outcomes. A particularly significant achievement is the establishment of a basketball coaching specialization within the Physical Education programme. This initiative was introduced in response to the needs expressed by the Club community. The first edition of the specialization is set to commence this academic year, marking an important milestone in the development of the programme.
The cooperation will also generate additional practical benefits. As Dr Hes explained, diagnostic testing will be organized for players to facilitate systematic sports performance monitoring. These activities will be coordinated by Dr Damian Worchacz, who serves both as President of the Club and as a member of the academic staff in the Department of Sport and Health Promotion at the University. It is anticipated that this project will continue to evolve and contribute meaningfully to the local sports community.
Dr Damian Worchacz, President of the Management Board of REWE digital Poland SKM “Zastal” Zielona Góra, underscored the importance of a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to the education and career development of young athletes. He described the agreement as a significant step in the Club’s development. Currently, SKM “Zastal” comprises twelve teams. According to Dr Worchacz, it is at the intersection of science and sport that future opportunities and aspirations emerge. The Club aims to support young people in realizing their ambitions and to encourage them to remain in Zielona Góra, where they can continue to develop their athletic and professional careers.
Priority will also be given to cooperation in the development of a modern educational offer and to joint initiatives in practical training for coaches, instructors, sports managers, referees, and teachers. As Dr Worchacz noted, the integration of diagnostic, research, and sports-related activities within the framework of collaboration with the University is expected to elevate the overall standard of training.
The signing ceremony was attended by Professor Ryszard Asienkiewicz, Director of the Institute of Sport, Tourism and Nutrition at the University of Zielona Góra; Artur Cielma, Vice-President of the Management Board and Sports Director of the Club; Robert Morkowski, General Manager of the Club; as well as academic staff from the Institute of Sport, Tourism and Nutrition.
