Game on in Vukovar: European Universities Water Polo Championship kicks off

The Opening Ceremony of the European Universities Water Polo Championship 2025 took place on 7 July in Vukovar, at the symbolic Vukovar Water Tower – one of Croatia’s most iconic landmarks. The Ceremony was attended by more than 200 athletes, officials, citizens, and notable guests.

On behalf of the Organising Committee, the participants were welcomed by Mr Željko Sudarić, Dean of the University of Applied Sciences “Lavoslav Ružička” in Vukovar and president of the Organising Committee.



Also addressing the audience were Mr Filip Sušac, Deputy Mayor of Vukovar; Mr David Vlajčić, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture, representing the Government of the Republic of Croatia; Mr Nikola Mažar, Member of Parliament representing the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament; and Mr Tomislav Paškvalin, representative of the President of the Republic, who opened the championship.

Speaking for the European University Sports Association, a warm welcome was delivered by Mr Milan Žvan, EUSA Executive Committee member and SCAC Chair, as well as Haris Pavletić, first Vice-President of EUSA, and the President of the Croatian Academic Sports Federation, one of the organizers.

The Championship takes place from 7 to 13 July 2025, with matches played at the Vukovar City Swimming Pool. It features seven university teams from France, Hungary, Türkiye, and Croatia. The parade of teams was a highlight of the evening, with athletes marching in proudly behind their national and university flags. Each delegation entered the amphitheatre accompanied by carefully selected national music, while the crowd applauded and cheered.

The cultural programme included performances by a local folk ensemble and tamburica players and an emotional rendition of the Croatian national anthem performed by Ivona Krainović, a young artist from Vukovar. The vibrant energy of DJ Andy Boy and Vukovar’s majorettes added to the festive atmosphere.



A special part of the ceremony was the reading of the oaths. On behalf of all athletes, the oath was read by Andras Turan (Budapest University of Technology and Economics), while Lea Saftić, the only female referee, delivered the oath on behalf of all referees. Their words served as a reminder of the importance of respect for the rules, fair play, and the spirit of unity that university sport represents.

More information about the event and the competition schedule can be found at eusa.eu and unisport.hr

The event is organised by the University of Applied Sciences “Lavoslav Ružička” in Vukovar and the Croatian Academic Sports Federation (HASS), with the support of EUSA, the City of Vukovar, Vukovar-Srijem County, and numerous volunteers and partners.