University Sport Federations across Oceania celebrated International Day of University Sport (IDUS) on 20 September. Sporting competitions, fun games and activities provided the opportunity for students and universities to recognise this UNESCO global day. Celebrations were held in Australia, Cook Islands, Fiji. Marshall Islands, New Zealand, Northern Mariana Islands and Papua New Guinea.

Celebrations kicked off early with FISU Oceania launching its new website and its IDUS video competition and social media campaign on 1 September. The campaign (developed by FISU Oceania interns, Aliza Green and Wes Maher), focused on increasing engagement with universities and students across the region as well as increasing awareness of FISU and IDUS. In addition to its new website and social media campaign, FISU Oceania also joined Instagram and instantly created a new following of global citizens.

The Northern Marianas Islands College were active in promoting the day with online competitions in soccer juggling and basketball free throws. Students who took part were recognised on the Northern Marianas College Sport Facebook page and awarded with prizes. Local activities were also held by Mariana’s paddlers who organised a outrigger paddle on the picturesque waters of Saipan.

Universities across New Zealand were able to hold activities on campus despite COVID restrictions. Lincoln University, The University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology and Victoria University Wellington provided incentives and prizes to students who got involved in the sport and fitness events held. We even heard that free ice cream was on offer! Enough to get any student involved we think.

Each year, more nations celebrate IDUS and in 2021, FISU Oceania looks forward to more activities and more celebrations across the region.