FISU Oceania Vice President Ms Amy Sasser and Executive Committee member Mr Karl Whalen have been taking part in activities associated with the ONOC General Assembly which is currently being held in Nadi, Fiji.
Hosted by the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) and the Oceania Paralympic Committee (OPC) the coveted Step Up Oceania conference, the ONOC General Assembly and the OSFO General Assembly have bought together representatives from over 70 sports stakeholders and partners from the Oceania region.
The Step Up Oceania Conference has been held for the second time after a successful inaugural event in 2023. This year’s conference was held under the theme of “Positioning the Pacific for Success” with a key focus on how the Pacific can leverage from what is considered their home games – the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.
“The Step Up Oceania Conference has showcased Oceania’s desire to succeed at Brisbane 2032”, says Mr Whalen. “All Oceania sport federations and National Olympic Committees are committed to working together in the lead up to the Brisbane Games. We are excited that university sport can also be part of the collaborations and discussions as we provide opportunities for student-athletes in the lead up to 2032”, concludes Mr Whalen.
Connecting with the numerous representatives from National University Sport Federations (NUSFs) who are also in attendance has also provided valuable discussions on university sport projects in specific countries.
“Being able to connect in person with our NUSFs from numerous countries has provided valuable time for discussions about how we can further advance university sport in the Pacific”, says Ms Sasser. “Providing competition and leadership opportunities for university students is a key priority for FISU Oceania and we have been able to promote some of these opportunities during our time here in Fiji. We are looking forward to further collaborations and partnerships with existing and future NUSF members”, concluded Ms Sasser.
Attending the event in person provided an opportunity for FISU Oceania to further educate Oceania sport federations and other key stakeholders about the global university sport network of events and opportunities.
As a member of OSFO (Organisation of Sport Federations of Oceania), FISU Oceania was also able to attend the OSFO General Assembly where Kevin Gosper was recognised for his significant contribution to sport in the region. As outgoing President of OSFO, Mr Gosper reflected on his time with the federation and welcomed newly appointed President, Ms Yvonne Mullins. Taking part in the OSFO General Assembly is seen as a vital opportunity to connect with other sports federations in the Pacific region.
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For more information about ONOC visit their website.
For more information about OSFO visit their website.
