BY Shannon Colton | Monday 28 January 2019
The University of Hull has become the first university to be an official partner of Team GB, it was announced today (Monday 28 January).
The exclusive partnership covers a six-year period and includes the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games.
It includes opportunities that will benefit the University of Hull’s students, staff and communities, as well as presenting opportunities for joint research and enterprise projects, delivered by the University in support of Team GB.
British Olympic Association CEO Bill Sweeney, said: “With planning for Tokyo 2020 well underway, we’re excited to announce this innovative partnership, which will deliver positive, tangible outcomes for both parties. Our six-year commitment with the University of Hull underlines our vision to plan long-term beyond Tokyo and on to Paris 2024.
“At the heart of Team GB’s mantra is giving athletes a platform to succeed exploring all avenues in the pursuit of success. We will be conducting joint research and developing specific courses looking into the positive impact of a strong team ethos and how this can help achieve success in highly competitive environments. We look forward to working together to grow this vision further.”
To launch the partnership, the University of Hull is holding a day of activities including welcoming gold-winning Olympic cyclist Elinor Barker and Chef de Mission (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020) Mark England, who will take part in a question and answer session for staff and students.
As part of the launch, ninety children from primary schools in Hull will take part in a mini Olympics at the University’s new sports facilities cheered on by Luke Campbell, who became the pride of Hull after securing gold in the boxing ring in the 2012 London Olympics.
Professor Susan Lea, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hull, said: “Team GB believe in everyday people achieving extraordinary things and the same ethos lies at the heart of the University of Hull.
“This is the foundation of our partnership. We believe that the extraordinary lies within everyone – but to realise this potential takes hard work, support and inspiration. Together with Team GB, we want to demonstrate that given the right opportunities, dedication and a supportive team, anyone can achieve their personal best.
“It is an honour for us to be able to partner with Team GB and we look forward to working together to achieve our joint ambitions.”
The University of Hull joins adidas, Aldi, Deloitte, DFS and Ocean Outdoor as domestic partners of Team GB.
Councillor Stephen Brady, leader of Hull City Council, said: “This is brilliant news for both the university and our city.
“Hull has a proud sporting history, home to fantastic football and rugby clubs, as well as inspirational sporting figures such as Olympic gold medallist Luke Campbell.
“An incredible partnership like the one announced today can only be a positive thing for Hull’s next generation of sporting stars.”
