VŠE’s Olympic Hopefuls: Three Students Set Their Sights on Paris 2024

The Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE) proudly boasts three students who will represent the Czech Republic at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. David Schweiner (beach volleyball), Gabriela Satková (canoe slalom), and Martin Straka (open water swimming) exemplify how top-tier athletes can successfully balance high-level sports with demanding university studies.

David Schweiner, a 30-year-old beach volleyball star and 2023 World Champion, will be competing in his second Olympics. Gabriela Satková, a 22-year-old canoe slalom prodigy and recent U23 World Champion, is making her Olympic debut. Martin Straka, a 23-year-old long-distance swimmer, qualified for his first Olympics with an impressive 17th place finish at the World Championships in Doha.

Balancing Sports and Studies

All three athletes highlight the challenge of managing their rigorous training schedules with their studies at VŠE. They praise the university’s flexibility and support. During exam periods, their days are packed with training sessions and study time, leaving little room for other activities. The athletes emphasize the importance of effective time management and the need to plan carefully to meet both their athletic and academic commitments.

VŠE’s Support System

The athletes unanimously appreciate VŠE’s support in their sporting careers. The university offers flexible exam schedules, understanding professors, and additional resources provided through Center for physical education and sport (CTVS). The UNIS program, in particular, has been instrumental in allowing athletes like Straka to participate in crucial international competitions. This flexibility and support from faculty and staff have been key to their success in both academics and sports.

Olympic Aspirations

As they prepare for Paris, each athlete has set personal goals for the Games. Schweiner and his partner are aiming for a top performance, recognizing the high level of competition in the Olympic tournament. Satková is focusing on reaching the finals and showcasing her best performance. Straka aims to maximize his potential and minimize the gap between himself and the winner in his event.

Messages to the VŠE Community

All three Olympians express deep appreciation for the VŠE community’s support and encourage their fellow students to follow their Olympic journey. They view their participation in the Olympics not just as a personal achievement, but as a representation of the entire VŠE community. They hope their journey will inspire other students and demonstrate the value of perseverance in pursuing one’s goals.

As these three exceptional student-athletes head to Paris, they carry with them not just their personal aspirations, but the pride and support of the entire VŠE community. Their journey serves as an inspiration to all students, demonstrating that with determination, support, and careful balancing, it’s possible to excel both in academics and in pursuing one’s dreams on the world stage.

As David, Gabriela, and Martin prepare to represent not only their country but also VŠE on the world stage, we invite the entire VŠE community to rally behind them and wish them the best of luck!