The Elite Athlete Friendly Univesity label awarded to HAMK
The Finnish Olympic Committee has awarded HAMK the label of a Elite Athlete Friendly University. The universities that have been awarded the label have a more functional everyday life for athletes and have proven practices for guiding students that support the combination of sport and studies.
In addition to HAMK, Laurea and Metropolia were also awarded theThe Elite Athlete Friendly Univesity label by the Finnish Olympic Committee this year. Universities that have been awarded the label work closely with the sports academies in their regions.
According to Jukka Tirri, Special Adviser for Student Peak Sports at the Olympic Committee, the Häme University of Applied Sciences’ sponsored athlete program is an excellent example of how universities can target support to their student athletes and cooperate with them in their communication and marketing.
HAMK has been sponsoring its goal-oriented student athletes since 2021. In addition to financial support, we have offered them the opportunity to create their own individual study plan, which allows them to combine study and sport. A number of internationally renowned athletes, with a wide range of sports, have been involved.
HAMK’s sponsorship benefits not only students but also local clubs
According to Heidi Ahokallio-Leppälä, Vice President of HAMK, it is important that students who compete at the highest level have the opportunity to complete a degree, which will improve their employment prospects after a career in sport.
“In addition, those at the top serve as good role models for other students. A particular strength is their sense of purpose, ambition and ability to manage deadlines.”
Jari Virtanen, HAMK’s sports services planner, also points out that supporting student athletes also benefits local sports clubs.
“The opportunity to study at university alongside a career in sport is a big advantage for many clubs in recruiting athletes, especially for those that cannot attract them with money. At the same time, it strengthens our involvement and cooperation in our area of activity.”
Top athlete friendly universities improve opportunities to combine studies and sport
Since 2023, the Finnish Olympic Committee has been auditing higher education institutions and awarding them the label of a elite athlete friendly university. The aim is to build a nationwide operating model that supports the dual careers of athletes at university level in the same way as in sports schools and sports high schools.
Currently, 14 HEIs have been awarded the label and a total of 20 HEIs are involved in the process with their sports academy partners. The audits have shown a strong willingness on the part of higher education institutions to develop their activities in line with the needs of athletes – for example by making study pathways more flexible and granting extra time on the basis of sport.
Representatives of higher education institutions received the label at a seminar in Tampere.
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