Overview of the Podkarpackie Academic Swimming Competition
The 2025 Academic Championships of Podkarpackie in swimming, held on 16 November at the ROSiR swimming pool in Rzeszów, gathered top university athletes from the region. Organized by the UITM AZS Club, the event featured a full slate of 50‑meter races across all strokes, a 100‑meter individual medley, and 4×50‑meter relays for both men and women. The competition also accommodated swimmers with disabilities, ensuring inclusive participation.
UITM’s Performance and Medal Highlights
University of Information Technology and Management (UITM) entered a strong squad that secured a total of five medals. Gabriela Szczudło earned two golds in the 50 m freestyle and 50 m butterfly, showcasing exceptional speed and technique. Anhelina Kryvaltsevich added a bronze in the 50 m breaststroke, while the women’s relay team captured bronze in the 4×50 m event. These results placed UITM third in the women’s classification and fourth in the men’s, underscoring the university’s competitive edge in regional academics and sports.
Why Academic Swimming Matters for Students
Participating in university-level sports offers benefits that extend beyond the pool. Athletes develop time‑management skills, resilience, and teamwork—qualities that translate directly into academic success and future careers. For students at UITM, the swimming program is integrated with academic support services, allowing athletes to balance rigorous training schedules with coursework.
Balancing Training and Studies
UITM’s coaching staff collaborates with academic advisors to create individualized training plans that respect class times and exam periods. This partnership ensures that athletes maintain high grades while pursuing their sporting goals. Students can also access tutoring and study‑group resources through the university’s learning support center.
Health and Well‑Being Benefits
Regular swimming improves cardiovascular health, muscular endurance, and flexibility. It also reduces stress and enhances mental clarity—factors that contribute to better concentration during lectures and exams. The university’s wellness program offers workshops on nutrition, recovery, and injury prevention tailored to swimmers.
How to Join UITM’s Swimming Team
Prospective athletes interested in representing UITM can follow a clear pathway:
- Eligibility Check: Confirm that you are a registered student at UITM and meet the minimum academic standing required by the AZS Club.
- Trial Session: Attend an open trial organized by the swimming club. These sessions assess technique, speed, and endurance.
- Registration: Complete the club registration form and submit any required medical clearance documents.
- Training Commitment: Commit to a weekly training schedule that includes at least three pool sessions and one strength‑conditioning session.
- Competition Participation: Once accepted, you will be eligible to compete in regional and national academic championships.
For more details, visit the UITM AZS Club page or contact the sports office directly.
Training Tips for Competitive Swimmers
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to competitive swimming, the following strategies can help you improve performance:
- Set Specific Goals: Define measurable targets for each stroke and distance. Use a training log to track progress.
- Focus on Technique: Work with a coach to refine stroke mechanics, reducing drag and increasing propulsion.
- Incorporate Interval Workouts: High‑intensity intervals boost speed and anaerobic capacity.
- Strength Training: Complement pool work with dry‑land exercises that target core stability and upper‑body power.
- Recovery Protocols: Prioritize sleep, hydration, and active recovery sessions such as light swimming or mobility drills.
These practices align with the training philosophy promoted by UITM’s coaching staff, ensuring athletes are prepared for the demands of regional championships.
Impact of Sports on Academic Reputation
UITM’s success in swimming contributes to the university’s broader reputation for fostering well‑rounded graduates. The institution’s emphasis on sports excellence demonstrates a commitment to holistic education, attracting students who value both academic rigor and athletic opportunity. This synergy is reflected in the university’s rankings and in the growing number of students who cite sports participation as a key factor in their decision to enroll.
Community Engagement Through Sports
Competitive events like the Podkarpackie championships serve as community touchpoints, drawing local media attention and strengthening ties with regional partners. UITM’s athletes often engage in outreach programs, such as coaching clinics for younger swimmers, reinforcing the university’s role as a community leader.
Future Events and Opportunities
Looking ahead, UITM will continue to host and participate in a range of academic sports events across Poland. Upcoming competitions include the national university championships and the annual Rzeszów sports festival. These events provide additional platforms for athletes to showcase their talents and for the university to promote its academic and athletic programs.
How to Stay Informed
Students and alumni can keep up with upcoming events by subscribing to the university’s newsletter, following the sports office on social media, and checking the events calendar on the official website. Engaging with these channels ensures you never miss an opportunity to support or join the next championship.
Take the Next Step in Your Academic and Athletic Journey
Whether you’re a current student looking to elevate your swimming performance or a prospective student exploring sports programs, the University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszow offers a supportive environment for growth. The combination of academic excellence and competitive sports creates a unique platform for personal development.
Ready to explore how you can become part of UITM’s swimming legacy? Submit your application today and start your journey toward academic and athletic success.
Have questions about training schedules or eligibility? Schedule a free consultation with the sports office and get personalized guidance.
Want to learn more about the benefits of university sports? Explore our sports programs and discover how athletics can complement your studies.
Share your experiences or ask for advice in the comments below—your insights can help fellow students navigate the balance between academics and athletics.
