On Wednesday, May 24, Luiss Guido Carli University played host to the highly anticipated Closing Ceremony of the Rome University Championships. The culmination of the 12th season of this prestigious tournament brought together 17 universities and countless students. Among the three pioneering institutions that initiated this championship a decade ago, JCU proudly stands. As the only organization in Italy that encompasses a wide array of sports and attracts more universities each year, the Rome University Championships continue to be a remarkable celebration of athletic talent and camaraderie.
The JCU Athletics Department takes great pride in the exponential growth and enhanced quality of our teams. This year marked the launch of our Tennis Team, a significant addition to the tournament. Additionally, our Men’s Basketball and 5v5 Soccer teams emerged victorious in the Europa-league Championships, showcasing their prowess and determination. Notably, JCU stands as the sole university in Rome to have a dedicated Cheerleading Team, offering unwavering support to our Gladiators during their games. These achievements reflect our commitment to fostering a comprehensive and inclusive athletic program that continues to evolve and thrive.
The Closing Ceremony featured notable figures from the Roman sports and cultural landscape who delivered engaging speeches emphasizing the significance of student-athletes challenging themselves through varsity participation during their university experience. These speeches underscored the invaluable soft skills gained through team sports. The ceremony also presented over 100 awards and mentions to deserving student-athletes, coaches, referees, and members of the championship committee. Pilar Murguia, our esteemed Student Services Director, was invited to the podium to deliver an inspiring speech. She highlighted the profound impact that participating in sports can have on students, emphasizing the importance of believing in one’s dreams, willpower, and abilities.
On behalf of the entire JCU Athletics Department, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every student who proudly represented our university in varsity teams this year. We would also like to express our gratitude to our former Dean of Students, Carla Wiegers, and Student Service Director, Pilar Murguia, for their invaluable support. Additionally, we extend our appreciation to all the students, coaches, and staff members who contributed to the success of this momentous ceremony. Your dedication and unwavering support are integral to the thriving spirit of JCU Athletics.
As the curtain falls on the Rome University Championships’ 12th season, we fondly remember the exhilarating moments, the triumphs, and the friendships forged through the love of sports. The Closing Ceremony served as a testament to the remarkable growth and impact of this championship, showcasing the power of sports to shape character, build resilience, and foster a sense of community. Moving forward, we reaffirm our commitment to providing an exceptional athletic experience for our student-athletes.
Once a Gladiator, always a Gladiator.
