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Age: 19
Place of Birth: Linz, Austria
University: University of Linz (AUT)
Sport: Rowing
How and why did you get involved in Rowing?
I started Rowing seven years ago, when I was about 12 years old because of my older brother. He was invited to try rowing by our coach who visited our school one year before and he really enjoyed the sport, so I gave it a try and I was immediately fond of rowing. It is such a beautiful sport, you get outside and you form great friendships.
What do you study, and how do you balance your study, training and competition?
In the past year I began to study Biological Chemistry, but I finally passed the entry-test for medicine, which I’m going to start studying in October. Up to now it was never easy balancing sport and school/university because rowing is completely separated from the education system. With enough discipline and will it all worked out, although being tired and having a full schedule is always part of my life.
Tell us about your experiences at the European Universities Championships 2019. Was it your first time at a EUSA event, and what did you enjoy the most?
The Championships in Jönköping was my first competition of that kind and I really enjoyed racing there. It was well organised, the atmosphere was good and we had lots of fun. But I guess I most enjoyed the Swedish cinnamon buns!
“It is such a beautiful sport, you get outside and you form great friendships.”
Why do you think taking part in university sport is important?
In my opinion participating in university sports is very important because it connects people even internationally and it keeps you healthy, active and concentrated.
Next year the European Universities Games are taking place in Belgrade, Serbia. Are you hoping to be there, and if so, what do you hope to achieve?
I would be happy to join next year as well, hopefully also in the 4s, but as I am going to start a new and also challenging field of study, I’m not sure if I’m going to be able to practice enough.
What is your message to European student-athletes like yourself?
My message to other student athletes is: It is hard for everyone to bring education and sport in line, nevertheless it‘s worth the effort and even if it is not always fun, hard work pays off and makes you stronger and resistant in all circumstances.
EUSA would like to congratulate Katja for her success at the 2019 European Universities Championships, and we hope to see her next year at the European Universities Games 2020 in Belgrade, Serbia!