Bring on the pizza!Athletes are always hungry. And everybody likes pizza. That must have been the thought of Martin Roberts, the Chef de Mission of the Australian delegation, as the whole lot from Down Under together with indispensable mascot ‘Skippy the ‘Roo’ ordered some take out pizza and gobbled it up at the terraces in the International zone of the Athletes’ Village. For the Head of Delegation the perfect moment for a pep talk to his ‘wild bunch’ and to formally introduce his support staff to the athletes.
‘I just want you to know that the Universiade is a great event’, Martin said to his delegation. And he should know, being a dual gold medal winner at the 1993 SU besides also being an Olympian. ‘Never mind where you are in your sports career. Some of you are at the beginning, some of you in that middle area and some of you at the end. Nevertheless, it is a great opportunity, so be part of it. Some of you will go to London (2012 Olympics) and beyond so this is a great way to experience the Athletes’ Village life and flavor’, Martin added.
‘We all have the world championships of our specific sports which are fantastic, but the University Games are a great way to meet so many nations and all I say is just to make the best of it. Just rock’n roll with your sport.’
After his speech ‘Marty’ formally introduced the support staff to the delegation which responded with loud cheers.
Pizza, Skippy, but no beer as the competitions are coming up!
Australian Chef de Mission Martin Roberts