When a podium finish goes hand in hand with a diploma
With one foot in the ring and the other in the classrooms at the University of Montpellier, athlete Adrien Rubis has won the world Muay Thai championship title and, more recently, been recognized as a high-level athlete atUM.
Adrien Rubis, a bachelor’s student in Physical and Sports Science and Technology (STAPS) with a concentration in sports coaching, has won the light heavyweight title. To ensure he can complete his studies without compromising his performance, the young boxer has applied to the University of Montpellier to be recognized as a high-level student-athlete.
5 hours of training a day
This program allows him to balance competing at a high level in his sport with continuing his university education. “I’m currently in my junior year, and I only have a few months left to complete my bachelor’s degree and obtain a professional license so I can work as a coach or strength and conditioning specialist. This academic challenge is particularly important to me,” explains Adrien Rubis.
With this status, athletes can receive personalized support, including accommodations for coursework and exams during their initial or continuing education. “Since earning the title, I’ve received some very interesting offers for fights in Brazil and Thailand. With a flexible schedule, I’ll be able to compete in upcoming international tournaments with peace of mind. “For each fight, I need two to three months of preparation, training five hours a day, six days a week, ” says the young boxer.
More than 300 applications from student athletes competing at the highest level
The status of high-level student-athlete is granted byUM, following a recommendation from the High-Level Sports Committee. The committee assesses the compatibility between athletic participation and academic studies. “Every year, we receive more than 300 applications for individual and team sports,” explains Vincent Rooryck, high-level sports coordinator at the Physical and Sports Activities Department (SUAPS). Among the 30 disciplines, rugby, volleyball, track and field, handball, lifesaving/first aid, triathlon, and underwater hockey remain the sports most popular among students.
In return, selected candidates must do everything in their power to succeed in their degree program, report all their athletic results to the administration, and representUM intercollegiate championships. “In total, nearly 220 high-level student-athletes were recognized in 2021/2022. Students under this program sign an academic contract with one ofUM 17 schools, departments, or institutes,” explains Vincent Rooryck .
Obtain status
To qualify for elite athlete status, you must be registered on the ministerial lists, be a member of a Pôle France training center, have an agreement with a training center, or meet theUM athletic criteria. Students wishing to obtain elite athlete student status must apply online via theUM websiteUM submit the required supporting documents.