- ALL
Opening Ceremony for the 65th Seven Universities Meet held
On July 11, 2026, the opening ceremony for the 65th Seven Universities Meet was held at Kyushu University. Representatives from the University of Osaka, including President KUMANOGOH Atsushi, Senior Executive Vice President TANAKA Toshihiro, the University of Osaka Sports Union Chair ZAMA Akihiro attended the event and expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming event.
The opening ceremony got off to a vibrant start with an impressive Japanese taiko drum performance by students from Kyushu University.
During the ceremony, the championship flag and trophy were returned by Hokkaido University, the overall champion of the previous year. This was followed by addresses from the President of Kyushu University, who serves as Chair of the Meet, and a Kyushu University student serving as Chair of the Organizing Committee.
This was followed by the athletes’ oath, creating a solemn and focused atmosphere that signaled the official opening of the Seven Universities Meet.
At the reception following the opening ceremony, the president and chairs from each university spoke about their enthusiasm for the meet. The University of Osaka delivered a particularly spirited address, as it is scheduled to host the Meet as the organizing university next year.
The humorous speeches created a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, while anticipation and determination for the fierce competitions ahead gradually heightened the excitement throughout the venue.
The event also featured a magic performance by Kyushu University students, which delighted the participants and further enlivened the atmosphere.
President KUMANOGOH sharing his aspirations for the Meet
Chair ZAMA speaking passionately about his aspirations for the Meet
While some events, including the winter sports competitions, have already taken place, 35 events remain to be held, and the Seven Universities Meet is now set to get fully underway.
The University of Osaka currently stands in fourth place overall, having held the provisional top position at the conclusion of the winter sports competitions. With many events still to come, we expect to gain additional points, and attention is focused on its pursuit of a stronger position in the final standings.
As we strive to capture its first overall title in 15 years, we warmly invite students, faculty and staff, alumni, and family members to cheer on our athletes.
Related links
Seven Universities Meet website (link in Japanese)
https://7univ-nanadaisen.jp/
Seven Universities Meet Official YouTube
https://youtube.com/channel/UCQWnedwvxr2Bjdkyt4h2GcQ?feature=shared
The University of Osaka Sports Union YouTube
https://youtube.com/@osaka-uni_sports-uni?feature=shared