Marsel Valeyev: I’m wary of the Chmiel brothers in the Polish team 24.06.2010

In 2008 Moscow State University of Railway Engineering was the leader of the Russian student table tennis world. The team became the winner of the Russian Summer Universiade in Kazan. Somehow I don’t see these sportsmen at the Championship.

It’s explainable: the leading players such as Vasily Lakeyev graduated from the University. They’ve been in their fifth at that time. At present Moscow State University of Railway Engineering is presented by the women’s team only.

The Championship is mainly for amateur players. Do you know any students that you’ve met during other tournaments?

There are the Chmiel brothers in the Polish team. One of them is among top 100 table tennis players. Another one is up to his brother. By the way the Polish players have already secured a victory over Russian State University for Humanities. Though it could be explained by the fact that it was the first game.

What do the other athletes say about the Championship?

I asked this question to many players who had participated in similar championships. So, the common feedback is very positive. Accommodation, catering, hotel, everything is awesome. As a comparison during one of the championships the sportsmen had to stay in a student hostel. As for Kazan here our guests stay at the hotel in downtown and can walk along central Bauman street, go to the supermarket. Everything is nearby.

You made your debut in the first summer Universiade of 2008 in Kazan. It was the year when you entered the higher institution. When did members of your team enter Kazan University?

The women’s team and I entered the University in 2008, the rest of my team in 2009. I’d like to thank the KFU administration for meeting us halfway. For instance, on June 25 I should have an exam but on that day I have to play at the Championship. I think that the University will meet me halfway and let me pass the exam in autumn. That will give me more time for reading up for the exam.