The Rector of Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), Prof. Dr. S. Martono, M.Si., inaugurated the “Rektor UNNES Open 2023” at the UNNES Badminton Hall in Pegandan on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. This event, running from July 18 to 22, gathered 391 participants from various regions, with competitions organized across 15 categories: six age-based groups, two high school groups, and seven university groups.
Sixteen university delegations participated, including UNNES, Unesa, UNY, UNS, UNJ, UPI, UGM, Undip, UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, Untidar, Unsoed, Unhas, Undiksha, UBT, PNC, and Polines. These universities competed in thrilling badminton matches, making the Rektor UNNES Open 2023 a highly anticipated event for badminton enthusiasts eager to showcase their skills and talents.
In his opening remarks, the Rector emphasized that the event aims to strengthen public interest and enthusiasm for badminton. He also highlighted his hope to see the UNNES academic community engage in sports, which not only bolsters physical health but also fosters values of unity and cooperation.
“Through the Rektor UNNES Open 2023, we aspire to provide a platform for individuals to express their passion for badminton. This sport not only hones technical skills but also instills values of honesty, discipline, and resilience. We hope this event will nurture enthusiasm and achievement in badminton,” stated Prof. Martino.
The Vice Dean of Academic Affairs at the Faculty of Sports Sciences UNNES, Donny Wira Yudha Kusuma, M.Pd., Ph.D., reported that the Rektor UNNES Open 2023 includes nine categories: Early Age Singles (Boys, Girls), Junior Singles (Boys, Girls), Beginner Singles (Boys, Girls), High School Singles (Boys, Girls), High School Doubles (Boys, Girls, Mixed), University Singles (Boys, Girls) – PTN, University Doubles (Boys, Girls, Mixed) – PTN, Executive University Doubles – State University, and University Achievement Doubles – State University.
“Through the Rektor UNNES Open 2023, UNNES hopes to develop and expand badminton activities among students and the wider community, creating a supportive environment for discovering and nurturing badminton talent. UNNES is committed to promoting and supporting a strong sports culture, and this event represents a concrete step in achieving that goal,” stated the sports education lecturer.
