Kyiv students sample big-match environment

A group of students have spoken of their delight at being given a unique opportunity to be part of the UEFA EURO 2012 Host Broadcast Talent Programme at Kyiv's Olympic Stadium.

The initiative, running at a UEFA European Championship for the first time, involves 230 students from Poland and Ukraine working at the final tournament in the three host broadcasting domains of TV & Video Production, HB Logistics and Broadcaster Servicing.

The main objective is to give talented students experience in positions related to their academic studies in media, journalism and sport management.

The Kyiv contingent got their first taste of a high-profile game on Monday, when the co-hosts played Sweden. There were inevitable nerves for some on such a prestigious occasion, but once they had settled in and focused on the tasks in hand, any angst soon dissipated.

"We were worried, but after checking the first commentator the concern disappeared and there was only confidence," said Sergiy, a student at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. "We provided support to about 30 commentators from different countries during the match. During the game there were no problems, everything went very well. This is not surprising, because we started our preparations eight to ten hours before the game."

Another student at the academy − which is a partner in the UEFA EURO 2012 Host Broadcast Talent Programme – said the positive atmosphere within the team made for the perfect working environment. "I have a very positive [first] impression, said Iryna. "All the people who work with us are extremely friendly.

"At the right time our teachers can be quite strict, but they are also able to create such a relaxed atmosphere that we really feel we are a part of the UEFA team. It was a little scary at the beginning, but then it all went like clockwork."

Some of the students were involved at the UEFA EURO 2012 finals draw in the Ukrainian capital last December. Olha, who has finished her fourth course at the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy and works in relations with broadcast partners, was one of seven students to take part.

"The European Championship is a very big event," she said. "Herculean efforts are needed to organise it. It was very interesting to look behind the scenes of the preparatory process and learn how it happens. It is dream work. Here I am able to communicate with people who travel a lot and are real professionals.

"There is a very good atmosphere in our international team," she added. "We have a great leader. Football plays a very important role in such unity and mutual understanding. It brings together people who from all over Europe. Although we have a lot of work to do, all students are in a good mood. It's very nice to know that you contributed to this great event and are a small cog in a huge machine."