Polish sports unions have long faced problems that are becoming increasingly visible on the global stage. fresh reports of Polish Olympic women uncover pathologies and deficiency of support, which negatively influence the preparation and results of athletes. This article will look at the latest cases and reactions of athletes and commentators.
Disclosures of the Pikulik Sisters
Daria and Victoria Pikulik, sisters competing in the madison race in track cycling at the Paris Olympic Games, took seventh place, which is only 1 place worse than their score from Tokyo 3 years ago. After the competition ended, in an interview with TVP Sport, they revealed shocking details about their preparation and support, or alternatively its lack, from the Polish union.
- “We were hoping for a medal. That's how the race started. We had to catch up a bit due to me," Victoria said.
- "Ambitions were somewhat higher. After all, we did everything we could. I have nothing to object to in preparation," Daria added.
Daria Pikulik besides described how she had to finance her groups herself, as well as the deficiency of basic equipment and support:
- "In February, I had to pay for the group myself. We haven't even had any information on the backing until April. We didn't have bikes, we had nothing. We got the suits the day before we started.”
Kolarka stressed that the deficiency of support cuts the wings at the start, which negatively affects the morale and results of athletes:
- “We have talented players, but what can you do alone without support? This cuts your wings at the start. You just feel worse, you feel they don't believe in you. You do not have what you deserve.”
More extended problems in Polish sports unions
The words of the Pikulik sisters are not only reports of problems in Polish sports unions during this year's games. Sports commentators besides highlighted the problems of dudehood and integrity in classifications.
Jakub Zborowski, a commentator of Eurosport, powerfully criticized the Polish Szermiercz Union after the failure of Polish Florecists to Italy and:
- "This is how dudes and deals in the Polish Swords Association end. I say this with full responsibility. If we had fair classifications, then specified moments at the Games, not only in fencing, we would have much less.”
Tomasz Jaroński, another Eurosport commentator, besides referred to union problems, though in a more mysterious way:
- “The crucial thing is that the president qualified for the games, the cyclist does not have to.”
Arkadiusz Kułynycz, Polish wrestler, after losing the bronze medal, besides spared no criticism of Polish sports activists:
- “Activists discriminate against me... alternatively of sending a sparringpartner with me, the activists came here with accompanying persons. This is not how it should be.”
Summary
Pathologies and problems in Polish sports unions pose a serious challenge for our athletes, who, despite their talent and hard work, frequently do not have adequate support. The revelations of the Pikulik sisters and criticisms from commentators and another athletes show that deep reforms and changes are needed to guarantee the integrity and support that are essential to accomplish success in the global sports arena. Only in this way can Polish athletics number on better results and worthy representation of the country at the most crucial sporting events.
Daniel Głogowski
Expert in his field – Publicist, author and social activist. The first articles were published in 1999 for global publishers. For more than 30 years, he has gained his experience through cooperation with the largest editorial offices. In his articles, he seeks to address controversial topics and present first viewpoints that allowed for a deeper knowing of the issues discussed.
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