University of St Andrews undergraduate rower Sophia Issberner will represent Great Britain this weekend at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Germany.
Sophia Issberner
Sophia will compete in the Women’s Eight (W8+) rowing event in the Rhine-Ruhr region, with racing scheduled from 25-27 July. The final will take place on Sunday 27 July.
Sophia’s selection marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first student from the University of St Andrews to be selected for a GB rowing team. Her inclusion in the W8+ crew is a testament to her dedication and talent, and the team has been training intensively together over the past two weeks in preparation for the competition.
The World University Games is one of the largest multi-sport events in the world, bringing together over 10,000 student athletes from more than 150 countries. Held across the Rhine-Ruhr valley in Germany, the Games showcase elite university-level competition across a wide range of sports.
The GB rowing team features a dynamic mix of talent, including seasoned international athletes with World Cup and U23 medals, alongside promising newcomers earning their first international vests. Sophia’s selection places her among this exciting group of student athletes representing Great Britain on the global stage.
The GB W8+ crew is expected to be a strong contender for a medal, and supporters can follow the action live via FISU TV.
University of St Andrews Director of Rowing Lewis McCue said: “Sophia’s inclusion in the GB squad is a landmark achievement for the University of St Andrews and a proud moment for our rowing programme. Her dedication, work ethic, and commitment to excellence have been outstanding, and this historic selection reflects the progress we’re making as a club. The entire team is behind her as she heads to Germany, and we’re excited to see her and the W8+ crew challenge for a place on the podium.”
More information about the GB student athletes competing at the Games can be found on the British Rowing website.
With thanks to St Andrews University
