University signs historic agreement with Brazilian Government

The Ministry of Sport of Brazil made history this week by signing an official partnership agreement with Sheffield Hallam University, which will see the two organisations work together closely on a range of sports science services.

The collaboration will mean Brazilian elite athletes will benefit from sports psychology, physiotherapy, physiology, strength/conditioning, and technology analysis that Sheffield Hallam is now well renowned for providing to elite athletes in the UK.

With Brazil gearing up to host the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, the agreement will also provide opportunities for academic staff and students to work in voluntary roles at major international sports events in Brazil, in the same way that Sheffield Hallam has provided opportunities at London 2012 through its unique partnership with LOCOG.

The partnership agreement is effective for the next four years and was signed by Brazilian Sports Minister, Aldo Rebelo and Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University, Professor Philip Jones at the Brazilian Embassy in London.

Aldo Rebelo said: "Sheffield Hallam has achieved a huge amount in disciplines related to sport, with recognized excellence in the UK and internationally. I believe that Brazil has much to learn from the University’s experience, especially as we prepare for two major events, the FIFA 2014 World Cup and the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

"I think the partnership will open a field of progress and development that will bring many benefits to Brazil."

Guy Masterman, chair of the academy of sport and physical activity at Sheffield Hallam said: "Since the Brazil judo team came to Sheffield for the first time last year, we have developed an increasingly close relationship with Brazil.  This agreement is a way to extend our support to other Brazilian sports teams.

"It’s also recognition of the strategy that has been pursued by the city of Sheffield as a whole to become a leading sport destination."

For press information contact: Ally Mogg on 0114 225 2811 or email pressoffice@shu.ac.uk