Kacper Maciejuk a Physiotherapy student at Vincent Pol University, is a member of the international cycling team Santic Wibatech. He told us about his passion, his path to a career, and how he balances professional sports with his studies. On the occasion of our University’s 25th anniversary, he also extended his wishes to its staff and students.
Do you remember your first bike?
My first bike was purple. My parents bought it for me when I was about 4 years old. I quickly learned how to ride it without major problems with balance or riding.
Where did your interest in cycling come from?
My interest in cycling mainly arose thanks to my PE teacher in primary school, but also from my brother, who started racing at a very young age. Shortly after him, I also began cycling.
How old were you when you first participated in a competition?
The first time I participated in a serious competition, I was 8 years old. It was my first race and it was very tough. I remember getting out of breath and not being able to breathe after crossing the finish line (laughs). Later, it stabilized. At the age of 8-9, I was already racing in my first road bike competitions around Warsaw, riding there with my PE teacher. I was already achieving small successes back then.
Were you happy with those successes?
Yes, those successes motivated me, and I wanted to race and ride even more.
You joined the German team Santic-Wibatech. What sacrifices and commitments were necessary to join the professionals?
The club I’m in is a professional third-division club. It was one of my dreams that I wanted to fulfill. Joining a professional team cost me 8 years of hard work, sacrifices, health compromises, and school sacrifices. It wasn’t easy, but I’m very happy to be in this place and I hope there will be a chance for further development.
Did you ever have moments of weakness, thinking “maybe I should give up”?
Sometimes such thoughts appeared, but I didn’t have major problems with it. I knew what I was striving for, that this sport develops me not only physically but also intellectually. I enjoyed the successes and knew I wanted to continue.
What does this sport give you?
Cycling develops me intellectually and teaches tactical thinking. It’s not just about riding a bike, but also about planning strategies. In a professional team, we often ride for one leader, for whom the whole team works. This sport develops me in various ways, including life skills. I’m very satisfied with that.
Did you ever imagine not being a cyclist?
Initially, I played football, like many boys at the age of 6-7. Later, I switched to cycling. I had a few moments of doubt, especially after crashes during races, when I wondered if it was all worth the risk. But during training, such thoughts didn’t cross my mind.
What thought kept you motivated then?
I often thought about my family, about my brother who also practices this sport. I knew that if I endured difficult moments, I would become better. Every time something didn’t go my way, I wanted to become better for the next race or training.
You are studying Physiotherapy at VPU. How do you manage to combine studying with professional sports?
I chose Vincent Pol University because of the part-time Physiotherapy program, which allows me to combine studying with racing. In the future, I would like to work in a professional cycling team as a physiotherapist. I chose this field also because a few of my friends who studied here recommended this university to me. Many lecturers understand my situation and are flexible with exams and deadlines. I appreciate it very much and hope to complete this course.
Our University is celebrating its 25th anniversary. What would you wish for the university, its staff, and your fellow students on this occasion?
I wish for the university to continue developing, supporting those who want to fulfill their dreams, especially athletes. I hope it will continue to be friendly to those who combine studying with sports, and that the lecturers will understand the specifics of their situation.
Photo archive of the athlete (Dariusz Krzywański, Mario Steihle, Santic-Wibatech, Mazovia Team, V4kerekparverseny, LZSLublin)