In collaboration with Izmir Institute of Technology (IZTECH) and Near East University (NEU), Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Faculty of Health Sciences organized a special event in memory of Osman Çetintaş who sadly passed away in the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake. The event titled “Academic Legacy of Osman Çetintaş: Sports, Science, Strategy” was held on Thursday, 27 March 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at EMU Health Sciences Faculty Champion Angels Amphitheatre.
Featuring world-renowned volleyball trainer Giovanni Guidetti among its guests, the event was attended by EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç, NEU Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ, Famagusta Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay, Director of TRNC Department of Culture Şirin Zaimağaoğlu, EMU Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Osman M. Karatepe, Prof. Dr. Sonuç Zorlu and Prof. Dr. Ali Öztüren, Dean of the Health Sciences Faculty Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç, Dean of the Communication Faculty Prof. Dr. Metin Ersoy, Director of Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Prof. Dr. Ali Hakan Ulusoy, Chair of the Champion Angels Association Ruşen Karakaya, members of Çetintaş family, faculty members and many students.
“Gathered to Turn Osman Çetintaş’s Name into an Academic Legacy”
Noting that she would deliver her speech as a family member not as an academician, Dean of the EMU Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç said, “Today, we have gathered here to remember an academic and a trainer whom we deeply loved”. Sharing her feelings about Osman Çetintaş, Prof. Dr. Malkoç stated that Çetintaş was an exemplary individual, stressing his achievements in sports and academics. Prof. Dr. Malkoç highlighted that Çetintaş was distinguished not only by his accomplishments but also by his kindness. Moreover, Prof. Dr. Malkoç also paid tribute to the Champion Angels who lost their lives in the Kahramanmaraş earthquake. Emphasizing the importance of the event, Prof. Dr. Malkoç stated, “We are here today to honor Osman Çetintaş by turning his name into an academic legacy. We will continue to uphold his dreams, hopes, and values”.
“Osman Çetintaş and Champion Angels will always be Remembered”
In his speech, Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay noted that the Famagusta region has gained recognition for its volleyball achievements, pointing out that many successful teams since the 1960s have come from there. Dr. Uluçay also addressed the earthquake, describing its severity by saying, “It wouldn’t have been this bad even in a war” and emphasized that the support from the people during the disaster would never be forgotten. Dr. Uluçay mentioned that they are coping with tough times through cultural, artistic, and sports events. He highlighted that Osman Çetintaş and the Champion Angels would always be remembered and emphasized the value of sharing these emotions as a united nation. Furthermore, Dr. Uluçay expressed gratitude to the Eastern Mediterranean University Faculty of Health Sciences for their loyalty by naming the venue of the event “Champion Angels”.
“A Light Guiding Us in The Quest for Justice in Science, Sports, Strategy”
Chair of the Champion Angels Association Ruşen Karakaya stated that it is time to remember ‘Ozi’ and champion angels and, that today is a day to preserve the spirit of resistance. Referring to Osman Çetintaş as ‘Ozi’, Karakaya described him as a champion known for his victories, determination, and intelligence. Karakaya emphasized that Çetintaş was a true leader, not only a strategist on the field but also in life, combining his intellect and knowledge with courage. She further stated that Çetintaş’s legacy extends beyond volleyball, serving as a guiding light in science, sports, strategy, and the quest for justice. Karakaya acknowledged the immense value of Çetintaş and his students, who tragically lost their lives. She said, “They left us more than just a legacy in sports and academics; they left us with honor, courage, and the spirit of resilience. With this spirit, the light of science, the discipline of sports, and the power of justice, we will carry on their dreams”.
“Çetintaş Left a Lasting Impact both in Academia and Sports”
EMU Rector Prof. Dr. Hasan Kılıç also made remarks during the event, stating that the event went beyond being an academic gathering, serving as a tribute to Osman Çetintaş, the beloved sports coach and young leader who tragically lost his life along with the Champion Angels Team in the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, and as an effort to preserve his legacy. Prof. Dr. Kılıç stated, “Osman Çetintaş left a lasting impact both in academia and sports and was not only an example through his achievements but also through his humanity”. Prof. Dr. Kılıç stressed that Çetintaş’s legacy would continue to inspire, not just in sports, but also in science, the pursuit of justice, and strategy. Prof. Dr. Kılıç expressed his deep admiration for Osman Çetintaş and the Champion Angels, assuring that they would do everything possible to keep their legacy alive.
“Our Collective Duty to Preserve the Memory of Osman Çetintaş and Those Set Their Heart on Sports”
NEU Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ said he is honoured to be part of the event which is a tribute to Champion Angels and Osman Çetintaş and provided information on academic background of Osman Çetintaş, noting that Çetintaş’s commitment to academics and sports is the common ground bringing EMU, NEU and IZTECH together. Prof. Dr. Şanlıdağ pointed out that the collaboration of these three universities today highlights the significance of unity in strengthening societal values, beyond just academic partnerships. Prof. Dr. Şanlıdağ remarked, “Sports is not merely about winning or losing; it is about solidarity, friendship, and one of the most powerful connections that unites people”, emphasizing that it is our collective duty to preserve the memory of Osman Çetintaş and others who have dedicated themselves to sports.
“Possible to Protect Oneself Against Disaster Through Knowledge, Education and Science”
In his video message, IZTECH Rector Prof. Dr. Yusuf Baran expressed his gratitude for the invitation and discussed Osman Çetintaş’s contributions to both the men’s and women’s volleyball teams at IZTECH. Prof. Dr. Baran also spoke about the earthquake disaster, noting that the university lost six students and has built a memorial on campus in their honor. Prof. Dr. Baran highlighted that protecting against natural disasters is possible through knowledge, education, and science. He mentioned that the loss of Osman Çetintaş and the Champion Angels has left a profound impact and thanked all those who contributed to organizing the event.
Following the opening speeches, Seran Çetintaş, sister of Osman Çetintaş, shared the backstory of her brother. Then a short video on Çetintaş’s life was screened. The sessions carried out within the scope of the program included speakers who are experts in their fields sharing their knowledge and experiences and, discussing the academic and strategic aspects of sports.
Moderated by Prof. Dr. Uğur Ulaş Dağlı and Prof. Dr. Mehtap Tiryakioğlu, the first session which focused on sports, education and leadership, hosted Giovanni Guidetti, who was the Head Coach of the Türkiye Women’s Volleyball National Team from 2017 to 2022 and is now the Head Coach of the Vakıfbank Sports Club Women’s Volleyball Team, Sports Science Expert Prof. Dr. H. Ulaş Yavuz, and Aydınlık Newspaper Columnist and Volleyball Aktüel Editor-in-Chief Savaş Eskigülek. During this session, information was shared about Osman Çetintaş’s athlete personality and character, how his education shaped his athletic identity, and his contributions to Famagusta, renowned as a volleyball city, and to the sport of volleyball. Three distinguished speakers also shared their experiences and insights on education and leadership, using their own careers as a foundation to engage with the participants.
A Heartfelt Participation for Giovanni Guidetti
Giovanni Guidetti, one of the most notable participants of the event, who was the Head Coach of the Türkiye Women’s Volleyball National Team from 2017 to 2022 and currently leads the Vakıfbank Sports Club Women’s Volleyball Team, attended the event at EMU to honor Osman Çetintaş’s memory. Guidetti made a strong impression with his insights on sports and leadership. Reflecting on the academic and strategic aspects of sports, he highlighted that the core of leadership is hard work, perseverance, and discipline.
On the other hand, the second session moderated by Prof. Dr. Mehtap Malkoç featured those who were close to Osman Çetintaş and their feelings and thoughts about him, reflecting on his contributions to academia and sports, his character, and the lasting marks he left, all remembered through emotional moments.
At the end of the Prof. Dr. Kılıç and Prof. Dr. Şanlıdağ presented appreciation plaques to Guidetti, Prof. Dr. H. Yavuz and Eskigülek for their contributions. Guidetti presented a plaque to Osman Çetintaş’s family.