ASU News

The Adyghe State University football team is currently finalizing its preparations for the upcoming season. Head coach Anzor Gonezhuk shared insights into the team’s recent performance and outlined its objectives for 2026.

The ASU football team was reestablished in 2023 through the initiative of Ruslan Akhtaov, Director of the Institute of Physical Education and Judo. In a short span of time, the team not only returned to active competition but also emerged as one of the strongest student teams in the country.

In 2025, the team experienced one of its most successful seasons to date. ASU students secured silver medals at the Adygea Republic Championship and achieved remarkable success in the National Student Football League (NSFL): winning all three of their matches with a combined score of 8-2 and earning first place. This victory propelled the team into the prestigious Division B.

"The NSFL press service described our performance as a perfect tournament," comments Anzor Gonezhuk. "Our current goal is to secure a place in the elite division and demonstrate that ASU can compete with any university in the country."

The team's roster is updated annually, making room for new talent as graduates move on. Today, the university’s pride is showcased by students from a diverse range of disciplines—including physical education and judo, the Faculty of Law, aspiring IT specialists, and students from Moscow State University of the Humanities, History, and Technology. The talent search is ongoing.

"Roster rotation is inevitable, but the coaching staff's experience enables us to smooth out any rough edges," the coach remarks. "The key is to maintain team spirit and provide young players, who are eager to prove themselves, with the opportunity they deserve."

The training process is carefully designed with the students' educational activities in mind. On the field, the team consistently maintains its attacking style, which has become its signature approach.  

"We always strive to deliver the maximum amount of emotion to our fans," explains Anzor Gonezhuk. "That's why we've adopted an attacking style, regardless of the opponent. We also tailor our tactical strategies to each game, considering factors such as the opponent, the players' conditions, the weather, and other variables."

The primary goal for the upcoming season is to win the NSFL Division B and earn promotion to a more elite division. In addition, the team is competing in the Winter Championship of the Republic of Adygea, where they are currently among the top contenders. Preparations are also underway for the Summer Championship of the Republic. As a member of the NSFL, the team will participate in away matches in Yevpatoriya, Smolensk, and Tver. The league's final tournament is scheduled to take place in Maykop.

"Join us for exhilarating, spectacular, and unforgettable football matches! We warmly invite all fans, teachers, and students to cheer us on. – Anzor Gonezhuk"

The next game will take place this Sunday, March 1st, at 1:00 PM at Yunost Stadium. Admission is free!

Follow the team's progress on the national team's Telegram channel: https://t.me/agumaikop