RWTH Galaball 2019 powered by Sparkasse Aachen
Last Saturday, November 2, over 800 guests flocked to the Eurogress for a highly distinguished event. At the RWTH Gala Ball presented by Sparkasse Aachen, which was organized by the RWTH Aachen University Sports Center (HSZ), a colorful and enthusiastic crowd glid across the dance floor.
The Gala Ball is the highlight of the university calendar in Aachen. Before the start of the event proper, the rector’s reception took place in the fireplace room of the neighboring Pullman Quellenhof Hotel. There, Prof. Dr. Rüdiger, Rector of RWTH Aachen presented RWTH’s newly earned title of excellence. He also reported on the plans for RWTH’s upcoming anniversary year, which will take place next year under the motto”150 Years of RWTH – Learning, Researching, Doing”. This year he, for the second time, opened the dance floor with a waltz with his wife. He described the Gala Ball as the “melting pot of RWTH”, explaining that this is the special thing about the event.
The head of the University Sports Center, Peter Lynen, is of the opinion that excellence at university and in university sports are inextricably linked. University sport serves as a balance to demanding everyday university life and promotes the social communication and integration of students. “University sport brings out the best in students.”, says Peter Lynen.
This sentiment was seconded by Prof. Dr. Rüdiger, who highlighted that “university sport gives students the opportunity to be excellent.”
The varied show performances were a particular cause for emotion at the Gala Ball. According to Susanne Wiese, representative for ballroom dances at the HSZ, the various show performances are, together with the cheerful moderation and accompanying band, a highlight of the event. The Aachen Rockets cheerleaders represented a stunning contrast to the classic dance styles of the dancing couple of Sara Wagner and Michael Hesse of the formation group Aachen Düsseldorf.
For many students the Gala Ball provides a great setting to have a go at dancing. In order to be well prepared for dance evening, students, as well as guests and sponsors, had the opportunity to learn the basics in various courses. Susanne Wiese, representative for ballroom dance, runs courses for beginners, as well as more advanced dancers, at the HSZ. The over 150 students on the waiting list can attest to the popularity of these among members of the university.
For nine years now, Sparkasse Aachen has been supporting the Gala Ball. Dr. Christian Burmester, deputy chairman of Sparkasse Aachen, explains this support with the bank’s desire to give something back to the region. The Gala Ball reaches many young people, who are thereby supported in their everyday lives and rewarded for their continued commitment.
The various performances and outstanding live music, as well as this year’s particularly sublime balloon grape, ensured an unforgettable evening for the guests. Into the small hours of the morning, the Eurogress was host to a jovial atmosphere and enthusiastic dance.
Further information can be found online under: rwth-galaball.de