Varsity: The biggest uni sporting event

It may not be quite as big as the Olympics or World Cup, but Varsity is the biggest event in the university sporting calendar. Not familiar with this annual event? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading for a quick guide on the history of Varsity and what to expect once you’re at uni.

What is Varsity?

Varsity is probably the biggest sporting and social event in the university calendar. It’s a sports competition between two rival universities in which they compete in various events to become overall Varsity Champion, winning the coveted title, trophy and, more importantly, bragging rights.

Rival universities are normally based on geographical location, so they generally compete against the university just down the road. Each year universities take it in turn hosting the event or play on neutral ground.

How did it all start?

Depending on which university you speak to, some say Varsity began with the rivalry between Cambridge and Oxford with a cricket match in 1827. Others say it began with St Andrews and Edinburgh with a rugby match first held in the 1860s. Either way, these sporting competitions paved the way for other universities to compete once a year in a variety of sports, since becoming a much-loved tradition.

What's the most famous Varsity match?

The most famous is probably the Cambridge vs Oxford boat race. You may have seen it on the TV, as it’s the only publicly televised university Varsity match in the UK. However, if your university has a student-led TV channel (which Solent does), they will normally live stream yours meaning if you can't make it, you can still watch it.

What kind of sport is it?

Varsity sports matches could be a variety of things. From Ultimate Frisbee or darts, to rugby and even ice hockey. The general rule is, if both universities have enough players to compete in two opposing teams, the sport can be played in Varsity.

How can I get involved?

If you’re not competing, you can go and support! You can wear t-shirts, make banners and chant along with your university. Many universities will put on some transport to take you to and from the game if it’s held on your rival team’s campus. So, make sure you go along and get behind your team!

If playing is more your style, your team will select a Varsity team to go and compete, so make sure you join a sports team when you arrive. Check out our clubs and societies article.

Sport at Solent

While we’re on the topic, we would be silly not to give a shout out to sport at Solent.

With a state-of-the-art sports complex and celebrated Sport Excellence Programme, we’ve got a reputation for championing sporting stars of the future. But if competitive sport isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of opportunities to get active in a fun, informal way – just check out our sports teams.

Like most universities, we also offer discounted gym memberships, and access to injury and massage clinics, which don’t only help you, but develop the skills of our students. It’s a win-win.