On Wednesday 20th of March, over 500 students headed to  Greenwich University’s Avery Hill Campus to join in Varsity 2024 which was delivered in collaboration by LSBU Active, South Bank Students Union and Greenwich Students Union. Over 10 sports were on offer throughout the day including taster sports giving LSBU students the opportunity to try a new sport or activity they may have never previously taken part in. There was also a social hangout space where non-competitive sport and activity was offered for students to come together, providing a safe space for South Bank and Greenwich students to interact with their peers. LSBU students came together to support each other throughout the day, all proudly representing LSBU, whether this was in a competitive fixture, social event or as a spectator.

For many, the varsity event is the highlight of their year as it gives students access to opportunity to build relationships and develop social connectedness, take part in a range sport and physical activity opportunities developing their good health and wellbeing and enhance their student experience by celebrating together. The power of sport brought students together from many different backgrounds. This was something prevalent on the day, with Emdad Shar, 3rd year School of Business, president of the Bangladeshi Society, and Cricket Club leader, saying:

“The best part about Varsity is the diversity and inclusion with all the sports clubs playing and this is the first time having cricket at Varsity. So far we are doing well, we are batting first and have a decent amount of runs”

Taking part in sport at LSBU is about more than just the training and fixtures, it gives students the opportunity to be part of an enriching community, making friends for life and supporting each other through University.

When asked whether they would recommend joining women’s basketball club, Elisha Dawes, 1st year, School of Law and Social Sciences, and Kamaya Nelson-Clayton, 1st year, School of Arts and Creative Industries said:

“One hundred percent! Once you get to know everyone, we’re basically like sisters”

A final word on Varsity from Daniel Goldhill, 5th year, School of Built Environment and Architecture and Men’s rugby captain:

“The best thing about varsity is having the whole team together for the whole day, we are all here, all socialising and all having fun. Everyone is coming down to support the final of the rugby later it will be a big atmosphere and I’m well excited”