The History of Varsity

Leeds Varsity is the annual tournament where the University of Leeds (UoL) and Leeds Beckett University (LBU) go head-to-head at the biggest sporting event of the university calendar.

This year, Varsity will celebrate it’s 20th Edition, and will take place from Monday 27 April- Wednesday 29 April, with the incredible Rugby Finale taking place at the AMT Headingley Stadium.

The event was created in 2004 and began as a simple rugby fixture between the two universities, and becomes even more integral to Leeds student life each year. But why?

Varsity Through the Years

For over a decade, the Leeds Beckett Bears have dominated the scoreline. The event grew from one to over fifty fixtures during this time, with the University of Leeds Gryphons gaining their first win in 2018. Since then, the Gryphons have triumphed! After an exciting win last year, they’re heading into Varsity with confidence.

Varsity is one of the most exciting and celebrated events, with students enjoying huge afterparties and festivities year after year.

Though the first official Varsity took place in 2004, this wasn’t the beginning of University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett’s sporting rivalry. Their first Rugby match against one another took place in 1976, almost 30 years prior!

In 2008, Leeds Beckett said that the “competitive action hosted by the University of Leeds was punctuated with passion, pride and friendship,” which has now become The Pledge- a series of “promises” and guidelines that ensure that community relationships are put at the heart of Varsity, and teaches students to stay positive and understanding of local people and spaces.

George the Gryphon

No sports game is complete without an iconic mascot! While Leeds Beckett boasts the “Beckett Bear,” the University of Leeds have “George the Gryphon.” George is a powerful mythical creature with the head of an eagle and the body of a lion, representing both strength and courage, making it the perfect animal to represent the team.

The initial George costume went missing during redevelopments at the stadium, and it is rumoured that he was buried in what became the North Stand of the new arena…

Varsity Is…

So much more than the Rugby Finale!

Leeds University Union (LUU) have countless incredible sporting societies that are involved in Varsity,all deserving to share their moment with the rest of the student body.

Some events are non-reservable, where others are ticketed and available to purchase online.

This year, the lineup is packed! With so many different games to watch and enjoy, including ice hockey, netball, and football, this is your chance to make the most of Varsity!

*disclaimer: fixtures are subject to change

Varsity Facts

In 2015, the Varsity Rugby game sold over 15,000 tickets, which was higher than a Rugby Football Union game hosted on the same day.

One year, Varsity was trending higher than The Great British Bake-Off Final on Twitter.
Until 2022, the event was hosted in late Autumn, beginning the academic year rather than finishing it!
Team shirts used to be black and white, but were changed to promote the friendly #wearyourcolours rivalry between the fans.

No matter what, everyone is welcome at Varsity.

One University of Leeds student said, “Despite not being someone massively into sports, Varsity was a true highlight of my university Experience. There was a great atmosphere, and a real community, I would 100% recommend.”

The importance and history of Varsity lies in our students, and passion, pride and friendship make Varsity so remarkable for helping the student community love their time at Leeds.