Varsity 2026: In Conversation With Ice Hockey

This is Varsity 2026.

We spoke to Leeds Beckett and the University of Leeds Men’s Ice Hockey teams.

A sport growing in popularity

In recent years, interest in Ice Hockey has grown exponentially. Both societies described the 2026 Winter Olympics and the release of Heated Rivalry as undeniable factors in the ‘massive growth’ and uptake of the sport on a worldwide and university level.

With the University of Leeds supporters stand already entirely sold out, and Women’s Ice Hockey Societies growing bigger than ever before, university ice hockey is definitely heading for an exciting future.

There’s no doubt that Varsity 2026 will be heated for these teams!

Playing at Leeds Knights

This Varsity is extremely exciting, as we’ll see the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett face off at the Leeds Knights’ home stadium- to a sell out crowd!

Both teams described the opportunity to play at Knights a “huge privilege” and a “massive opportunity” for their players. With “big crowds and lots of people,” it will be a game to remember.

A University of Leeds player described moving to Leeds as “very exciting” due to Ice Hockey being such a popular sport in Northern England, with note to Leeds Knights and especially Sheffield Steelers- who dominate the city of Sheffield as arguably one of their biggest sporting clubs. Whilst many team members also play outside of Leeds, the opportunity to take part in Varsity is like no other.

“It’s great to get to wear Beckett purple”, both teams expressed how exciting it is to “represent the university” whilst playing the sport that they love.

Preparing for Varsity

Varsity prep for Leeds’ Ice Hockey teams consists of a lot of continuous preparation, making sure that they are consistent and strong ahead of the biggest rivalry of the season.

And of course, “bringing the suit out!” because what is Varsity if not a time to celebrate. Not forgetting the opportunity to “embarrass your rival team.”

We can’t wait!