Leeds Varsity Marks 20 Years of University Sporting Rivalry

Annual tournament between University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University returns in April

The Leeds Varsity, an annual sporting event between the University of Leeds (UoL) and Leeds Beckett University (LBU), is set to celebrate its 20th edition this year. Scheduled to take place from Monday 27 April to Wednesday 29 April, the event culminates with a rugby finale at the AMT Headingley Stadium.

Origins and Growth of Leeds Varsity

Leeds Varsity began in 2004 as a single rugby match between the two universities. However, the sporting rivalry between UoL and LBU dates back much further, with the first rugby match between the institutions held in 1976. Over the years, the event has expanded significantly, now featuring over fifty fixtures across a variety of sports.

For more than a decade, Leeds Beckett Bears dominated the Varsity scoreline, but the University of Leeds Gryphons secured their first win in 2018. Since then, the Gryphons have enjoyed further success, including a notable victory in the previous year’s tournament.

Community Focus and The Pledge

In 2008, Leeds Beckett University highlighted the importance of passion, pride, and friendship in the competitive matches hosted by the University of Leeds. This ethos has since been formalised into The Pledge, a set of guidelines aimed at fostering positive relationships within the local community and encouraging respect for local people and spaces during Varsity events.

George the Gryphon and Other Traditions

The University of Leeds is represented by its mascot, George the Gryphon, a mythical creature symbolising strength and courage with the head of an eagle and the body of a lion. The mascot is a key part of the event’s identity, alongside Leeds Beckett’s Beckett Bear. Anecdotally, the original George costume went missing during stadium redevelopment and is rumoured to be buried beneath the North Stand of the new arena.

Wide Range of Sporting Fixtures

While rugby remains a highlight, Leeds Varsity features a broad array of sports including ice hockey, netball, and football. Leeds University Union (LUU) supports numerous sporting societies that participate in the tournament, providing opportunities for many students to compete and spectate. Some events require tickets, which are available online, while others are open to all.

Notable Facts and Impact

• In 2015, the Varsity rugby match sold over 15,000 tickets, surpassing attendance figures for a Rugby Football Union game held on the same day.
• At one point, Varsity generated higher social media engagement than the final of The Great British Bake Off.
• Until 2022, Varsity was held in late autumn, marking the start rather than the end of the academic year.
• Team shirts have evolved from black and white to colourful designs promoting a friendly rivalry among fans.

Students have described Varsity as a highlight of their university experience, noting the strong sense of community and atmosphere the event creates. The tournament continues to play a significant role in student life at both universities, fostering pride and camaraderie through sport.