“For me, college sport sums up what university is all about: friendships, opportunities, confidence and the memories you make along the way.“

One of the main reasons I chose to study at the University of York was its college system and the opportunity to play college sport. I loved the idea of being able to play competitive sport alongside my degree each week and meet people from outside of my course. One of the best things about college sport is how easy it is to get involved with through the Students’ Union.

There are so many different teams and ability levels which means there’s definitely something for everyone. This makes the college sport environment really positive and welcoming, which I love. It has become one of the biggest parts of my university experience, and I honestly couldn’t imagine York without it.

Finding my feet and making friends

“The friendships you build are amazing, and your college really does become like a family away from home.”

In my first year, I played hockey, football and touch rugby for my college, and later joined the summer league netball team. College sport made settling into university so much easier, especially as a fresher when I didn’t really know anyone, joining a team meant I immediately had people to spend my time with. The friendships you build are amazing, and your college really does become like a family away from home. The older students are people you can look up to and rely on, and there is always someone to turn to or have a laugh with.

Being part of a team also gives you a reason to get out of your flat, stay active and socialise, with training sessions, matches and socials giving you something to look forward to every week.

Trying new sports and finding my place

“I love having both experiences: university sport brings its own challenges and expectations, while college sport gives me that extra sense of belonging.”

One of the best things about college sport is being able to play as many sports as you like for your college, without having to choose just one. Alongside hockey, I started playing football and touch rugby, which I had never played before. Touch rugby has been such a fun way to try something new, and everyone was incredibly welcoming.

The range of teams and standards means you can be as competitive as you want, or simply give something a go for fun. I also play university hockey, which gives me the opportunity to compete at a different level and travel to away fixtures. I love having both experiences: university sport brings its own challenges and expectations, while college sport gives me that extra sense of belonging. I absolutely love to represent my college, competing against other teams and meeting new people who you might never otherwise have met.

Taking on a leadership role

Sport had made such a difference to my own experience at York that in November of my first year, I decided to run for Head of Sport for Constantine College. I wanted other people to have the same opportunities to make friends, build confidence and feel part of a community that I did. I was lucky enough to be successful, and it has been one of the most rewarding opportunities university has given me. As Head of Sport, I attend meetings with other college Heads of Sport, help organise trainings, and host events such as the Spring Sports Awards.

It has developed my leadership, communication and organisational skills, as well as teaching me how to work with different people and bring a community together. These are all valuable employability skills, and having the experience on my CV is a bonus. However, my favourite part is getting to know so many people and being a familiar face that others can approach. I love talking to people, helping them get involved and making sure everyone feels welcome. I also definitely bleed pink, so representing Constantine means a lot to me!

Getting even more involved in second year

Now in my second year, I am President of Constantine Football, Captain of Constantine Hockey and Social Secretary of Heslington East Rugby. It is a lot to balance alongside my degree, but I do it because I genuinely love it. I enjoy helping people learn a sport, watching them develop in confidence and being someone that teammates can rely on. From running fun training sessions in the rain to organising socials, I love being involved and seeing people enjoy themselves. Being on sports committees has pushed me to take responsibility, make decisions and communicate effectively. It has also shown me how rewarding it is to help create the kind of experience that made such a difference to me when I first arrived.

The memories that make it special

Some of my favourite university memories have come from college sport. Last year, Heslington East Rugby competed in a home Varsity against Durham, which was an incredible experience. With everyone wearing face paint and ribbons, the atmosphere was amazing, and we all had the best day together. I also had the opportunity to referee the women’s football Varsity, which was a really cool experience too. Competing in Roses for both hockey and football was another highlight, especially seeing everyone come out to support the teams with signs and so much energy. These events show how much sport at York means to people and how it brings the whole community together. It is about so much more than just the matches themselves.

Source: York SU (University of York Students’ Union) Photography

Why York has been the right choice for me

For me, college sport sums up what university is all about: friendships, opportunities, confidence and the memories you make along the way. It has helped me find my place at York, given me the chance to try sports I had never considered and encouraged me to take on leadership roles I might not otherwise have had the chance to. I chose York partly because of its sport, and it has exceeded my expectations. If sport is a big part of your life, York offers so much more than the chance to keep playing, it really gives you the opportunity to make university feel like home.

Learn more about College Sport and the University of York Students’ Union.