On Sunday 26 April, students from Ustinov College and the Durham University International Study Centre (ISC) came together for their first Varsity event at Maiden Castle. The day focused on taking part, trying something new and bringing people together through college sport. It showed how sport at Durham supports students of all abilities, not just those competing at the highest level.
Students played nine sports across the day, including badminton, football, hockey, basketball, table tennis, netball, tennis and volleyball. Most events were mixed, helping more people get involved and feel welcome.
Matches ran throughout the day, with a friendly and supportive atmosphere across the site. In a few fixtures, staff joined student teams so that everyone who wanted to play could take part. This helped ensure full programmes and kept the focus on inclusion rather than results.
The Varsity helped strengthen links between Ustinov College and the ISC, which supports foundation and pre‑masters students from a wide range of countries and backgrounds.
For many ISC students, this was their first experience of a Varsity-style event. Playing sport together offered an easy way to meet new people, feel part of college life and build confidence outside the classroom.
While Ustinov is still developing its sporting offer, events like this show how colleges can build inclusive communities through low‑pressure, welcoming opportunities to have a go and learn new skills.
Sport gave students a break from academic study and a way to connect socially. Taking part helped students build teamwork, confidence and friendships, while encouraging them to engage more fully with College and University life.
I’m incredibly proud of the Ustinov College Graduate Common Room for leading this Varsity. It shows what students can achieve when they are supported to create inclusive, meaningful activities that bring people together.
The first Ustinov College vs ISC Varsity showed how collegiate sport can offer something for everyone, whatever their experience or ability. There is strong potential for the event to grow in future years, giving even more students the chance to take part, develop skills and feel part of our wider community.
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