Buckinghamshire New University has won the annual Varsity fixture against the University of Roehampton 10.5 points to 8.5 points, holding aloft the Roebuck Trophy.

The contest takes place annually across a range of sports and around 900 students from Bucks New University and the University of Roehampton took part, both competing and spectating.

Charlie Cotton, Vice President Student Involvement for Bucks New University’s Students’ Union, said it was an ‘incredible day’.



He added: “All teams gave everything they could and the spectators really helped by supporting our teams and helping make that difference.

“There was so much institutional pride shown across the whole day and I was so thrilled to have taken part in the final fixture bringing that trophy back to Bucks.”

Bucks New University began the event in a strong position having already secured wins in events held prior to the day, in men’s futsal and dance, putting the University 2-1 ahead.

A total of 16 fixtures were played across the day with wins for Bucks New University in men’s swimming, women’s hockey, women’s basketball, men’s volleyball, men’s rugby and in three of the men’s football fixtures, with a draw in women’s swimming where we gained a half point.

Being in a position for the final fixture, where both sides would have drawn, men’s rugby dealt brilliantly with the pressure to secure victory, holding off Roehampton scoring a try in the final minutes of the game, with a win of 29-24, and securing overall victory for the University.
 

It was the first time Bucks had won the competition since 2016 and also the first time away with the Roebuck Trophy returning back.
 

Bucks New University was led by women's captain Alanah Walters, who studies BSc (Hons) Police Studies with Criminological Psychology, and men's captain Riadh Bouzida, who studies BA (Hons) Sport Business Management.
 

The Sam Woods Shield, for the male player of the day, was awarded to Bucks New University student Pablo Latorre Martinez, who studies BA (Hons) Sports Marketing, for his outstanding contribution as goalkeeper for the men’s first team football. The Natalie Tucker shield, for the female player of the day, was awarded to a student from the University of Roehampton.
 

Professor Nick Braisby, Vice-Chancellor of Bucks New University, said: “We are very proud of all the students who represented the University and their great team of supporters, and I would like to extend my congratulations to everyone at Bucks Students' Union for making the day such a success. 
 

“I was delighted to be at Roehampton to enjoy the atmosphere, and was proud to see the supporters there from Bucks New University, who all showed great pride in their University and their fellow students.
 

“I saw the final match when the University secured the trophy and it was a wonderful moment which I am sure everyone involved will cherish.”
 

For a full rundown of results go to the Bucks Students’ Union website.