Sport at the University of Birmingham
Discover UoB’s vibrant sport scene, from facilities to inclusive clubs and campus leagues - there’s something for everyone to stay active and connected.
When you think of the University of Birmingham, our excellence in research, strong industrial partnerships and the iconic clock tower ‘Old Joe’ all spring to mind. What might not spring to mind immediately (until you experience it through our on campus open days) is just how fantastic our sports facilities and sporting cultures are! Whether you play a sport that involves your hands, your feet, your rackets or your sticks, I can promise you that there is something for everyone when it comes to sports here at the University of Birmingham.
UoB sport
First things first, I believe an introduction is in order. I’m Jack, a 2nd year Film & Creative Writing Student, and I play campus league football here at the university. Social sports/ campus league is a bit like Sunday League; you’re just there for the laugh! The university provides campus league games, where you and your friends can play other societies within the university for the following sports:
- Football (11-a-side and 6-a-side)
- Basketball
- Hockey
- Netball
There is still a plethora of social clubs run by students at the university such as UoB Cric Soc (Europe's largest university social cricket club) and UoB tennis. However, if you’re looking for that step up in competition (and in quality) and feel that you’ve got what it takes to represent the university in your chosen sport, then we have a university squad for pretty much every sport you can think of! These teams compete in BUCs (British Universities & Colleges Sport) against other universities, so if you think you could lead UoB to sporting glory, simply search “uob...” and then the sport of your choice on Instagram for more information about all of the amazing sports clubs right here in Birmingham.
Not only do we have a wide array of clubs, but we have an even wider range of facilities for you to take advantage of during your time at university. You will become very quickly acquainted with UoB Sport& Fitness, who provide an on-campus gym, a smaller Tiverton gym right in the heart of second year housing and a brand-new gym on The Vale! The campus Sport & Fitness building is home to an Olympic length swimming pool, and a gigantic sports hall suited to basketball, netball, volleyball and much more! We also have squash courts, facilities that accommodate dance and gymnastics, and even a built in Costa Coffee that provides a view of the swimming pool! Our friendly Sport & Fitness staff are always on hand to help with any questions or queries you may have about sport at the university!
My experience of staying fit at university
Playing a sport at any standard at university is an amazing way to make friends. My closest friends at university are from my campus league football team, and my university experience wouldn’t be half as good if it wasn’t for playing sports at UoB! Furthermore, it can be a great release mentally for those pressure points when you're busy with your course. There have been many times when a simple kick about with my friends at six-a-side has been just the break I need before a big study session in the library. I have found sports at UoB to help me maintain good mental health, and with their being so much to get involved in I assure you that you will never be bored getting involved.
How to get involved
Whether you were born with a ball at your feet, or have an interest in boxing, or maybe you want to push yourself outside of your comfort zone; getting involved in sports at the University of Birmingham has never been easier. Make sure to come along to the sports fair during Fresher's week to find the sport that is right for you, or message the UoB sports teams' social media. There is a very open sporting culture at UoB, where everyone is welcome to get involved! It’s all about putting yourself out there!
So, you’ve had your acceptance letter, you’re all moved in, and you’re ready to get involved? Then make sure to attend the sports fair and find the right club for you! It was one of the best decisions I made in my university life, and in doing so I have made life-long mates. Who knows? In a few short months, that very easily could (and will) be you!