Picture of UOB athlete running alongside Ivy League competitorCategoriesEvents Student News

Welcoming x4 Ivy League Athletics Teams To Compete On Our Track

Welcoming x4 Ivy League Athletics Teams To Compete On Our Track

Last week we had a once in a lifetime exchange visit from 4 Ivy League Universities to re-start a partnership which dates back to 1962.

 

The University of Birmingham has a strong relationship that dates back nearly 70 years with 4 of the most prestigious Ivy League Universities: Harvard, Yale, Penn & Cornell.

 

On a 4-year cycle, this includes visits to Birmingham from pairs of universities at a time, staying with Birmingham student-athletes for 3-4 days during which we compete against them in an Athletics Match, host a formal dinner and organise some tourist experiences for their students and staff.

 

Athletes and staff from the American Universities were all on campus on Saturday 24 June for a historic Athletics Match at the University of Birmingham Track in a double-header match against our very own UoB Athletics Club.

Picture of UOB Athletics team in group photo smiling on Athletics track after match

This spectacularly coincided with a University Open Day, displaying the very best that Sport has to offer here at Birmingham with parents and prospective students able to witness first-and our vibrant community of student – athletes engaged in an exchange that is unique to Birmingham.

 

In the match itself, Birmingham were victorious over the combined Harvard & Yale team retaining the Bob Ashwood Cup for another 4 years!

 

Unfortunately the Penn & Cornell team, edged out the Birmingham team in the final few events by a mere 8 points to keep the Professor Michael Hayes Trophy stateside.

2 men running towards finish line- one from UOB
Women's Relay team passing the baton while running

We were absolutely delighted that Professor Hayes, now 93 years old, who founded the exchange whilst an academic here at Birmingham in the 1960s was able to come over from his Limerick home, to attend the weekend’s festivities – speaking with great fondness of the exchange with all student-athletes, coaches and alumni in attendance.

 

 

The exchange was formally kicked off with a Welcome Reception in Lapworth Museum, hosted by Stephen Jarvis and supporting words from Yale Director of Athletics, David Shoehalter and our own Birmingham Athletics Presidents, Imogen Shepperd and Josh Woods.

Picture of man running at speed

David Shoehalter:

 

‘We absolutely love coming to Birmingham, you guys always give our team such a great reception. It’s been too long since our great schools have been able to do this exchange and we can’t wait to have you visit us again next year.’

 

Professor Micheal Hayes also had these words for all the athletes, at the end of Athletics Match on Saturday:

 

‘Sport is one of the strongest vehicles for learning and setting you up for the next stage of life. And I believe, that your coaches are some of the greatest educators in this pursuit; I firmly believe this. Thank you to all your coaches for continuing to support this fantastic exchange – as I know you will look back on this week for many years to come with immense fondness’

 

Athletes sat on the track
UoB female athlete throwing shotput

Finally, on Saturday evening we hosted a banquet at Staff House, for all our incoming Penn & Cornell visitors (who arrived on Saturday for the Match). This banquet for 220 attendees fully funded by the Athletics Club, saw our student hosts sitting with the 60 strong American visitors as well as VIP guests from previous exchanges and 3 tables of Birmingham Athletics Club alumni, who all competed in the exchange back in the 1980s.

This is only one of many incredible events that our Athletics team get involved in- there have been endless achievements across the year. Want to find out more about our largest sport club? Explore via the button below.

ATHLETICS CLUB

Photo creds: Nathan Styles Porter, Didi Okoh and Zach Bridgeland.

Selfie of Kacper and Ross at the top of a mountain with the sunset in the backgroundCategoriesEvents

150+ miles in 20 hours | The Longest Day Challenge

150+ miles in 20 hours | The Longest Day Challenge

On Sunday 11 June, two of our UoB Sport and Fitness Operations staff took on an incredible challenge.

 

Duty Manager Kacper, and Senior Duty Manager Ross decided to complete ‘The Longest Day’ challenge as an opportunity to fundraise for British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK, causes close to both of their hearts.

As one of the most intense one day physical challenges, Ross and Kacper underwent six months of training in the lead up to make sure they were as prepared as possible.

Image of climbing rocky cliffs

What is the longest day challenge?

Taking inspiration from the “The Longest Day!” YouTube video documentary from Global Triathlon Network channel, the following activities have to be completed within a tight 20-hour window.

1) Walking the 8-mile Ranger Path to the mountain peak of Snowdon.

2) Cycling 39 miles from Snowdon to Cadair Idris.

3) Walking the 5.5-mile Pony Path loop to the mountain peak of Cadair Idris.

4) Cycling 101 miles from Cadair Idris to Pen-y-Fan.

5) Walking the 4-mile Path to the mountain peak of Pen-Y-Fan.

 

‘After a gruelling 20 hours, we have successfully completed our fundraising endeavour in support of the British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research. We have experienced many highs and lows both in relentless rain and scorching sun. Starting at 4am and finishing at midnight, we have conquered three of the highest peaks in Wales and cycled through over half of the country to reach each mountain.’

Map of the 20 hour activities
Selfie of Kacper and Ross sat down next to bike

Kacper and Ross have already exceeded their optimistic fundraising goal of £1,000 and express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported them through the journey, both through encouragement and generous donations.

 

Want to support the cause? Donations to the just giving page will go a long way in aiding the ongoing efforts to combat heart disease and cancer, ultimately improving the lives of countless individuals.

Ready to take on your own challenge? Our facilities provide the perfect opportunity to train and build your stamina! Explore our memberships today.

MEMBERSHIPS
Text: BUCS awards shortlist announcedCategoriesEvents Student News

UoB Sport shortlisted for two 2023 BUCS Awards

UoB Sport shortlisted for two 2023 BUCS Awards

The University of Birmingham Sport celebrated making the 2023 BUCS awards shortlist for both the Special Recognition and Diversity and Inclusion categories.

BUCS Awards shortlist- Image of all shortlists for the special recognition awards including Georgia Pexton

This year’s Sports Awards Student Coach of the Year Georgia Pexton (Netball) makes up the final five in line to be named in the Special Recognition awards.

 

This award recognises an individual’s commitment to their club or sports department over their time at university, be it as a player, as a committee member or a volunteer. It is awarded to a final year student who have shown an outstanding contribution either through performance or participation.

 

Georgia has some brilliant achievements under her belt including: coaching for the Netball Women’s 5s team, managing the 6s, and taking 5s to a BUCS League Win, along with BUCS Conference Cup Finals.

Active Residences, which is a sport and exercise programme designed for UoB Students living in the University or part-owned accommodation, has also been shortlisted for an award in the Diversity & Inclusion category.

 

Offering a variety of classes, sports and activities to help support students to engage with sport, a win would mark a second award of the 2022/23 academic year as Active Residencies claimed the Team of Teams Award at the University’s Campus Services Awards.

The winners of the 2023 BUCS Awards will be announced on Thursday 13 July at the ceremony taking place at the University of Leeds.

 

If you’re looking to support Georgia & Active Residences, tickets are still available by clicking the button below!

BUCS AWARD TICKETS
Image of people balancing on one leg in yoga classCategoriesEvents Member News

International Yoga Day: Hear from our Instructors

 International Yoga Day: Hear from our Instructors

Wednesday 21 June 2023 is International Yoga day- and this year we wanted to mark the day by speaking to our dedicated yoga instructors to understand the overall benefits and aims of yoga.

Yoga is a holistic practice that originated in ancient India and encompasses various physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. It is both a philosophy and a set of practices aimed at achieving harmony and balance in the body, mind, and spirit. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit term “yuj,” which means to unite or join.

 

Yoga has a wide range of styles and practices, including Hatha yoga, Ashtanga yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Kundalini yoga, and many others. Each style may emphasize different aspects of yoga, but they all share the goal of integrating and balancing the various dimensions of the individual’s being.

HATHA/VINYASA FLOW YOGA

lots of people taking part in yoga class, bending forward and leaning on one leg

Helen loves teaching a slow Hatha/ Vinyasa flow style of yoga. It allows you to take time stretching, breathing and finding the best way to make yoga poses work for everyone, using options and choices throughout. It is ideal for beginners and anyone looking for a relaxed style of yoga, with calming music, a mix of lying, seated and standing poses, with relaxation and meditation to start and end.

Tracy is passionate about teaching vinyasa flow yoga. It is a dynamic and strengthening practice filled with plenty of opportunities to play with arm balances and inversions. Open to all levels, there’s always options to satisfy beginners and challenge more experienced practitioners. It is an empowering class designed to build up strength, flexibility and balance. Combining mindful movement and breath awareness, it also helps promote a sense of inner wellbeing.

Image of a guy stretching arms upwards

 

Rosanna love’s teaching classes that are accessible to everyone, whether you’re new to yoga or perhaps recovering from injury or even looking to supersize, if you’re feeling more adventurous. Coordinating breath with a flow of movement between poses as we work through the limbs of yoga, her classes are a great way to improve strength, flexibility, wellbeing and mindfulness.

Image of woman balancing on one leg

‘I specialise in yoga therapeutics to heal body, mind and spirit.’ – Lenora

Sarah is passionate that yoga is something that should be done with our bodies, and not to our bodies! Instead of trying to force ourselves into a perceived image of how a yoga posture should look, we should be questioning why and how we are moving, so that our practice is safe, sustainable and injury free. Whether you’re feeling sleepy or energetic, flexible or stiff, Sarah’s wake-up yoga is the perfect way to ease yourself into the day. Suitable for beginners and experienced yogis, all are welcome.

Image of yoga class with participants stretching legs and turning torso backwards

Whether you’re experienced at yoga, or you’ve never taken part in a yoga form before – here at Sport and Fitness we offer classes to suit all abilities in a supportive space! Explore the different types of yoga we offer and join a class!

YOGA CLASSES
Josie with completion bannerCategoriesEvents Student News

10 Marathons in 10 days for Project RED – S

10 Marathons in 10 days for Project RED – S

Third year Biomedical Science student and triathlete Josie Cox recently completed the 10 – in – 10 challenge to fundraise for a cause close to her heart. 

 

Last summer, Josie found herself struggling with an eating disorder, which had a massive impact on her mental and physical health. As someone who enjoys having goals to work towards and being proactive, she found it extremely difficult and overwhelming watching fellow UoB triathletes competing while having to take a step back to prioritise her recovery. 

Following several months of intense therapy and physical health check-ups, Josie began to improve and eventually overcame her eating disorder. Through sharing her own struggles and experience, Josie hopes to help others who may be going through something similar, and encourages people to reach out for help – something that took her a long time to do herself.

Josie taking selfie while running

WHAT IS RED – S?

 

RED – S (Relative energy deficiency in sport) is a syndrome that many haven’t come across before, and something that Josie wants to raise awareness around through her fundraising as something she faced.  It refers to athletes suffering from energy shortage, becoming unable to keep up with the demands of sport and exercise on top of daily bodily functions.

 

Although it’s not often spoken about, RED-S is a rapidly growing problem in sport and health consequences can be serious if the problem isn’t addressed early.

Preparing for the 10 – in – 10 challenge

 

Josie’s preparation involved a lot of low intensity running to get several hours on her feet as well as some back to back marathons to practice running on tired legs after having completed a long run the day before. Other than that, she was stepping into the unknown and was relying on mental stamina! She found it interesting how her body and mindset adapted throughout the challenge.

Josie posing with her friend
Group photo of those involved in RED-S challenge
Cycling element of the marathon

Ready set, go!

 

After the first few days, Josie was in a lot of muscular discomfort but no major pain. By the fourth marathon she was experiencing some pain in her right knee, having a sports massage to help ease the discomfort slightly to make it manageable. After day 5 or 6 she picked up a foot injury which was probably the most painful, but by this point she found her body starting to get into the routine of getting up early and running. 

 

Mentally, she found the 7th marathon in Derby the most challenging, after completing over half of the challenge, yet still being a way away from the finish line. 

 

Josie also faced physical obstacles including sheep fields and jumping over fences! Nevertheless, she thoroughly enjoyed the fun and challenging experience and has had a positive impact on athletes and individuals who may be struggling with disordered eating.

Raising money for RED-S

 

Josie has already exceeded her fundraising target of £1,000, and is extremely grateful for all the support from her friends and family. Donations directly funds RED-S Charities work of increasing awareness, prevention and recovery from RED-S.

 

If you feel inspired by Josie’s story and the mission of the RED-S charity, you can donate to Josie’s just giving page!

 

Interested in learning more about how to get involved in our Triathlon club? Check out the dedicated webpage below.

Image of Josie completing the challenge holding victory banner
UOB Triathlon
CategoriesEvents Student News

Celebrating our Sporting Superstars: Sports Awards Round-up

Celebrating our Sporting Superstars: Sports Awards Round-up

Students, staff and coaches across UB Sport enjoyed an evening of celebrations and recognition at the Sports Awards 2023! Introduced by Andy Alford, Director of Sport, the event was hosted by Helen Coy, Participation Development Manager, and Amy Preston, Club Development Manager.

 

With 13 different award categories including some new additions- it was brilliant to see so many sportspersons, clubs, and coaches being recognised for their sporting contributions across the year.

Read on for a breakdown of our winners!

Sports colours winners

SPORTS COLOURS

 

Sport Colours are non-performance-based and awarded to individuals based on a member’s contribution beyond their established role, going over and above for their club or for sport across the University. 

 

Presented by Carolyn Cutbill, Deputy Director of Sport.

 

Well done to Dani Ashwell and William Moss (Hockey), Georgia Pexton, Harriet Sanderson and Chloe Smith (Netball and Social Netball), Fin Proffitt (Athletics), Xinhe Xiong (Men’s Football) Lewis Keates, Will Bugg and Sophie Rollings (Rugby Union), Thomas Blake (Squash), and Zohaib Naqvee (Handball).

We then moved on announce our individual and team awards….

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

 

This Award recognises individuals who have committed themselves to a cause, activity, or event for the greater good of their club, University, or wider community. 

 

Presented by Jon Elsmore, Director of Student Affairs.

 

 Harriet Westlake won in this category, due to her dedication to the Politics Netball club, creating an inclusive and welcoming competitive community, organising the Campus League team, organising weekly matches against other universities, increasing participation from one team to two, and involving over 100 students in netball over the past two years.

PRIDE AWARD

 

This award acknowledges and celebrates the diversity and inclusion of sport within our clubs.

 

Presented by Adam Witt, BUCS Administrator.

 

The winner of this award was announced as the Sailing club, due to their work to reduce the cost barrier for members by paying for kit and allowing members to borrow, introducing accessible boat to cater for disabilities, and the captain of the club has worked with a local charity supporting young gang members, using sport as a tool for positive reinforcement.

CAMPUS LEAGUE TEAM OF THE YEAR

 

The Campus League Team of the Year award aims to recognise and celebrate the teams that best embody the Campus League ethos of participation, good sportsmanship and enjoyment of the game.

 

Presented by Beccy Hodson, Participation Development Officer.

 

Kinvig Hockey were crowned the winners, who have grown the team with new people across different year groups. They have help multiple socials, and are currently third in the league!

REGIONAL TEAM OF THE YEAR

The Regional Team of the Year award aims to celebrate the achievements of some of our stand-out University teams that compete on a regional level within BUCS.

 

Presented by Matt Bridge, Deputy Head of the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences.

 

Congratulations to Hockey Women’s 4s, who were selected due to their three wins acros BUCS Tier 2 League, BUCS Conference Cup Finals and EH National League.

CLUB OF THE YEAR

 

This award is based on the overall success of a club across a number of areas. This can include – but is not limited to – committee and/or performance achievements, developments and innovation within the club, member engagement and connection with the wider sporting community both in- and external to the university.

 

Presented by Chris Anthony, Head of Sport Development.

 

The Athletics club were awarded the well deserved title for their various accomplishments across the year. 

 

With over 25% of its 247 members medalling at competitions, over 365 BUCS points earned, multiple events attended and over 7500 hours completed for the Commonwealth Games 2022, it’s been an incredible year for the club!

GRADUATING SCHOLARS

Across the evening we also celebrated the achievements of our graduating scholars, and the impact they’ve had upon teams, clubs, and the University as a whole during their time with us. 

 

Millie Giglio- having played a pivotal leadership role within the Women’s Hockey Performance Squad, both on the BUCS Premier League and National League stages throughout her 4 years at Birmingham,  as well as the GB Elite Development Programme, 2021-22 UBSports’ Person of the Year Millie successfully captained the England U21 squad to a history-making bronze medal at the 2022 Junior World Cup.

 

Kira Rothwell – a firm fan favourite on the Vitality Netball Superleague scene that has continued to progress along the England Netball performance pathway. Consistently retaining her place on the prestigious England Roses Futures programme and gaining multiple selections to represent England during her time at the University, Kira’s been integral to the Netball 1s’ monumental rise up the BUCS rankings since enrolling at Birmingham 4 years ago.

 

Megan Richter – despite only joining the University in September for a one-year Masters in Cardiovascular Sciences, Megan has made the absolute most of her time at Birmingham, engaging fully with the support provided by the Performance Centre and Scholarship programme to prepare for and achieve a fantastic fourth place at the senior Para Triathlon World Championships.

 

Thomas Keen – coming in as European U18 800m Champion, Tom has continued to develop as an esteemed track athlete, claiming individual BUCS medals, international vests and even a British U20 record during his throughout his 5 years at Birmingham. This summer will see him break into the senior age category, after rounding out last season ranked 2nd in the 1500m in the U23 age group.

 

Sunni Jardine – the linchpin of the University’s Rugby Performance Squad, Sunni is the only player outside of the BUCS Superleague to be selected to represent England Students more than once. Ahead of graduating this summer, Sunni has signed a 2-year contract with a professional French team in Bordeaux.

 

Kiera Marshall – with a career high world ranking of 105, Kiera has not only successfully claimed 2 individual BUCS medals during her time at Birmingham – most notably the gold this year – but also recently led the Women’s Squash 1s to a commanding victory at this year’s BUCS Big Wednesday.

 

Stuart MacGregor – and last but certainly not least, with a career high world ranking of 129 and a hard-earned BUCS individual silver medal under his belt, Men’s Squash 1s’ long-standing captain Stuart MacGregor played an essential part in leading the team to its first Championship Team title since 2016.

Thank you to each of you for all that you’ve done for the University, Sport, the EDCAP scholarship programme and your Clubs during your time with us and we wish you all the very best for your future endeavours.

Millie Giglio headshot
Megan Richter headshot
Thomas Keen headshot

HALF BLUES

 

Half blues are awarded to those who have achieved either a BUCS individual medal or a BUCS Team Championship gold medal during the 2022-23 academic year.

 

Presented by Gary Bilham, Head of Philanthropy.

 

We saw 50 students across awarded their half blues across Athletics, Squash, Archery, Karate, Weightlifting, Swimming, Ultimate Frisbee and Rugby Union Women’s.

FULL BLUES

Full Blues are awarded to those individuals that have competed internationally at a senior championship and this year were awarded to: Andrew Stamp (Trampolining), Lily Walker (Hockey), Oliver Morgan (Swimming) and Megan Richter (Para-Triathlon) following their impressive progression and standard of performance on the senior stage.

STUDENT COACH OF THE YEAR

 

This award aims to recognise current students who are regarded as having made the most outstanding contribution to club sport through their role as a coach, working closely with their club committee to direct the development of the club and support members’ personal and performance development.

 

Presented by Florie Craddock, Sports Officer

Congratulations to Georgia Pexton, who has managed the Women’s 6s and coached the Women 5s leading to a BUCS League win, along with placing as runners-up in the BUCS Conference Cup Final.

COACH OF THE YEAR

The Coach of the Year award is for an individual who is regarded as having made the most outstanding contribution to club sport through their role as a coach.

 

Presented by Mark Burns, UB Sport’s Performance Centre Lead.

 

Mairi Kerin’s dedication to the Karate Club earnt her the top title, helping the club achieve an overall total of 10 BUCS individual medals and the club’s highest ever BUCS finish.

OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION

 

The Outstanding Contribution award celebrates outstanding contribution made by an individual towards the continued improvement of UoB Sport & Fitness and the instances in which they have gone beyond expectations.

 

Presented by Simon Bray, Director of Campus Services.

 

This year Cheerleading won the award, as a consistent contributor to wider UBSport events, performing at all super series and open days and being proactive in putting their names forward to take part in new events.

NATIONAL TEAM OF THE YEAR

The National Team of the Year award aims to recognise and highlight the stand-out successes of a select number of our University teams that compete on a national level within BUCS.

 

Presented by Luke Gunn, Head of Performance.

 

Well done to Squash Women’s 1s, who, for the first time in over ten years, claimed their first individual and Championship team title, as well as an individual bronze medal.

Lily walker action shot

Image provided by WorldSportsPics.

SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR

To finish the award ceremony, the Sportsperson of the year award was presented. This is the highest individual accolade awarded by the University of Birmingham, in recognition and celebration of the very highest sporting level. 

Presented by Cathy Gilbert, Head of External Relations, the nominees were: Lily Walker (Hockey), Andrew Stamp (Trampolining), Oli Morgan (Swimming), Lachlan Moorhead (Judo) and Will Barnicoat (Athletics).

 

Lily Walker was selected for a number of incredible reasons, most notably securing gold in the Commonwealth Games last year on campus!

Thank you to everybody who attended this event and made it so special! The Sports Awards always serve as an excellent reminder of just how much incredible sport and achievements take place across the year- and raise the bar for next year!

Event photo credits: Mark Assinder

CategoriesEvents

Swapping the desk for San Diego: Tom to represent Wales

Swapping the desk for San Diego: Tom to represent wales 

Meet Tom Porter, a staff member at the University of Birmingham who this June will represent Wales on the international lacrosse stage.

 

Competing in the World Championships in San Diego, California, he will join 30 of the best teams in the world across 11 days of fixtures.

 

A current Project Manager at the School of Engineering at the University, read his story below….

My Journey to Lacrosse

 

I first picked up a lacrosse stick at Loughborough University in 2013 having never previously heard of the sport. I found that I had a natural fit for the defensive position, and I played for 2 seasons during my time at Loughborough. However, upon graduating due to the lack of lacrosse in the Midlands at the time I left the sport for a couple of years. In 2018 I was part of a group of people who gathered in Nuneaton to see if it was possible to form a local lacrosse club.

 

This group of people would go on to become some of my best friends and we formed Nuneaton Lacrosse Club which now thrives with 2 men’s teams and a women’s team. I fulfil the role as the Club Captain at Nuneaton Lacrosse Club, and I am incredibly proud of the work we do to promote the sport in the Midlands.

My Journey to Wales

 

During 2018 the previous World Championships were held in Netanya, Israel. At the time a friend managed to secure a spot on the Wales Lacrosse team for those championships.

 

This ignited my desire to try out for my Country. In late 2018 I attended open trials for Wales Lacrosse and was successful at my first attempt in breaking into the Wales squad as a defender. I was a member of the Wales team that attended the Home Internationals tournament in 2019 and won that title beating England & Scotland.

I was then again successful in being selected for what we all thought was going to be the 2020 European Championships. However, Covid-19 had other plans and these games were postponed. It was a significantly challenging time, Wales Lacrosse is recognised as an elite sport by Sport Wales so we were able to continue training as lockdowns eased, but there was huge commitments to home workouts and Zoom meetings with teammates.

 

Finally in 2022 these games were rescheduled, and I went to the European Lacrosse Qualification Tournament in Poland. Wales won all 5 of our games in Poland and were the first European nation to earn their qualification spot at the World Championships. At this tournament I also scored my first points for Wales recording a goal and 2 assists across our games. During 2023 I have again represented Wales at the Home Internationals tournament, recording a victory against Scotland and narrowly loosing out on the title against England.

Now the Welsh team are on their way to the World Championships in San Diego, California. Where we will compete against 30 of the best teams in the world. Across 11 days of competition, we will face a tough Group B draw which sees Wales take on Uganda, France, Denmark & number 6 in the world ranked Japan. The top 2 countries from this group will carry on with chances to take the overall title of World Champions.

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