DMU and UOL prepare as Varsity approaches

De Montfort University and the University Of Leicester are preparing to go head-to-head in their annual Varsity fixtures.

For the past 23 years, Varsity has been a major part of both universities' calendars.

The Varsity fixtures have been announced, so preparations have begun to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Head of DMU Sport Fiona Dick said: “The planning started in July with meetings every month to make sure every team could take part.”

The Varsity series will take place between Wednesday, March 19, and Sunday, March 23.

Over the busy week, 41 fixtures will take place with sports ranging from rowing to archery, giving all students the chance to take part.

“For those five days, we expect highs and lows, but it will be an emotional journey, which is what I find exciting about sport,” Fiona added.

DMU has not won a Varsity series, with UOL dominating for the past 23 years.

Despite DMU's poor record, the main aim of Varsity is for the students to create memories no matter the result.

One example is the rugby event held at Welford Road, which gives students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play at the stadium.

“The aim is always to win, but as equal as a win, the most important thing is that students enjoy Varsity,” Fiona said.

Varsity creates brilliant moments for students yearly as they play for bragging rights in the city.

This brings so much tension to the games as both sides desperately want to win.

The men’s thirds football last year went down to penalties which became a great spectacle.

“All eleven players from both teams took penalties, which eventually ended in us winning. I try to be unbiased, but as a pure moment, that was unbelievable,” Fiona added.

For more information and a complete list of fixtures, visit the DMU sport website.