Varsity

The History:

Sheffield Varsity began in 1997 when sporting teams from the city's two universities competed against each other in the first coordinated tournament of its kind. From there it snowballed, and now Sheffield Varsity is believed to be one of the biggest Varsity competitions in the UK.

Around 1,000 students from both Sheffield Hallam University & University of Sheffield take part in over 70 sporting events in venues across the city, cheered on by more than 15,000 spectators. Student athletes will take part in over 30 sports with everything from American Football to Sailing, Snowsports to Pool & Snooker. Sheffield Varsity is the city’s very own Olympic games, with the team scoring the most points overall claiming victory for the year.

For two weeks each year, both campuses turn the colours of their respective teams: the famous maroon for Sheffield Hallam University, and black and gold for University of Sheffield. The fierce competitive nature between the teams is clear, and the electric atmosphere of the tournament cements it as a milestone in the Sheffield student experience

This year, is your opportunity to take control, and be the change you want to see #BelieveMaroon2026💜

Key Dates 2026:

Sports Park Day - Wednesday 18th March - £7.00

Boxing at The Octagon - Monday 23rd March - £9

Ice Hockey (Closing Ceremony) - Wednesday 25th March - £16.50

All tickets available to purchase here: https://sheffield-varsity.sites.sheffield.ac.uk/hallam-tickets