IMS Football: A UoN Sport Gem

For many unsuccessful UONFC trialists, halls’ team players, and society members, IMS (intra-mural) football is the central pillar of their university experience. With around 2,000 students competing in 150 teams each week, it’s undeniably a core part of UoN Sport itself. Armed with three years of History Society FC experience, Rhys sets about collecting the experiences of those fortunate enough to grace the hallowed turf of Riverside.

IMS football is one of the most successful parts of UoN’s sporting fabric. Sure, it’s not representing the Green and Gold in BUCS, and no, it isn’t the highest standard of football in Nottingham (although I’ve seen many a side defend better than Forest have at points this season). And yes, we do play at a venue that’d rival Commonwealth Bay in Antarctica for the title of windiest place on Earth. But it remains a brilliant staple of university sport. There’s also no shortage of talent. UONFC 7s had a torrid season in IMS, routinely beaten by teams of skilled society players who wouldn’t be out of place in the university setup. The IMS All Stars take on a UONFC XI each season, and won 2022’s fixture.

IMS Football Exec George realises the quality: “It’s evident that we have players of the highest quality... IMS can serve as the perfect upwards route for footballers who have previously played at a high level.” IMS benefits those looking to play at the top university level or seeking a more casual experience. “We have teams who strive to win the IMS Cup and are highly organised, and also teams who are hungover at kick-off nine out of ten weeks, yet still relish the opportunity.”

Undoubtedly the best part of my three years at the university has been my time in IMS football. From competing on the pitch to endless pub trips and Ocean socials, nothing compares. I can only speak of my own experience, but the brotherhood – that’s no overstatement – built on and off the pitch is something that will live on with me after university, more so than the football itself.

History Society captain Johno says similar: “the bond I’ve developed with my team is something that far outweighs anything else I’ll take away from university.”

IMS’ benefits to physical health are obvious, but its positive effect on mental health is perhaps even more significant. Each Wednesday is an opportunity to escape the stresses of student life, the deadlines, the anxiety. A chance to meet up with your teammates, play a sport you love, and reward yourselves with a pub trip. Others echo my thoughts. Matty says, “IMS was nice to keep active and healthy, but more important was the brotherhood and friends made. Those social bonds were especially crucial after a COVID-affected first year.”

Zach, outgoing captain of IMS giants BES, says “IMS provides such an enjoyable football environment and is as competitive as you want it to be. The teams I’ve played with have all been a massive part of my uni experience.”

The women’s scene is strong too. Georgia, women’s IMS exec, says, “we saw a growth in the number of teams this year, something en’s IMS exec, says, “we saw a growth in the number of teams this year, something I hope will continue over the next few years as it’s been lovely seeing more people get involved. I think IMS is really important for those who want to enjoy football but don’t have the time to join the BUCS team. We also have a lot of people who haven’t played before and it’s great that they feel comfortable.” On the social side, “women’s IMS football is generally a tight-knit group, with many Crisis socials and pub trips. As a fresher, it helped me make friends I’m still close with today.”

Anna notes several merits: “It’s great exercise as I’ve never enjoyed the gym and it’s been a great way to meet new people. I’d never played football before this year, so it was the perfect level to start at.”

With all of that in mind, if you’re still in Nottingham next year and enjoy football, make sure you get involved in IMS. The friendships and memories made are something you’ll cherish long after you graduate, and you might even get a shot at the coveted IMS Cup.

- Rhys Thomas