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SPORT
What is it and how can you get involved? During your time at the University of Nottingham, it is easy to hear the term ‘BUCS’ thrown around without understanding what it is or, more importantly, how you can get involved. So, what does this mysterious acronym really stand for?
British Universities and Colleges Sport, more commonly referred to as BUCS, is the United Kingdom’s foremost prevalent organisation when it comes to university sport. The origins of BUCS dates back to 1918, when the Presidents of University Unions agreed on the need for an association who would organise sporting events between universities. In 2008, the University College Sport (UCS) association merged with the British Universities Sports Association (BUSA) to create BUCS. Like the NCAA in the USA, BUCS is responsible for organising leagues and fixtures between universities and higher education colleges. BUCS aims to encourage all students to take part in physical activity during their time at university. From the more traditional to the more nuanced sports, everyone can get involved in BUCS competitions, regardless of experience. Whether you’re a county-level hockey player or an Ultimate Frisbee novice, you have the opportunity to represent your university at weekly and annual competitions. Each sport is unique in the way it is organised, but all teams are vying to compete for ‘BUCS Points’ which contribute to the national rankings. In the last fulfilled season, 2018-2019, the University of Nottingham came second, behind only Loughborough University, in the end of year BUCS points rankings. When BUCS returns this autumn, the University of Nottingham will once again be ready to mount a challenge to Loughborough’s decade long hegemony. So, when do these BUCS fixtures take place? And will they disrupt your studies? Well, you may notice, when you get your timetable this September, that you have every Wednesday afternoon free of timetabled study. This is to give you the freedom to compete in sporting events without having to sacrifice lectures or seminars. BUCS is not only a great way to keep fit and get involved in regular competition. The friends and experiences you gain when you join a university sports team will create everlasting memories that truly complete the university experience. Those looking to get involved, whether experienced or not, should keep an eye out for all the different sports teams on show at your Welcome Week Freshers’ Fair. The sport you were destined to play may be one you haven’t even heard of yet!
By Matthew Cotter Page Design by Chiara Crompton
