University hosts regional colleges sports championships

The University of Wolverhampton recently hosted the Association of Colleges (AoC) Midlands Sports Championships to give local college students an insight into higher education sport.  

This year’s event was the third time the University played host to the regional championships held at the Walsall Campus Sports Centre.  

More than 600 students took part in the championships, with sports ranging from men’s basketball, women’s football, cross-country running, badminton and table tennis.  

The championships showcased the University’s world-leading sports facilities and provided students, from all backgrounds and of all abilities, to take part in several sports.  

The event also saw sports students from the University volunteer in delivering and organising the activities.  

Reflecting on the event, James Dale, interim Head of the School of Sport at the University, said: “It was great to host the championships for a third consecutive year and provide a backdrop for young people to take part in their respective sport. 

“The partnership with AoC Sport is important as they’re among the leaders in further education for sport and physical activity. AoC Sport’s vision of developing young people through sport and physical activity aligns to the University of Wolverhampton’s sport and wider institutional strategic aims and objectives.  

“What was also inspiring was seeing our students deliver and organise the event.  For the department of sport and the wider institution, it’s imperative we provide our students with a variety of opportunities to develop their experience alongside their studies. It was brilliant to see so many applying their knowledge in a practical setting.”  

One student who helped run the event was second-year Sport and Exercise Science student Ben Andrews. Ben had previously competed at the championships with his college basketball team and is now studying at the University.  

He said: “My role was a step up from regular volunteering to lead and manage the men's basketball tournament. I was able to source table officials and referees as well as organise the basketball tournament schedules.  

“My journey started when I competed at the championships two years ago and I met sports staff including James Dale and Dr Shaun Galloway. Now, I’m studying at the University and the support has been immense.  

“Having also built relationships with graduates who work at AoC, I’ve been delighted to work with them in helping run events as part of the championships.”  

Rob Elkin, Senior Sport Development Officer (Team Leader) at the Association of Colleges, said: “The partnership between the University and AoC Sport is growing each year and it was great to see more than 600 students compete at this year’s Midlands Championships.  

“Equally impressive was six students, who were previous regional tournament attendees in 2022 and 2023 with their respective colleges, involved in the organisation and delivery of this year’s regional tournaments alongside AoC Sport staff providing real life work experiences and giving something back.  We’re excited to work on further projects with the University.”  

Anyone interested in studying for courses at the School of Sport at the University of Wolverhampton should register for one of our forthcoming Open Days.