Whether it’s from KCLSU’s Instagram posts or that one flatmate who is way too involved in sports societies, you’ve probably heard people talk about Varsity. But what is it all about?
For us at King’s, Varsity Week is a much-anticipated event where our sports societies go head-to-head with our long-standing rival, UCL. The competition isn’t just about the glory of winning — it’s about years of tradition, fierce rivalry, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
What is Varsity?
Historically, the rivalry stems from the very foundation of both universities. Created only 3 years apart with two different ideologies at the heart of each, the tensions between the two universities were almost
Forget friendly competition—back in the day, mascot stealing was the heat. KCL’s beloved Reggie the Lion became a constant target, with UCL students kidnapping him and dragging him across the country. In retaliation, King’s students waged war on UCL’s Phineas the Highlander, kicking off years of elaborate heists and campus-wide chaos.
But the real hall of fame moment? The Great Jeremy Bentham Heist of 1989.
Setting up a plan worthy of a plot straight out of Ocean’s Eleven, King’s students stole the real mummified head of UCL’s spiritual founder and, rumour has it, played football with it down Kingsway. UCL was not amused. After some serious damage, they locked the head away—but that didn’t stop King’s from stealing its wax replica the following year. UCL was so outraged that they refused to take part in mascot rivalries ever again.
Years later, in 2004, Varsity itself was established by Adam Sommerfeld. What initially started as a rugby union match has now become a spirited competition. Students between these prestigious institutions compete in various sport, commemorating their historical rivalry that spans almost two centuries.
How does it work?
The format is simple but thrilling: every sports team from King’s faces off against their UCL counterparts. Additionally, GKT (King’s College’s medics sports team) takes on RUMS (UCL’s medics) in a series of fierce matches. By the end of the week, the university with the most wins across all sports is crowned the Varsity champion.
Now, if you’re up to date about recent history, you might recall that King’s had a tough Varsity the last two years, with UCL claiming victory. However, this year is different. The teams have been training harder than ever with determination to reclaim the title. With new talent, refined tactics, and unwavering school spirit, King’s is ready to turn the tide.
And with a record-breaking 45 fixtures throughout the week, there’s no excuse not to find a sport that gets you fired up. Whether you’re into hockey, netball, or ultimate frisbee, Varsity has it all.
Rugby: The grand finale
True to tradition, Rugby takes the spotlight as the grand finale of Varsity Week, closing out the action with highly anticipated, edge-of-your-seat matches. Last year, the women’s team kicked things off with an incredible performance, securing a well-deserved win. The men’s team fought hard and came incredibly close, but were narrowly defeated by just 3 points—a valiant effort that, nonetheless, showed the true spirit of King’s.
But this year, London’s coming back with a full red charge, and let’s face it, it will look better that way. The final match is sure to be a showdown you won’t want to miss—bring your game face, because the energy will be off the charts!
Football makes it’s comeback
After a one-year hiatus from Varsity, football is back—and it’s coming back stronger than ever. Both the men’s and women’s teams have been training tirelessly, with intense seasons behind them and a hunger to reclaim the Varsity title. The wait is finally over, and this year, the football teams are ready to take on UCL head-to-head in what promises to be an unforgettable showdown. The energy is going to be electric, and with a half-time show to keep the atmosphere buzzing, this is one match you won’t want to miss.
When is it?
Varsity 2025 kicks off on March 23rd, bringing a full week of electrifying competition between King’s and UCL. For every participating sports team, this is the highlight of the year—the ultimate test of skill, rivalry, and school pride.
Don’t forget to check the teams’ social for information on their mini-varsity events where 2s, 3s and other squads will go head to head, just like like the big league matchups. If you’re away that week, there’s no excuse to miss out on uni spirit.
If you don’t want to miss the action, keep an eye on KCLSU’s website for tickets and get ready to cheer on your fellow students. After all, nothing brings a uni together quite like taking down UCL.
Why should you care?
Varsity Week is more than just a sports competition. It’s a celebration of university spirit, pride, and tradition. Whether you’re an athlete, a spectator, or just someone looking to be part of an unforgettable week, Varsity is an event that brings the whole university community together. It’s the perfect opportunity to cheer on your friends, experience some fierce competition, and join in on the fun.
So get ready, wear red, create fun signs and come cheer for King’s!
