Every year, the Nottingham Varsity Series brings together thousands of students to witness the intense university rivalry between the University of Nottingham (UoN) and Nottingham Trent University (NTU). The electric energy, roaring chants, and nail-biting showdowns make #NottsVarsity one of the most anticipated events on the student calendar – and the 2025 edition certainly lived up to the hype.
The Nottingham Varsity Series is a multi-sport showdown unlike any other. Across several weeks, UoN and NTU go head-to-head in a packed calendar of fixtures ranging from high-stakes stadium events to fierce indoor competitions. It’s about much more than just the final score – it’s about showcasing student-athlete excellence, uniting the Green and Gold, and fighting for the pride of our university.
The University of Nottingham has a remarkable record in recent years, having won the series twelve consecutive times before this year, the 2025 season saw UoN rise to the occasion once again. With our athletes, coaches, and supporters combining to secure another well-earned Varsity series win.
This year’s Varsity was filled with unforgettable moments from the very first whistle. Over 20 matches took place, spanning sports such as swimming, netball, lacrosse, basketball, tennis, and many more. Every team played their hearts out, knowing that every point could tilt the series in Nottingham's favour. The atmosphere at each venue was electric – filled with cheering crowds, face paint, flags, and the relentless energy of Green and Gold fans showing up in full force.
A true highlight of the series came with the return of our iconic stadium fixtures, where Varsity reached its peak in scale and spectacle, with the 2025 Varsity series containing matches in some of Nottingham’s largest arenas.
The series opening Ice Hockey match, at Nottingham’s very own Motorpoint Arena, delivered one of the most thrilling nights of the season, as the energy rose to new levels with thousands of fans packing the arena.
Then came the long-awaited return of Varsity Football to Meadow Lane – the home of the world's oldest professional football club and University of Nottingham partner in Notts County - and a ground steeped in local sporting history. For the first time in several years, the iconic stadium hosted the series' football fixture. Under the floodlights and in front of a roaring crowd of supporters, UoN showed composure and class, delivering a powerful performance that secured a vital victory. The return to Meadow Lane wasn’t just symbolic – it's a reminder to everyone of the scale and tradition behind Varsity, and why this series means so much to our sporting community.
In the end, the consistency, heart, and team spirit led UoN to lift the Varsity crown once again, with a final score of 10-3. From dominant displays to edge-of-your-seat finishes, every fixture contributed to a series win that reflects the depth of talent and unity within the University of Nottingham. It was a team effort in every sense – on the pitch, in the stands, and behind the scenes.
University of Nottingham Students' Union Sports Officer for 2024/25, James Miller, reflected on the series by saying: "Varsity 2025 was nothing short of incredible. From headline events at Meadow Lane and the Motorpoint Arena to action-packed Super Wednesdays, our green and gold teams did us proud. Seeing so many of you come down to watch our teams battle (and usually win!) against our city rivals was the highlight of the series and for me showcases the true power of the sporting community here at the University of Nottingham. Men’s Football winning 3-1 at Meadow Lane really stands out, and epitomised the whole series. The great weather, great support, and a great performance to match made it the perfect celebration of student sport. Nottingham is green and gold!"
To every athlete who trained, every supporter who cheered, and every volunteer who made it all happen – thank you! Varsity 2025 will be remembered for the results and the spirit that brought our community together. Here’s to another year of #GreenandGold greatness, and we will see you at Varsity 2026!
You can find out more about the Notts Varsity series by visiting the official website here: Nottingham Varsity 2025