Another year, another Cardiff University Welsh Varsity win! Varsity is always the highlight of my year, and with Cardiff hosting this year, it was incredibly special. As a final year student, I was focused on soaking up every moment of the day, and I truly made some amazing memories. So, here is how the day went, both supporting and spectating.
As soon as you stepped foot into Sophia Gardens, you could feel the excitement in the air: a sea of mingling green and red, amazing homemade signs, and some incredible chants of support for both Cardiff and Swansea. The first sport I went to watch was the men’s hockey game. Though it was one of the earlier morning fixtures, the atmosphere did not disappoint. The crowd filled in on both sides, bringing cheers and chants to support their respective teams, and the excitement only grew as both teams warmed up on the pitch. Cardiff Men’s hockey team put on an incredible display of talent from the start, not letting Swansea’s team get a look in at a single goal. With a final score of 4–0 to Cardiff, the men’s team celebrated their win to the sound of cheers of joy from supporters, having made their university enormously proud.
Next up was back-to-back basketball games, starting with the women’s game. Last year, the team had an incredible win over Swansea, but this time round Cardiff Women’s just could not get the win. The team put up a great fight and it was a close match— amazing to watch as a spectator. Swansea Women’s got into their flow, scoring point after point, and staying ahead of Cardiff until the final whistle, snatching a point for Swansea University’s final score. Both teams played very well, and it was a highlight to watch such talented players.
Then I stayed in my seat as the Sport Wales main hall court was filled with the Men’s basketball teams from Swansea and Cardiff. From the moment both teams got on court, the anticipation was palpable. The first quarter saw Swansea take the lead, but Cardiff were able to take the lead back, keeping hold of it until the final whistle. There were many incredible shots, some brilliant defence and the spectators were hooked until the very end. The game truly had me on the edge of my seat as Cardiff Men’s team always stayed just ahead of Swansea Men’s, with a final score of 79–56 to Cardiff