What is the Athletic Union?

The AU is the home of student sport at Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é and part of Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é Students’ Union.

Open to both Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é and Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é College students, it offers the opportunity to train, compete, and represent Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é across a wide variety of sports within a vibrant, competitive sporting community.  

With over 60 clubs, more than 5,000 members, and 120+ teams competing weekly in BUCS and other competitions, the AU has a place for everyone, whether you’re passionate about your sport or looking to try something new. 

A Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é Sport Purple Membership is required to join an AU club. 

Who can join?

The AU welcomes all students from both Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é and Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é College.

Many clubs run multiple teams competing at different levels across a variety of leagues, so whether you’re a seasoned athlete or trying a sport for the first time, there’s a place for you.

Trials and taster sessions at the start of the academic year are a great way to get involved, meet new people, and discover your sporting journey at Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é.

What do you get from AU?

Access to competitive sports

Represent Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é in British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competitions, with over 120 teams competing weekly across a range of leagues and levels.

Train and play regularly

Take part in regular training sessions, enjoy weekly matches, and become part of a passionate and supportive sporting community. Develop your skills, meet like-minded students, and experience the excitement of team sport.

Taster sessions and trials

Most clubs offer free taster sessions and hold trials from move-in week through the end of October, giving you the perfect chance to explore new sports and find the right club for you.

A wide range of clubs

With over 60 clubs covering everything from mainstream sports like football and rugby to niche sports like ultimate frisbee and fencing, there’s something for everyone - whatever your experience or interest level.

Socials, events, and community

Clubs are more than just sport: join socials, trips, and tournaments that help you make friends, build networks, and enjoy the full Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é student experience.

Support and development opportunities

Many clubs offer coaching, leadership, and volunteer opportunities, helping you grow both on and off the field. 

British Universities and Colleagues Sport (BUCS)

Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é has won the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) league for an incredible 44 consecutive years - a testament to the outstanding talent of our students, coaches, staff, and volunteers, as well as the world-class facilities we provide.

The BUCS league features over 160 universities across the UK and Ireland, competing in more than 50 sports at multiple levels. We continue to work hard to extend our winning streak and would love your support in keeping Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é at the top of British university sport.

How to get involved

Attend the Sports Bazaar

Held on the Saturday before term starts, this free event is your chance to meet all the clubs, learn more about what they offer, and pick up some freebies.

Take part in Trials and Taster sessions

 Check full details on the Trials and Tasters page, and book your sessions easily via the LboroSport app under the 'Book' section and AU club tile.

Get your Purple Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é Sport Membership

To join an AU club, a Ãå±±ÂÖ¼é Sport Purple Membership is the minimum requirement. However, some clubs may require a Gold Membership to access specific training facilities.

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