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Hundreds of students set to compete as Abertay faces city rivals in an action‑packed day of sport.
Hundreds of student athletes from across Dundee are preparing to go head‑to‑head as Abertay University takes on the University of Dundee in the 2026 Tay Varsity Challenge Trophy.
Taking place on Wednesday 25 March, the one‑day tournament will see more than 600 students compete in 28 sporting events across the city, with many more expected to join the crowds in support.
Spectators – armed with foam fingers, handmade signs, and Abertay blue – are encouraged to turn out in force. The event is open to everyone, from students and alumni to members of the public.
This year’s Varsity features an extensive programme including football, rugby, athletics, swimming, basketball, netball, volleyball, hockey, tennis, badminton, archery and pool. Fencing also returns to the schedule for the first time in several years, adding to what is already the biggest amateur sporting event in Dundee’s calendar.
Alongside the competitive fixtures, spectators can enjoy dance and cheerleading performances, music, pizza, bake sales and face painting – rounding off the day with the official trophy presentation.
Michael Devlin, Sports Development Officer at Abertay University, said:
Varsity is the highlight of the sporting calendar – the single biggest one-day sporting event in Dundee. It’s an opportunity for our teams to take to the field for the last time this season, and a chance for students and fans to get down and support their uni. Our backs are up against the wall, but Abertay students always take pride in pulling on their jersey and representing our University.
Rory La Trobe, the University of Dundee’s Sports Union President, said:
We are all really looking forward to Varsity this year. It's always such a great event in the sporting calendar that everyone can enjoy. It’s as fun for the spectators as it is for the participants, which is one of the reasons it is so great.
As Abertay prepares to take on the current holders of the Tay Varsity Challenge Trophy, spirits are high and anticipation is building for another memorable contest.
For schedule updates and event timings, visit the Abertay University Sports Union Instagram, or check the University of Dundee Sports Union Instagram.
