VARSITY 2026

Details Category: News

Published: Tuesday, 10 March 2026 09:58 Written by Michelle

 

The 2026 Varsity Series is here! Brighton will play Sussex across 14 events to see who will win this year's title. Most events will be open to spectators. It is a great chance to support your university and see some great sporting action. Events take place from Sunday 8th March and conclude on Friday 20th March. Follow the Sport Brighton Instagram page for updates leading up to and throughout the event. 

Tickets for events with spectators can be found here. These are only available to University of Brighton students. 

An overview of fixtures can be found below: 

 

BRIGHTON 0 - 3 SUSSEX

 

* American Football has unfortunately been cancelled due to scheduling difficulties.

 

 

 

University of Brighton Sports Awards 2026

Details Category: News

Published: Monday, 02 March 2026 09:59

 

 

The 2026 University of Brighton Sports Awards Dinner will take place at The Hilton Metropole on Brighton seafront. Join us on Friday 8th May 2026 to celebrate the university's sporting successes. Evening includes the award presentations, welcome drink, a two course dinner. 

 

KEY INFORMATION

 

 

DATE: FRIDAY 8th MAY 2026

VENUE: THE HILTON METROPOLE, BRIGHTON

 

TICKETS:

All ticket sales open Monday 2nd March and close on 10th April or until sold out. 

 

Get you tickets here.

 

REVIEW OF THE YEAR VIDEO:

If you have any high quality video footage or photos of your club or Panther related activity please send these to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  These could feature in our end of year review video.

  

NOMINATIONS:

AWARD NOMINATIONS OPEN ON MONDAY 2ND MARCH AND CLOSE ON SUNDAY 29TH MARCH. 

NOMINATE HERE FOR ALL MAIN AWARDS.

NOMINATE HERE FOR CLUB COLOURS.

 

It's that time of the year again to shine a spotlight on our exceptional talents and celebrate the remarkable achievements within our Panthers community. The Sports Awards nominations are now open, and we invite you to put forth the names of those individuals, teams and clubs who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship in their respective discipline. Whether it's a stellar performance on the field, exemplary leadership off the court, or an inspiring commitment to volunteering, we encourage you to nominate deserving candidates who have made significant contributions to sport at the University of Brighton. Don't miss this opportunity to applaud their hard work and commitment. Nominate now and be a part of celebrating excellence in university sports.

The judges panel will only selected winners from completed nominations- so please ensure you nominate the clubs and people who have impacted your sports journey.

In addition to the main awards, we also want to celebrate our Panthers Clubs via the Panthers Club Colours. This is your chance to celebrate the contribution someone in your club has made.

 

 

NOMINATIONS OPEN - CATEGORIES

 

 

CLUB OF THE YEAR

The award is for outstanding excellence in every aspect of the club’s activities throughout the year. This could be in terms of performance, club participation, fund-raising, community engagement or a number of these factors.

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

TEAM OF THE YEAR (BUCS)

The most successful weekly BUCS team awarded for sporting achievement in League and Cup competitions.

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

TEAM OF THE YEAR (EVENTS)

The most successful team awarded for sporting achievement in Events and Competitions (BUCS team events also included in this category)

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Any club, team or individual can win this award. They must have shown a big improvement or have done exceptionally well in their given sport, exceeding all expectations. This could be in terms of performance, club participation or any club activity

N.B. Only to be awarded in cases of genuine outstanding achievement

 

COACH OF THE YEAR

To be awarded to the most successful coach of a sporting team at the University. Factors such as sporting outcomes, commitment and participation growth will be considered in equal measure,

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

PHILANTHROPY AWARD

Awarded to a club, team or individual who through their involvement in sports activities has shown outstanding civic responsibility as demonstrated by contributions of financial resources and/or voluntary commitment of time. Examples of this include charity fundraising, awareness campaigns or volunteering in the community.

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

 

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

To be awarded to a volunteer who has demonstrated commitment and dedication to internal or external sports groups. Volunteering recognition needs to be considered as going Above and Beyond in an elected or club position. 

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

 

SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR

Awarded to an individual for exceptional individual sport performance.

 

 

THE BARRY SQUIRES PANTHERS ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Awarded to an individual for excellent contribution to sport and the panthers community. Above and beyond just a Committee position. Presented in memory of former University of Brighton Head of Sport Barry Squires. 

2026 Shortlist:

• TBC

 

PANTHER CLUB COLOURS

Club nominated award - services to sport/players player

Must have a current Panthers Club membership

 

 

PANTHER FULL PURPLES 

To be eligible for a full colour an individual: 

• must have represented British Universities, Home Nations or National team 

• must have played in 80% of all possible 1st team games 

• must have given at least 1 years’ service to club or duration of course. 

• for individual sports they must have finished in a top 3 position at a recognised national championships in a senior or advanced category 

ANNOUNCED AT THE AWARDS.

 

Free Trial Swim Lessons

Details Category: News

Published: Monday, 08 December 2025 13:26 Written by Michelle

 

Sport Brighton has just introduced a free swim lesson trial for its swim school. Whether you are taking your first dip, improving technique, or looking for inclusive swimming support for your child, our swim school offers high quality, friendly, and professionally delivered lessons for all ages and abilities. Lessons run during term time and are paid termly and work out to £12.00 per lesson. 

To make your visit even easier, we provide two hours of free parking for all swim school customers—simply enter your vehicle registration into the tablet at reception on arrival. 

To book your free trial session then email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Below you can find out more information on what we have on offer. 

 

LEARN TO SWIM LESSONS (STAGES 1-7):

Our Learn to Swim programme is designed for children aged 4 to 16, following Swim England Stages 1–7. Classes are capped at 8 swimmers to ensure each child receives personalised guidance. 

• Mondays: 15:45–18:15 

• Saturdays: 09:00–11:00 

Each session is 30 minutes, and Stage 1 swimmers benefit from both an instructor on the poolside and an assistant in the water to support swimmers and build confidence. Whether your child is brand new to the water or progressing towards confident and efficient swimming, our structured pathway ensures steady and enjoyable development. 

 

SEND CLASSES:

We proudly offer supportive, inclusive swimming sessions for children with cognitive conditions who thrive in a less structured learning environment. A parent or guardian is required in the water to ensure comfort, communication, and a positive experience. Our instructors focus on building water confidence at each child’s pace, making swimming enjoyable and accessible for all. 

 

ADULT SWIMMING LESSONS:

Swimming isn’t just for kids—our Monday evening adult programme helps swimmers of all levels achieve their goals. 

• Mondays: 18:30–20:00 

We offer Swim England pathway lessons: 

• Be Water Confident 

• Be a Swimmer 

• Be a Better Swimmer 

Classes are 30 minutes, capped at 6 adults, ensuring tailored guidance and plenty of practice time. Whether you are overcoming water nerves or refining your stroke technique, our friendly instructors are here to support your journey. 

 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Jacob’s mum – “my son started as a non-swimmer in the intensive lessons during the summer,  he is now working towards Stage 5. I cannot believe the progress”

Andre – “My son is absolutely loving the swimming lessons. And Becky and the team are doing a brilliant job”

Poppy’s mum – “Poppy has progressed so much and thoroughly enjoys her swimming lessons at Sport Brighton”

Euan & Neal’s mum – “Thanks for a brilliant week of swimming lessons, Euan and Neal have really enjoyed themselves and have improved a lot in a short time. The teachers (Jill and Rachael) have been great”

 

 

GET IN TOUCH:

We are here to help with any questions or bookings. 

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 
Phone: 01273 643520 

Welcome 2025/26

Details Category: News

Published: Monday, 08 September 2025 13:59 Written by Michelle

 

🏃‍♀️ Welcome to Sport Brighton: Fitness, Fun and Community

Whether you're fresh on campus or returning for another year of studies, Sport Brighton is here to help you stay active, make friends, and feel your best. As the department for sport and fitness at the University of Brighton, we offer a wide range of services designed to suit every interest and ability level.

 

🏋️‍♂️ What We Offer

From state-of-the-art gyms to competitive sports teams, Sport Brighton has something for everyone:

• Gym & Fitness Facilities: Access modern gyms at our Falmer and Moulsecoomb campuses, equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and functional training zones. From day passes to monthly memberships check out your options here. 

• Group Exercise Classes: Choose from yoga, spin, HIIT, dance, and more—perfect for staying motivated and mixing up your routine. View and book on to our classes.

• Daily Swim Sessions: Try our 25m Falmer pool in the Brighton Sport and Health Complex. From £3.50 pay as you go to monthly memberships. See our availability and timetables here. 

• Competitive teams & sport for fun through our student clubs; the Panthers: Join our university clubs in a range of sports. Clubs vary greatly so check out our A to Z guide for all the options available to you. You can try nearly all clubs for no cost to see what takes your fancy. 

• Social Sport through Panthers Play: Join casual sessions like 5-a-side football, badminton, or netball—no commitment, just fun. Find out more here.

• Personal Training & Fitness Support: Get expert guidance tailored to your goals, whether you're training for something in particular or just starting out.

• Courses and Personal Development: You can work for us if you have NPLQ or PT qualifications, volunteer with us and gain great perks and experiences. Finally you can gain qualifications with us through our PT and Gym Instructor Level 2, Level 3 and Diploma courses. 

 

🎓 Why Get Involved?

Sport Brighton isn’t just about fitness—it’s about community. Joining a club or class is a great way to meet people, reduce stress, and boost your wellbeing. Plus, regular physical activity has been shown to improve academic performance and mental health.

 

💡 How to Get Started

• Memberships: Affordable student memberships are available with flexible options. Sign up online or at any Sport Brighton facility.

• Download the App: Book classes, check schedules, and manage your membership via our App.

• Follow Us: Stay updated on events, challenges, and opportunities via Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube (@SportBrighton).

 

🥳 Freshers & Welcome Events

Look out for free taster sessions and giveaways during Freshers Week. Whether you're curious about climbing or keen to join a team, there's no better time to dive in. Find out about all the clubs and Sport Brighton services at the 2025 Brighton Students' Union Freshers Fair. This is taking place at the Meads Building and Brighton Sport and Health Complex at the Falmer Campus on Wednesday 1st October 2025, 11am-4pm.