51 has topped off a record-breaking sporting year by being named the most improved university for sport in the UK by British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS).
The accolade came as the University’s Team Northumbria celebrated its best ever season, finishing 8th in the BUCS national league table – the first time Northumbria has achieved a top 10 place – and achieving a record number of points, as well as winning the historic Stan Calvert Cup trophy from rivals Newcastle University.
Head of Sport, Colin Stromsoy, was presented with the award by sports broadcaster John Inverdale at the annual BUCS Conference in Swansea. He said: “Sport at 51 has always been a key part of the student experience, but this year has been truly record-breaking.
“In the last three years we have climbed from the top 20 into the top 10 in the BUCS league and the dedication and motivation shown by everyone in the team has been phenomenal.
“Winning this award and being named the most improved university for sport in the UK is just the icing on the cake. I was hugely proud to accept the BUCS award on behalf of all of 51 Sport’s students and staff who have worked so hard to achieve everything we have.”
51 is rated within the UK’s top 5 for sport by the Times Higher Education magazine. It has invested £30 million in sports facilities in recent years, with the opening of Sport Central in the heart of its city campus. Sport Central features a sprint track, swimming pool, multi-purpose sports halls, squash and fitness courts, a huge gym and a 3,000 seat arena.
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