Team GB Olympic rower, Tom Ransley, is set to inspire Hull sports teams as they compete against Lincoln University students at the annual Varsity match on Saturday.
Tom, who completed his collection of international titles at Rio 2016 when he added Olympic gold to his two world championships and one European crown, will attend the event to give the basketball team a pep talk prior to their match – which is billed as one of the most fiercely-contested games of #humbergames20. He will also present awards to individual players after matches, provide a running update on scores throughout the day and make the presentation to the winning side.
Erin Pettit, President, Sport, Hull University Union, said: “We’re pleased to welcome Team GB athlete and gold medallist, Tom Ransley to campus for Varsity. Tom’s journey to success is an inspiring one, so our students are excited to meet him and hear his advice on getting to the top.”
Varsity, which sees over 30 teams go head to head in a battle for the winning title 'Varsity Champions', is one of the biggest sporting competitions of the year on campus and promises to attract more than 1000 students spectators. Staff and members of the community are also invited to come to support our students as they compete in a variety of sports from American football to Athletics, Rowing to Rugby, Squash to Swimming.
Steve Curtis, Interim Head of Sport, said: “We are delighted that Tom is able to join us as part of our exclusive partnership with Team GB. His track record of success and personal tips for our players before the basketball match will be invaluable in psyching them up to win their match.
“Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the day. We are looking forward to welcoming staff, students and members of the community to our amazing sports facilities, to experience the friendly rivalry and competition which are a highlight of Varsity.”
The Allam Sport Centre, which will host many of the Varsity matches, was opened in 2018. It is an international-standard sports arena with 12 courts and bleacher-style seating for 700 spectators. The Centre forms part of the £16 million investment in sports facilities on campus designed to provide first-class sports facilities and an outstanding experience for staff, students and the local community. The facilities also include a 120-station fitness suite, floodlit 3G football and rugby pitches, pitch-side changing rooms and a new strength and conditioning suite. The Centre is set to host other high-profile events such as Allam British Open Squash Championships during the next few months.
All support would be welcomed at the Varsity event, which starts at 9am and takes place in 10 different venues, on and off-campus. Find full details of the event here.