RUMS Hockey Varsity Preview

Photography by Kajol Marathe

Kajol Marathe previews the upcoming Varsity hockey match between RUMS and GKT.

The start of London Varsity Series is almost upon us. Medical students from Kings College London (GKT) and University College London (RUMS) will also be competing in an effort to retain the coveted title, which UCL has held since 2017. In 2019, Medics’ Football, Hockey and Netball are all bravely putting teams forward. On Saturday 9th March, the Womens’ RUMS Hockey team will face off with GKT in what is shaping up to be an unmissable event in this year’s Varsity Series.

RUMS Women’s Hockey 1st XI had an unprecedented season of success last year culminating in their triple win of Varsity, the LUSL cup and a BUCS promotion, which resulted in them receiving the much-deserved accolade of RUMS Team of the Year 2017-18.

Under the careful guidance of experienced captain Aisha Damarell, the girls are back with a vengeance and have their sights set on their third Varsity victory in a row. The season has also seen some fresh, exciting talent on the pitch. Freshers Elina Bjorheim and Jess Holmes are impressive defenders and are making their Varsity debut next Saturday.  The formidable defence is strengthened by last years’ captain Amy Foulkes, as well as skilful goalkeeper and President Frankie Bugg. Additionally, seasoned players Chloe Hall, Iram Hasan, Phoebe Verbeeten and Elin Hughes will be playing their final Varsity game this year before their medical finals.

The match against GKT will be taking place at Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre, nestled in the leafy heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Last year, the atmosphere was incredible, with a large crowd of supporters cheering the Mens’ and Womens’ teams on. There is always a friendly rivalry between Kings and UCL and this year will fare no different. Expect face-paint, painted banners and light-hearted chants from both universities loud enough to show each university’s fierce loyalty towards their team

Last year, the game was fast-paced with a final score of 5-1 as the girls demonstrated that their speed, stamina and stick skills were no match for GKT. After the Mens’ and Womens’ games finish, an after-party has been planned at the Kings’ Union. There is no better way to celebrate the hard-work the girls have put in – it is a highlight of the year as both clubs descend into revelry.

The girls would like to bring it home in front of a roaring crowd, so if you are looking for a fun evening watching spectacular stickball (in the company of equally spectacular spectators) then this is the event for you.

Support RUMS Womens’ Hockey Club on Saturday 9th March at Lee Valley, with the Womens’ starting at 6.10 pm and the Mens’ at 8.10 pm. Additionally, the UCL Womens’ Hockey Game will be taking place on Friday 8thMarch also at Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre. Buy your £5 tickets here.