How joining a sport changed my university experience

Worried about balancing a sport around studies?

When I first joined Dance, I did wonder how I’d juggle it with my academic workload – it’s completely natural to be worried about trying to find the time to balance everything, whether that’s essays, exams or friendships. Hopefully I can provide you with some insight on how to manage this and get the most out of your university experience!  

Knowing I had training in the evenings motivated me to structure my days more efficiently, and so I learned to plan ahead and use my free hours between classes productively. Dance became a built-in break from study stress, where I got to unload and be with my friends. 

Some weeks were busier than usual, especially in the run-up to competitions, so it was important to prioritise. Whether that was saying no to a social that week, or spending more time in the library, it’s important to stay on top of things. If there is any time you feel life is getting too much, the university offers a wide range of easily accessible support networks to help make sure you are enjoying your time here and are feeling okay!  

Wellbeing: healthy living, laughing and feeling good

Staying active is imperative at university, for your mental and physical health. Dance helped me stay fit, but more importantly, it gave me an outlet. It introduced me to like-minded people, encouraging me to make friends and providing fun memories every week.  

Being part of a team also improved my emotional wellbeing. Having supportive teammates who always cheer me on helps to create a sense of belonging! This is important in maintaining mindfulness, as university can sometimes feel very different from what you’re used to.

Joining dance also allowed me to mingle with others from different societies, and so we’ve all become one big sporting community. I’ve made friends for life and happy memories all while keeping fit.

The Doors Dance opened

I had no idea just how many amazing opportunities would come from joining dance. I got to travel and compete at other universities where we went on to achieve a total of nine gold medals, three silver and eight bronze; this was across all the different genres we have to offer at LBU dance, from hip-hop and ballet to jazz.

As well as exciting competitions, we also got to perform in our own university showcase at the Northern Ballet School where we were able to dance in front of friends and family. The run up was fun as it was more relaxed than competition rehearsals, so if you’re worried about a sport being intense, don’t be. There’s always an option to just do it socially and not take part in the competitive aspect.

Sports and communities usually have regular socials which can be themed, filled with fun games and lots of laughs. The themes are always fun and unique - my favourite had to be ‘dress up as an Ibiza final boss’! Usually, we all meet in the student union and play games before heading out into the city centre. If drinking isn’t your vibe, don’t worry, not all socials involve alcohol, there are dry ones too. Take a lively day out at the trampoline park - I was in my element here! At the end of the sporting season, you’ll have a chance to attend a Sports Ball with lots of other clubs, which is a great evening to celebrate your team and committee members.  

Another great event, often referred to as the ‘best day of the uni calendar’, is Varsity. This is an annual showdown where Leeds Beckett’s top sports teams compete against the University of Leeds in a fierce but friendly rivalry. It concludes with an epic Varsity Rugby Finale at Headingly Stadium, with crowds of up-to 10,000 students dressed in purple or green! Leeds Beckett Dance Team perform before each Varsity match, which I was lucky enough to be a part of, and it was truly a highlight of my first year in dance! 

There’s a sport for all!

You might be reading this thinking ‘but I’m not a dancer’- and that’s totally fine! One of the best things about University Sport is how varied it is. Whether you’re into football, netball, water-polo or even korfball there’s a community out there waiting for you!

Some of my friends decided to join a sport they’d never tried before and ended up loving it. University is the time to explore opportunities, try something new and be brave… even if it feels a bit scary at first, it might end up being the best decision you make.

I cannot wait for the new term to start so I can get back to Dance - I hope to see you there!