Trophy parade at Headingley after perfect season for Beckett Rugby League 'Invincibles'

The men's first team beat Northumbria University this week to be crowned national champions of the British Universities and College Sport (BUCS), capping a perfect season in which they won all 12 matches against the top university sides in the country.

The season reinforces Leeds Beckett's position as a powerhouse of university rugby league.

Leeds Beckett's strong links with the Rhinos allow the super league side's coach Mark Butterill to double up as the university's head of rugby league.

Mark Butterill said: "It's great reward for a lot of hard work by a fantastic, talented group of players.

"While winning the very competitive championship undefeated is an outstanding achievement, some of the players will kick on to even greater heights.

"We have eight current students at Leeds Beckett on a pathway to the professional game, and that figure will grow thanks to the great partnership between Leeds Beckett and the rhinos."

Captain MacKauley Stephenson, also studying for a masters in sports business and management, said: "It is massive. It is such an amazing achievement, and to go out onto the pitch at Headingley will cap an incredible season.

"Leeds Beckett is a proper, serious rugby environment. The coaches will always help you and do what they can to get you where you want to be.

"There are a lot of big names and sports team here. England's women were here recently - it's a special place."