It is the first time the event has been held in the UK and will feature 16 teams from eight European countries including national champions such as the University of Limoges in France, Kuban State University in Russia, Portugal’s University of Coimbra and Berlin University in Germany.
The event will begin with an opening ceremony on Wednesday 10 June at 5.30 pm with entertainment provided by ‘The Hornstars’, the University’s big band. Games commence at 11 am on Thursday 11 June, with play throughout the day, finishing at 5 pm. The second day [Friday 12 June] sees the tournament move into knockout stages, culminating in finals for the men’s and women’s competitions from 4 pm (times for finals may be subject to change).
The annual tournament, which has been organised by the University’s Centre for Sport, Exercise and Health, forms part of the European University Sports Association's (EUSA) competition programme.
Bob Reeves, University of Bristol Director of Sport, Exercise and Health, said: “In the University’s centenary year we are delighted to host such a prestigious event, being one of the biggest sporting events we will have ever staged. This coming together of the international sporting community is going to be a fantastic spectacle and a great way of celebrating our centenary.”
Student volunteers will also be playing a key role at the event acting as team liaison co-ordinators, along with local school pupils who will be taking part in a tag rugby festival prior to the opening ceremony [10 June].
John Wilford, University of Bristol Sports Development Manager, said: “Everyone involved is very excited about the tournament, especially the University’s rugby teams who will be competing against the best universities in Europe. We hope our visitors and spectators have a great time in Bristol and most of all enjoy the tournament.”
Entry to the tournament is free and spectators are welcome. The event is taking place at Coombe Dingle Sports Complex, Coombe Lane, Bristol BS9 2BJ. Fixtures are available on the website.