A look at Swansea University’s rugby term so far!
As Term 1 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on what has been an exciting and promising season so far for Swansea University’s Men’s First Rugby Team. With impressive performances and plenty of highlights already under their belts, the team is well on track to surpass last year’s success and continue building momentum into 2025.
The season kicked off with a challenging opener against Cardiff Met, a fixture that tested the team’s mettle early on. The boys rose to the occasion, regrouping the following week to deliver a stunning 34-14 victory over Leeds Beckett, showcasing their grit and determination.
October brought even more action, including a thrilling 28-24 triumph over Durham, with captain Joe Rees leading by example and steering the team to another standout performance. The intensity hit new heights in the fiercely contested showdown with our biggest rivals, Cardiff University. The 17-17 draw was a nail-biter and served as an electrifying preview of the highly anticipated Welsh Varsity clash in April.
Building for the Future: Insights from Hugh Gustafson
We caught up with Hugh Gustafson, our Rugby Performance Manager, who shared his thoughts on the team’s journey so far:
“We’ve delivered some strong performances this season, and I’m proud of how the team has embraced opportunities to improve. There’s still plenty to play for in 2025, and I’m confident we’ll achieve solid results.
Our squad this year is incredibly talented, and with targeted improvements, we’re aiming for key victories in upcoming fixtures. By the end of next year, we want to cement our position in the BUCS Super Rugby League and push for a top-6 finish.
With the Welsh Varsity fast approaching, we’re focused on ensuring the team is at peak performance to take on Cardiff University on April 9th. I’m excited to see what this group can accomplish in the new year—it’s shaping up to be something special.”
All Eyes on Varsity
The road ahead is packed with challenges and opportunities, and we’re excited to see how the team continues to grow. The highlight of the year, Welsh Varsity on April 9th, promises to be an epic showdown, and we’re backing the boys to rise to the occasion.
Are you passionate about rugby and want to join a thriving programme? Swansea University Rugby offers an unparalleled experience both on and off the pitch.
Learn more about our rugby programme and how you can get involved here.