Representing the university at sport

Sport and physical activity

If you're a dedicated sportsperson, we're here to help you reach your potential.

Are you serious about sport?

If you currently compete for your current college/institution then there are opportunities to represent the university in British Universities and Colleges Sport. You will train and play in a high quality environment, working with a range of highly qualified and credible coaches in our excellent sporting facilities.

If you are a high performer we offer a sports scholarship. If you are on an NGB talent pathway and are part of the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) we are a delivery centre and you can conveniently receive your support services whilst studying at UCLan.

There's plenty of opportunity to grow your CV too. Besides our extensive sports course range, we offer CPD in coaching awards. All this plus free state-of-the art sporting facilities across all of our campuses. Find out about all this and more below.

British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS)  

Are you competing at a high level within your sport? If it’s a BUCS Sports or BUCS Para Sport you’ll be excited to be part of our winning team. You could represent us in one of our many sports clubs. We also compete in the BUCS leagues, along with other cross-university sporting competitions. Competitions are UK-wide throughout the year. 

Focal sports

At UCLan we also place extra investment into six key focal sports. If you’re talented in one of these areas or a BUCS sport, then you may be eligible for a sports scholarship. Awards range up to £5000 cash support, plus various packages of support and benefits. Find out more about our focal sports below. 

  • Rugby league

    Rugby league at the University of Central Lancashire develops players at all levels. You'll develop mentally and physically, testing your tactical and technical abilities. You'll work together with the team to succeed.

  • Netball

    Are you a professional netball player? Do you play for fun, or want to pick up a sport you once loved? The University of Central Lancashire delivers high quality netball training, aimed at players of all abilities.

  • Men's basketball

    The University of Central Lancashire basketball programme is open to players of all levels. Compete in the BUCS Leagues, train with the team or play recreationally.

  • Women's football

    Love football? Want to keep fit and achieve your sporting potential alongside your studies? The University of Central Lancashire women's football is open to members of all abilities.

  • Table tennis

    Table Tennis at the University of Central Lancashire provides players with a professional, high-level training programme that enable players to fulfil their sporting potential.

  • Women's basketball

    The University of Central Lancashire women's basketball programme is open to players of all levels. Compete in the BUCS Leagues, train with the team or play recreationally.

  • Golf

    Our Golf programme is open to players of all levels. Represent us at BUCS Leagues, or play recreationally on the 2K24 Collegiate Golf Tour, sponsored by Callaway Golf Europe.

Sports Scholarship

Are you a talented individual competing at high level within your sport? Then you may be eligible for a fantastic scholarship opportunity.

Sports Scholarship

Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme

We are one of only 37 delivery sites across the country to be recognised by Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS). This is for our performance sport delivery and reputation.

We have extensive experience working in professional clubs and supporting elite performance. We have partnerships with Preston North End FC, Wigan Warriors RLFC, Blackburn Rovers LFC, and the English Institute for Sport, to name but a few.

We create personalised wrap-around support for our assigned TASS athletes. This support is central to enhancing each athlete’s sporting and academic needs. Core services include lifestyle support, strength, and conditioning, physiotherapy, nutrition, and psychology.

Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme

Get qualified in sports coaching

We provide a range of National Governing Body sports coaching qualifications to enrich your CV and employability.

View coaching qualifications

Explore more

  • Sport and physical activity

    Whether you're a complete beginner, an elite performer, studying sport or just want to make the most of your gym membership, we have something for everyone at The University of Central Lancashire.

  • Explore the outdoors

    Your well-being is important to us, so we encourage you to get outdoors to enjoy nature, adventure, and fresh air. So when you need a rest, take a well-earned break from our bustling city centre campus and explore Lancashire's great outdoors.

  • Food and drink

    There are plenty of inviting restaurants and bars throughout the city for students on a budget. Try our student recipes or treat yourself to a meal out to discover tastes from around the world.