We compete in the 1st Division of the National Association of Medical Schools (NAMS) Cup. The league begins with group-stage fixtures against other medical schools in the South West region, before moving into national knock-out rounds after Christmas. Group-stage matches against Southampton, Peninsula (Plymouth & Exeter), Swansea, and Cardiff provide some of the toughest and most competitive rugby on offer, alongside a number of friendlies against universities and local clubs.

 

One of the highlights of the season is Medics Varsity against Cardiff. Every sport between the two rival medical schools plays on the same day, with the overall winner crowned at the end. The 1XV rugby fixture traditionally closes the event, drawing the biggest crowd and providing one of the fiercest contests of the year.

 

The knock-out stages then pit us against the best medical schools from across the UK, culminating in NAMS Finals Day, where the Men’s 1XV Cup, Women’s Cup, Men’s 1XV Plate, and Men’s 2XV Cup titles are all decided.

 

After more than a decade of growth, UBHRFC now ranks among the very best medical school rugby clubs in the country. Recent honours include three second-tier championships (2017/18, 2020/21, and 2022/23) before being crowned National Champions in 2023/24.