Loughborough Students Rugby League (LSRL) stands as a formidable force in the university rugby league, embodying a commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
The team, based at Loughborough University in the heart of the East Midlands, showcases the institution’s dedication to nurturing athletic talent and fostering a sense of camaraderie among its students.LSRL currently competes at the highest level of the British University Championships (BUCS), with the first team being crowned champions of the Southern premier division for the 23/24 season with an unbeaten year in the league. The second team currently competes in the Midlands Tier 1 division, where they are in a close-fought battle for the league title and cup competition.
The club’s growth in recent years has stemmed from relentless playoff runs, reaching semi-final and quarter-finals, respectively. This allowed many players to represent their nations at competitions and fixtures. Last year, five current players represented their respective nations at the university’s four-nation competition, with Nathan Redmond and Luke Phoenix, winning with England Uni’s Rugby League.
Since then, this season has presented the team with new challenges and found eight players representing the South of England in the annual University Origins game, where the South picked up only their second-ever victory over the North.
The Midlands9s festival will provide a new test outside of the university landscape, enabling the club to demonstrate its passion and prowess within the rugby league community.