Student sportswomen storm to national finals

Student sportswomen have surged through to national finals – with the women’s volleyball and basketball teams gunning for gold.

The Essex Blades sides are through to the British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) showdown after winning at home.

Both will be vying for glory in the finals at BUCS Big Wednesday, in Higher Education’s highlight of the sporting calendar.

The Blades head to Loughborough University in two weeks for the hotly anticipated title decider.

The finals run follows Essex’s record breaking 2024 which saw the University become a top 30 sporting university for the first time in its 60-year history.

Dave Parry, Director of Sport, said: “We’re so proud of our BUCS players for getting to the finals and I just want to thank all the players, coaches, and wider sporting community for getting us there.

“Our volleyball and basketball teams have had amazing seasons and to get to finals really is a testament to everyone’s hard work and dedication.

"We are dedicated to our students making the most of their time at university whether that is on-court or in the lecture hall.

“Whether it is our BUCS teams, Rebels, or student societies, the University really is the home of sport in the Eastern Region.”

The action unfolded in an atmospheric Essex Sport Arena with students cheering on the teams on Wednesday.

The basketball team sunk Durham by 81-59 with Maria Blazejewskias Blades' top scorer.

And the volleyball side vanquished Newcastle University 3-1.

Lea Borovec was the Blades MVP contributing 16 kills, 2 aces and 1 block.

Alex Chinery, women’s head coach, congratulated his side and backed them to win after losing out in last year’s final.

“It’s exciting to be back at BUCS Big Wednesday this year,” he said.

“After last season’s heart-breaking end, the chance for redemption is in our sights.

“This group has worked incredibly hard and came through a tough semi-final to secure our spot. We’re ready to go one better than last year and cannot wait for the game in two weeks’ time!”

His thoughts were echoed by Ash Cookson, Head of Performance Basketball.

He said: “I'm very happy with the growth of our team throughout the season.

"Loughborough is always a special place to compete and I’m sure it will be a memorable game taking on the home team"

The men’s sides are also due to compete next week and hope to follow the women through to the championship deciders.

All pictures by Sanne Hoffman