The Edinburgh Napier Knights will take to the field in the annual Varsity game this week
Final preparations are underway for one of the biggest events in Edinburgh Napier University’s sporting season – the Varsity American football game.
First staged in 2012, the fixture sees the Edinburgh Napier Knights take on the University of Edinburgh Mavericks.
The fixture returns to Meggetland Stadium, near ENU’s Craiglockhart campus, on Wednesday 20 March, with a 7pm kick off.
The Mavericks are the current holders of the MacKenzie's Challenge Trophy, after edging last year’s game in a 14-6 victory.
The encounter always proves popular for the spectacle on and off the pitch, with entertainment this time around including a DJ, the Edinburgh Rampant medieval Armour Combat Team, and the Edinburgh University Brass Band. The Canalside Bar at Boroughmuir rugby club will be open throughout with hot food available.
Over the years the Edinburgh Napier Knights have developed a reputation for developing promising American football players, and playing a positive role in the local community.
Edinburgh Napier Knights Head Coach and Club Chairman Pete Laird said: “After a Covid-enforced break, the Varsity game returned with a bang last year.
“We had no idea if a post-season midweek fixture would work, but with our ongoing fight against the Scottish weather we felt it was worth a shot.
“The response was fantastic. A bumper crowd, under the floodlights definitely gave the game even more of an edge. The event with all its noise, colour, and general craziness really caught the imagination.
'We've already played, and lost, to our cross-town rivals twice this season in very close encounters. This year’s Varsity game allows us the opportunity to get some revenge against them on the big stage, where it matters the most.”
The 2024 Varsity Game
Where: Meggetland Sports Complex, Edinburgh
When: Wednesday 20 March
Tickets: £5 for adults, £3 students and free for U16s. Can be purchased in advance or on the gate