Three new sports bursaries launched with local clubs
UEA has announced the launch of three externally funded sports bursaries in collaboration with leading local sports clubs. These new awards support students competing in swimming, men’s rugby, and women’s football. The bursaries are part of formalised partnerships with North Walsham Rugby Football Club, Norwich City Women’s Football Club, and the City of Norwich Swimming Club (CONSC), strengthening the ties between UEA and the wider sporting community.
Swimming bursary in partnership with City of Norwich Swimming Club (CONSC)
The swimming bursary, offered in collaboration with CONSC, provides financial support for high-performance swimmers entering UEA. In addition to financial assistance—ranging from £500 to £1,500—students benefit from access to top-level coaching, athlete support services, and world-class facilities.
Alex Pinniger, Head Coach at CONSC, commented:
“This bursary is the icing on the cake. It enables swimmers to fund additional development opportunities such as international competitions, complementing the wider support they receive at UEA. We’re excited to support student-athletes on their journey.”
Rugby bursary in partnership with North Walsham RFC
The North Walsham RFC bursary reflects a long-standing and growing relationship between UEA and the club. It offers student-athletes the opportunity to play both BUCS university rugby and senior club rugby at the highest level in Norfolk.
Phil Anthony, Rugby Operations Director at North Walsham RFC, explained:
“We’ve developed a strong partnership with UEA, with shared coaching and a clear alignment of values. We’re delighted to support students like Archie Bryant, whose impact on the club has been significant. This bursary strengthens our shared vision for rugby development in the region.”
Women’s football bursary in partnership with Norwich City Women
The bursary scheme with Norwich City Women’s Football Club supports talented female footballers studying at UEA. The aim is to ensure that aspiring players are able to pursue their academic goals while developing as elite athletes.
Flo Allen, Head of Women’s Football at the club, said:
“Our partnership with UEA reflects a shared commitment to supporting female footballers as students, athletes, and individuals. With UEA’s strong academic environment and cultural support, we’re excited to grow this partnership and create more opportunities for talented women.”
Wider athlete support through uea+sport scholarships
Alongside the new bursaries, uea+sport continues to offer a range of scholarships for high-performing athletes. These packages provide both financial aid and access to sport science support, helping athletes perform at their best while managing the demands of university life.
Applying for support
Applications are open for both the new bursaries and existing uea+sport scholarships. These awards are available to students starting their higher education journey in September 2026 and beyond. Although applications remain open all year round for students interested in applying for future academic years.
Applicants are assessed based on:
- Level of sporting performance
- Commitment to both sport and academic study
- Potential to contribute to UEA and club programmes
Student voices: bursary and scholarship recipients
The impact of these partnerships is already being felt by students currently studying and competing with UEA and its partner clubs. From high-performance rugby players balancing medical degrees, to elite swimmers chasing international competition, and aspiring footballers growing their careers on and off the pitch, these student-athletes are a testament to what’s possible with the right support.
Read what they had to say:
Archie Bryant – rugby scholar and Norwich Medical School student
“Being linked with North Walsham Rugby Club whilst at UEA has been an incredible opportunity to pursue both my academic and athletic passions. The support from UEA—from physio to professional coaching—has allowed me to thrive on the field while managing a demanding degree.”
Connor Dudley – rugby scholar and MSc Business student
“The link between UEA and Walsham has grown massively over the past two years. It’s elevated my rugby career and introduced me to performance analysis, which I now lead at the university. It’s something I’d love to build a career out of.”
Olivier Vedrenne – swimming scholar and Economics student
“I’m proud to be a UEA Elite Scholar. The programme allows me to continue competitive swimming while pursuing my degree. From nutrition to sports psychology and competition funding, the support has made a huge difference to my development.”
Ceri Flye – football bursary recipient and PE, Sport & Health student
“Being accepted onto the bursary has been amazing. It’s made balancing my sporting and academic commitments possible, with access to everything from the gym and pool to physio and nutritional support.”
Lauren Hales – football bursary recipient and Physical Activity & Health student
“The bursary has helped me connect with both the university and the football club in meaningful ways. I feel more confident in my future as an athlete and professional. The support I’ve received so far has been outstanding.”
