Clubs and sports teams
There are over 30 clubs that compete both nationally and locally. We also have over 20 sports teams competing in BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) leagues every Wednesday, as well as other competitions throughout the year. This includes our annual 'Clash of the Minsters' competition against York St John University.
All clubs provide weekly training sessions led by qualified coaches and equipment.
Elite performance
Our performance programmes support those who perform and compete at a high level.
You can access support if you compete either in a team or individual sport as part of our Elite Athlete Scheme. You'll also receive opportunities to represent the City of Sunderland as part of the Team Sunderland National League programme.
As a University student, you'll be able to access discounted rates at the Performance Clinic based in CitySpace. The Clinic offer an integrated team approach in injury management, assessing, treating and rehabilitating your injuries, while analysing the cause and offering a complete package of care to prevent further injuries.
Just Play
Just Play is about participation, not competition. The aim is to get you active at your own pace.
It's an ideal way to meet new people and allow yourself to try something new without any pressure or expectation. There are opportunities available every week, from wellbeing walks to pickleball sessions.
Just Play membership gives you access to the following:
- Walks
- Climbing
- Netball
- Table Tennis
- Badminton
- Pickle Ball
- Running Club
- 3x3 Basketball
- Esports
- Pool
- Dodgeball
Sessions are available for non-members to attend for £5 per session.
CitySpace fitness and gym membership
CitySpace Fitness is the University’s iconic facility for sports and social activity on City Campus. It's home to a wide range of sport, fitness, and wellness activities. These include BUCS, Team Sunderland clubs, Elite Athlete Support, community outreach, and more.
Facilities include:
- State-of-the-art fitness suite and strength and conditioning room
- A group exercise studio which accommodates an extensive range of classes
- A six badminton court sports hall
- Climbing wall with eight routes (seven fitted with auto-belaying devices, enabling you to climb by yourself)
- Sports massage and injuries clinic (see The Performance Clinic website(opens in new tab) for further information)
Memberships
CitySpace Fitness membership packages have been have been designed to offer flexibility, value for money, and a high standard experience.
Fitness classes
We provide a fantastic range of specialist and conventional classes, in a relaxed, safe, and social environment. From Body Pump and Abs Blast to Yoga and Pilates, there's something for everyone.
All classes are free for CitySpace Fitness members. For non-members, each class costs £6.50.
You can book a class using the CitySpace Fitness App, or by contacting the CitySpace Fitness reception.
Sports hall
CitySpace Fitness features a large modern sports hall with spectator seating. Team Sunderland use the space for training, fixtures and competition. It's also used for casual bookings to play 5-a-side football, netball, table tennis, basketball, badminton, and short tennis. You can book seven days in advance, subject to availability.
| Hall set-up | Member cost | Non-member cost |
|---|---|---|
| Table tennis | Free | £7 |
| Single court | Free | £10 |
| Half court | £35 | £40 |
Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA)
Students and staff can access our 40m x 20m MUGA (located at the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's) free of charge if you have a valid campus card.
Climbing wall
Our 7m climbing wall simulates the curvature and complexity of natural rock. The routes are designed and graded to welcome experienced and novice climbers.
Our auto belays are perfect if you are new to climbing, don’t know how to belay, or want to spend your time climbing on the wall rather than taking turns to act as a belay partner.
Climbing wall sessions are £20 for your first induction and then £6.50 per session, or free if you have a CitySpace Fitness membership.
Contact us
To book any fitness classes or personal training sessions, or to hire the sports hall, climbing wall or MUGA, contact us:
Phone: 0191 515 2009
Email: cityspaceenquiries@sunderland.ac.uk
Community
The University is committed to being an active civic institution, part of a two-way process with the local and wider area.
The community and outreach work carried out by the Institute of Sport encompasses this statement. Our involvement with the local area is increasing year on year and we are now part of many new and exciting projects working with partners such as HEFCE, Tyne & Wear Sport, Sport England, SUNEE, and the local council.
Our work includes:
- School sport: We're always looking for ways to develop our students and provide you with experiences that will help you excel in the working world. Helping schools deliver their sport programmes is a great way to gain experience.
- Disability groups: We have an inclusive football team that trains and plays regularly. For more information on training session times and how to get involved, email andy.turnbull@sunderland.ac.uk.
- Family and kids activity: We're committed to creating more opportunities for young people to participate, train, and compete in their chosen sport. For example, tailored sports camps run during school term breaks each year. These specialised camps are available to players of all levels of experience.
- Cultural support groups: We offer people from a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds, including Asylum seekers, the opportunity to take part in weekly sport and physical activity. We work with external support groups, such as Young Asian Voices, and local church groups to promote a joint approach, utilising student volunteers to aid in the delivery of such sessions.
- Local league teams: We offer opportunities for students, alumni, and community members to represent the University in local league competitions for Netball and Basketball.