When I think of winter sports, I picture those freezing Tuesday evenings watching Wolves (my home team) play in the Championship many years ago. Clutching a steaming, though terribly tasting, hot chocolate just to keep my hands warm, wrapped in about three scarves, and wearing leggings under my jeans to survive the cold.
As we move deeper into autumn and the weather gets colder, it is tempting to stay in and watch sports from the comfort of home. However, it’s essential to get out there and support our local community. Here are some exciting events happening in York and Yorkshire this winter.
York City Football Club (Men’s) - LNER Community Stadium.
It is becoming increasingly difficult to get tickets to see the Minstermen. As I write this, they are currently third in the National League. With a brilliant start to their season, York is looking to capitalise on their good performances this winter.
Some home fixtures include:
- Ebbsfleet United (October 19)
- Barnet (October 22)
- Hartlepool United (November 9)
- Yeovil (November 23)
- Maidenhead United (November 30)
- Southend (December 21)
- Gateshead (January 1).
To get to the stadium from campus, you have a few options:
U1 or U2 buses: You can take these into town, or you can simply walk.
Once in town, take the number 9 bus from outside the Stonebow Co-op, which will drop you right outside the stadium at the Monks Cross Park and Ride stop.
Ticket Link: https://yorkcityfootballclub.co.uk/fixtures/
York City Football Club (Women’s) - York Sport Stadium.
With new manager Emily Senior at the helm, the Minsterbelles have a busy winter ahead. Despite a challenging start to their Division One North season, York Women are hoping for a fresh boost under their new leadership.
Tickets are only £5, and home matches are at York Sport Stadium on Campus.
For more Information see: https://www.facebook.com/YorkCityLadiesFC/?locale=en_GB
Snooker Championship 23 November to 1 December - York Barbican.
This is a highly popular event but there are only a limited number of tickets left. If you’re unable to get the tickets you want, the event will also be live-streamed on the BBC. I highly recommend booking tickets ASAP.
To get to the York Barbican from campus, you have two bus options:
U1 Bus: Get off at the St Lawrence Church stop. From there, it's a six minute walk to the venue.
U2 Bus: Get off at The Barbican stop, which is just a three minute walk from the venue.
You could also walk. It’s a 26-minute walk from Central Hall, but I’d recommend taking the bus during the colder and darker months for convenience and safety.
Ticket Link: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/uk-championship-snooker-tickets/artist/33353
Night at the Darts - 14 February 2025 - York Barbican
If you’re looking for something different to do on Valentine’s Day, or just want a unique date night, the darts could be a perfect choice! Big stars like Michael van Gerwen and, World Champion, Luke Humphries will be attending the first show of the year. Plus, there’s an exciting auction you can take part in.
Ticket Link: https://www.axs.com/uk/events/702631/a-night-at-the-darts-tickets?skin=yorkbarbican
Sports around York
There are plenty of other sporting events in Yorkshire, just a short train, bus, or car ride away. You can catch weekly football matches ranging from the Premier League and WSL to non-league games.
WWE - Live at Utilita Arena Sheffield November 6, 2024
WWE Live is coming to the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on November 6, offering fans an action-packed night of wrestling entertainment. Expect to see some of WWE's superstars in thrilling matches, full of high-energy stunts and drama. Definitely a must-see event for wrestling enthusiasts.
Ticket Link: https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/wwe-live-sheffield-06-11-2024/event/350060CEB2651947
Britain’s Strongest Man, 2025
Britain’s Strongest Man returns to the Utilita Arena in Sheffield on February 1 2025 and the First Direct Arena April 5 2025. Watch the nation’s top strongmen compete in incredible feats of strength, from lifting massive weights to pulling trucks.
Obviously funding this is hard financially as University students. But there are many opportunities to help volunteer at local sporting events, find student discounts, or at least try and watch them live.
In addition to these national sporting events, we have amazing sports teams here at the University of York you can watch for free!
