Whilst NFL teams the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers jet into London this week for the annual International series game at Wembley, closer to home rival university teams unveiled a spectacular new trophy to be contested for in this seasons American Football Varsity game. The annual matchup between Edinburgh Napier Knights and the Edinburgh University Predators is to be played at Meggatland Stadium on Sunday 5th February 2012 in what will be a show piece event for the sport in Scotland.

The trophy has been designed by artist Scott Irvine of ‘Harmonies in Wood’ and features a V shape made from Scottish elm symbolising a player catching a ball. The centre piece of the trophy includes a rotating football which can be turned to show the coloured glass of blue or red for the winning team. Weighing in at an impressive 12kgs the Varsity trophy provides an inspirational centre piece to the big game and has been paid for by donations from both universities alumni funds.

‘The trophy is stunning’ according to Edinburgh Napier Knights Head Coach Pete Laird. ‘The intricate engraving & colouring really make this a unique trophy. I’ve never seen anything quite like it and can’t wait for the big day to arrive. It is now up to the lads on the team to make sure they win it, and bring it home to Napier’s trophy cabinet.’

Equally motivated was Edinburgh University’s coach Stewart Adam. ‘I’d like to thank the universities for getting behind this game and I’m sure both teams will put on a great show for all the fans of the sport and the students of both institutions who turn up on the day. It’s going to be a great event’

Sponsored by the 3 Sisters Bar, the Varsity game will be the largest student sporting event to be held in Scotland next year and is offering free entry for students and all other concessions at Meggatland stadium.

The Varsity game has only been competed between the two adversaries since 2009, with one victory apiece and the Knights as the current holders. The growth of interest in American Football and the increasing popularity of student sports have meant a larger venue was required for interested students and spectators of the cross-town adversaries.

The Varsity game is a special one off event that is part of the regular season of fixtures competed by the two universities in the British Universities American Football League (BUAFL). The League has six conferences spanning Great Britain with over 60 teams competing for the prestigious National Championship. With 10 teams competing for only 2 places in the playoff round from the Border Conference the Varsity game proves pivotal in deciding who will compete in the post-season.

The game date also coincides with Superbowl Sunday and will be part of the Knights 'Day of Football' which concludes with their annual Superbowl Party at the 3 Sisters Bar in the Cowgate.

(Article date: 18 Oct '11)