University Bridge

University bridge is social, competitive and a great way to meet people

EBED supports university bridge clubs, student competitions and new players taking their first steps into the wider bridge community.

Playing cards arranged to represent the game of bridge.

Start a club

You don't need much to get university bridge going. EBED can supply equipment, and the EBU University Award Scheme offers up to £1,000 to students who start or restart a bridge club on campus.

University bridge players celebrating after winning the Portland Bowl."

Enter competitions

University players can take part in student bridge events, including the Portland Bowl, university matches and online competitions. There are opportunities for newer players as well as experienced partnerships.

University students playing a social game of bridge together in shared accommodation.

Student life

Bridge is social, strategic and easy to fit around university life. It is a great way to meet people, build a club community and enjoy a game that can be played casually or competitively.

Student life

Bridge has been a great way to meet people I might never otherwise have met...

— University bridge player

Student clubs run regular duplicate sessions, welcome beginners and organise matches against other universities. Many players arrive with experience from school bridge, while others discover the game for the first time at university.

EBU University Award Scheme

The scheme is designed incentivise and reward students for the effort and initiative required to establish, promote and build a successful club. Make it happen, and you could receive £1000 for your own pocket, and public recognition on our website.

Requirements

Year 1

  • R
    Become recognised Student Union Society
  • R
    Invite EBED to give a taster session
  • R
    Recruit members to the club
  • R
    Get free equipment from EBED or County
  • R
    Meet and play bridge!
  • i
    Report back to us on your achievements
  • Earn £300

Year 2

  • R
    Play more bridge
  • R
    Recruit more members at Freshers' Fair
  • R
    Design some merchandise
  • Enter the Portland Bowl
  • i
    Report back to us on your achievements
  • Earn another £300

Year 3

  • Yes, you guessed it....
  • R
    .... play more bridge
  • R
    Recruit even more members
  • Implement a succession plan
  • Win the Portland Bowl??
  • i
    Final report back to us
  • Earn another £400

Testimonials

I’m very grateful to EBED for their support of Durham Bridge Club this year. Their help with Freshers’ Fair, funding a social, and providing teaching materials has made a real difference to our growth and engagement. The visit from Richard Croot was a particular highlight, introducing new members to the world of bridge.

Rosie F-D
Durham University

Testimonials

Reviving bridge at Oxford has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s been great to see a growing community of students engaging with such a challenging and social game. The support from the English Bridge Union has been invaluable in helping us rebuild and sustain the club.

Henry
Oxford University

Testimonials

Setting up and running a student bridge club is a wonderful experience: you get to meet other like-minded people, whilst seeing continued improvement and fun around you! Nurturing a lively atmosphere and getting young people playing bridge is truly rewarding.

Thibault Crosnier
Bristol University

Testimonials

Trying to set up a bridge club at University provides many challenges with finances and teaching. EBED have been incredibly generous with their offers to help with beginner introduction sessions, general teaching guidance, and the aid with equipment costs. When it comes to junior bridge EBED have proven themselves eager to help and Manchester Bridge Society is very lucky to have their support in this process.

Issy E
Manchester University

Testimonials

I am very excited to receive this honour and I look forward to seeing contract bridge in Oxford thrive once again

Linus
Oxford University