The University of East London edged out the Anglia Ruskin University in the 2022 Challenge Cup by defeating them in seven out of the 12 sports which took place all around the SportsDock as well as Mabley Green.
Our Rising East reporters managed to grab some interviews with a couple of the UEL athletes as well as a coach ahead of their competitions on the day and these were some of their thoughts and feelings heading into the cup.
Taekwondo
Before her competition, Kerry St John sat down with some of our reporters and talked about her feelings heading into the Challenge Cup. ‘I’m looking forward to today… This is my first Challenge Cup appearance but I have competed in other competitions recently this past weekend. I do get anxious before competitions but then I will listen to some music, walk around and stretch to prepare… I plan to continue participating in Taekwondo events in the future as it helps me focus mentally and physically.’
Unfortunately, UEL were defeated in the taekwondo competition on the day.
Volleyball
Both UEL volleyball men’s and women’s teams came out victorious over Anglia Ruskin University.
Before the matches, we caught up with Vladimir who plays for the UEL men’s volleyball team and is also a former Anglia Ruskin student. ‘I feel a sense of pride and responsibility. I want to prove why I deserve to be a player for both amazing universities and amazing sports departments.’
Basketball
UEL women’s basketball coach Tope Alli spoke on how important these Challenge Cup games are for his team not just to claim victory for UEL but also going forward in their season.
‘A big performance is needed for today. 100% we need to win this to put us in the right mindset for our next two big playoff games that are a must-win.’
