Wednesday Night Lights: The annual charity lacrosse match in memory of a Bristol student

Come to Coombe Dingle this Wednesday (30th October) for UBLC’s charity match against Exeter to pay tribute to Matt Ward

4 weeks ago

As reading week draws to a close and we all return to university life, it is the perfect time to recognise and celebrate the role of Bristol Uni’s societies in fostering a sense of community and charity.

Bristol Uni’s Lacrosse Club is one such society. An annual game organised by UBLC in memory of Matt Ward, a Bristol Men’s Lacrosse player who died four years ago, Wednesday Night Lights is returning this month.

Chosen by Matt’s family, the annual event raises money for a different charity every year and will be held this Wednesday (30th October) between Bristol and Exeter at the Coombe-Dingle Sports Complex.

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Events such as Wednesday Night Lights have been created through cooperation between the club, students, and the public.

Bristol and Exeter are the biggest university lacrosse rivals in the South-West of England.

Exeter Uni has two lacrosse premiership titles, whilst Bristol Uni has four titles, making this a high-stakes match for both teams this season.

What’s more, Bristol has never lost the Wednesday Night Lights match, adding pressure to the team.

In previous years, charities such as Samaritans were chosen in honour of Matt, but this year, the Charlie Waller Trust was selected by the Wards.

The Charlie Waller Trust was set up in the name of the charming and kind Charlie Waller, a talented actor and rugby player who took his own life in 1997.

In memory of Charlie, this charity is dedicated to increasing the conversation around depression and mental health amongst young people.

Since 1997, its work has become widespread within schools, colleges, universities, and employers.

Through consultancy, teaching, and providing educational resources, the Charlie Waller Trust has created partnerships with 24 colleges and 18 universities nationally.

Credit: Peter Smith

To attend and celebrate Wednesday Night Lights and pay tribute to Matt Ward, proof of donation to the Waller Trust is necessary.

Those looking to attend can donate however much they want, and the primary focus is to enjoy the match alongside the commentary and music accompanying the game.

If you’re worried about trekking up to Coombe Dingle, the university has set up a free bus to shuttle students between Tyndall Avenue and the Sports Complex from 10am to 10pm. The full timetable can be found on the UOB sport Instagram.

Donations can be made at the match or online.