AU Ball to be held at St. Mary's Stadium

AU Ball will be held in St Mary’s Stadium, the first change in venue for the event for many years


Athletic Union Committee has voted almost unanimously to move the venue of the AU Ball to Southampton FC’s St Mary’s stadium. In previous years the event has been held at Southampton’s Guildhall, a venue which has been criticised in the past.

Members were swayed by the substantially cheaper prices on drinks and dining; better quality of venue and the more exclusive nature of a more intimate event. The Stadium offers a red carpet reception with guests arriving to the ball via pitchside.

Objections were raised over the lower capacity of St Mary’s and higher prices for non-dining tickets. The AU Ball will have a maximum capacity of 700, meaning demand for the event will be sky high.

What dining ticket holders can expect

Prices have been confirmed as £49 for a dining ticket and £24 for non-dining. SUSU will be laying on minibuses to the venue and promise to provide entertainment and a guest speaker. Unlike in previous years there is no admin fee or processing charge for buying the tickets, a change likely to be welcomed by students.

VP Sports Development Jonny Brooks told The Tab:

I’m really excited about the potential for this year’s AU Awards Ball. The planning for this event began in the summer…I’m confident this could be the best AU Ball yet!

The ball will be held on Wednesday 25th of April with tickets on sale around easter break.