Over fifty years ago, a rivalry began between two colleges. Whilst many have tried, no other inter-college rivalry is even worthy to be spoken in the same breath as Founders. Every year, these two colleges again put everything on the line in order to stake their claim as the best college to found Lancaster University. The rivalry shows no sign of abating; in fact, many would argue that it is fiercer than ever.
It was not until 2004, when Lonsdale relocated to South West campus, that the battle we know so well today was born…. The Founders Series, set in motion by Samuels of Bowland and Shepard of Lonsdale has been gathering speed ever since. They fought for the rivalry to continue and to grow despite our separation, and so it has. Each year, Lancaster University holds its breath in anticipation until that fateful weekend in June were they can once again witness two colleges lock horns in some of the most ferociously fought sport that one could ever wish to see. Nineteen sports contended over four days and a total of 32 events stand between our college and victory.
Members of the winning college shall forever be immortal in Founders memory, whether you are competing in anything from darts to football, or devotedly following your esteemed sports-men and -women from the bars to the pitches and the courts. Rest assured you will never forget your first Founders Series, the feeling of belonging in your college. Victories may come and go, but your college will stay with you forever. You need only look at the sheer volume of old boys and girls who return unfailingly year after year to see what this title means to both sides.
Since the introduction of Pre-Founders in Fresher’s Week, current students have been able to build the hatred levels to tipping point, whilst rubbing their hands ominously as another generation of Founders winning students are born. Throughout the year hype is build around Lonsdale versus Bowland sports fixtures, and we drag you down in your droves to prepare you. This is what it all comes down to.
Some people believe that Founders is a matter of life and death. I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.
Despite the fierce competition and grizely looks you may receive from respective colleges, we hope that all students will actively engage in the weekend’s activities and that nobody will feel targeted as a result of how they identify themselves. We are a diverse university and college, aiming to be inclusive, so we ask for your support through the entire weekend for all of those who participate, organise, or spectate.