The Mayor of the East Midlands has hailed an Ultimate volunteering opportunity in Nottingham.
University of Nottingham Sport has been confirmed as the Official Volunteering and Workforce Development Partner for the upcoming World Masters Ultimate Club Championships 2026, building on the University’s longstanding commitment to community engagement and leadership development through major sporting events.
The 2026 World Masters Ultimate Club Championship will take place at the University of Nottingham and is anticipated to be one of the largest sporting events to come to Nottingham, with more than 3,500 players competing from 28 June to 4 July.
This collaboration is part of a broader Major Events Volunteering Pilot Project supported by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) and Nottingham City Council and funded from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The project aims to engage local communities and provide opportunities to learn, develop and gain new skills.
Building on University of Nottingham Sport’s student Volunteering and Leadership Academy, whose volunteers delivered more than 81,000 volunteer hours last year, a range of opportunities will be made available for all members of the community to be part of the event. Roles will include team liaison, event operations and city host and visitor experience.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This championship will bring thousands of athletes and visitors to our city, boosting the local economy and showcasing the warmth, talent and ambition of the East Midlands.
“By placing volunteering and workforce development at the heart of this event, we are building a lasting legacy which strengthens communities, develops skills and helps ensure everyone can share in the benefits of hosting world-class events.”
Si Hill, UK Ultimate chief executive officer, said: “UK Ultimate is thrilled to be returning to Nottingham to host The World Masters Ultimate Club Championships 2026. We are delighted to continue our long-term partnership with the University as the host venue and excited to confirm University of Nottingham Sport will be the Official Volunteering and Workforce Development Partner.
“This collaboration combines the global event with the University’s world-class Leadership Academy, offering a unique platform for the local community to develop skills and experience, whilst engaging with Ultimate players from across the world.
“With more than 3,500 athletes arriving in 2026, this partnership allows us to go beyond our standard approach to volunteer recruitment by utilising the University’s thriving Leadership Academy and its position within the local community. We are excited to offer these opportunities and bring Nottingham and Ultimate frisbee even closer together.”
Christine Bailey, University of Nottingham assistant director of sport, said: “University of Nottingham are proud to be the host venue and official volunteer & workforce development partner for the World Masters Ultimate Club Championships.
“Community engagement is central to delivering major sports events, providing opportunities to inspire, engage and create a sense of belonging through sport and physical activity.
“Through our Leadership Academy, we support several major events each year by recruiting, training and deploying volunteers to ensure a seamless and positive experience. We look forward to leading on volunteering and workforce development for this championship, placing volunteers at the heart of one of the largest sporting events to come to Nottingham, while supporting personal and professional development and a lasting legacy for the city.”
Click here to register your interest in volunteering at the World Ultimate Masters Club Championships. University of Nottingham Sport and UK Ultimate will also be hosting a recruitment event on 14 and 15 February 2026 at David Ross Sports Village. All are welcome to attend to find out more about the event volunteering roles. Details will be added here.
Published on: 28 January 2026
Categories: News, Skills and Employment, Visitor Economy