Cambridge chorister plays rugby in Varsity match

7 December 2012, 11:14 | Updated: 7 December 2012, 11:21

King's College Choir are renowned in Cambridge and across the world for their unique Christmas performances. But one choral scholar has swapped Rutter for rugby, missing rehearsals to play in the annual Varsity match between Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

A chorister from King's College Cambridge made an unexpected transition from angelic choirboy to aggressive rugby player yesterday, taking a break from Christmas rehearsals to play in the annual Varsity match between Oxford and Cambridge Universities. Classics student Rob Stephen, 20, was given permission by the choirmaster to play for the university team instead of attending rehearsals this week.

Rob said his teammates had been supportive of his diverse extra-curricular activities. Speaking to The Telegraph, he said: “I do get a bit of stick for being a choirboy. But some of them appreciate the challenge of balancing different activities. They came to a service a couple of weeks ago, and that was good because it gave them a glimpse into what else I do.”

Oxford University beat Cambridge 26-19 in yesterday's match, the 131st Varsity match since 1872. Previous players include rugby greats like Alexander Obolensky, David Kirk and Joe Roff.