Last night, over 1,900 University of Edinburgh students came together for the 2025 Edinburgh University Sports Ball, a spectacular evening dedicated to celebrating the incredible talent and achievements of the university’s athletes, sports clubs, intramural teams, and volunteers. The event, held at the EICC, is a highlight of the university calendar, showcasing the vibrant spirit and commitment of the UoE Sport community. Pavilion Association Cup – for Best Publicity Record Ladies RugbyEdinburgh University Ladies Rugby raised the standard for publicity in 2023/24, becoming Scotland’s most followed women’s-only rugby team.With 2.4k Instagram followers, 125k views on their Empower Her video, and a viral post with 440k views from a collaboration with The Good, The Scaz & The Rugby, their reach continues to grow. Their content includes player spotlights, live score updates, and collaborations with photographers, resonating with both sports and broader social causes. The club’s partnerships highlighted both national and university achievements, while also promoting initiatives like Movember and GiveBlood4Good, inspiring over 45 members to donate. Captain S.T. Garner - First Year Athlete of the Year Adam Hamill - KarateHe had an exceptional 2023-24 season, claiming both the Scottish and British Championship titles in the Under-21 and Senior divisions. At just 18, Adam became the youngest member of the Scottish National Karate Team to compete in senior male team kumite at the European Championships. He also won BUCS gold and went on to represent Edinburgh at the European University Championships in Hungary. Outside of competition, Adam is a second year Sports Science student at the School of Moray House and a cornerstone of the University Karate Club, regularly performing demonstrations, coaching, and inspiring his teammates. Participation Award SnowsportsEdinburgh University Snowsports Club made a significant impact in 2023/24 by prioritising inclusion, accessibility, and community. They offered six fully funded places on their ski trip to Tignes, covering lessons, travel, and accommodation for those unable to afford it. Their “Learn in a Day” programme taught beginners to ski for just £35, and four Widening Participation students received reserved places in weekly lessons. The club also tackled gender imbalance in snowsports with their “Gals Who Shred” freestyle sessions, empowering women in a male-dominated discipline. A new recreational membership also attracted those who wanted to enjoy snowsports without competing, offering access to free equipment hires and dry slope sessions. Ian Stevens Alumni Award - For outstanding commitment to the promotion and delivery of strong links with Alumni Boat ClubEdinburgh University Boat Club has excelled in fostering strong alumni connections through innovative communication and meaningful events. Their Instagram and bi-annual newsletter keep alumni updated on achievements and developments, while their website highlights both current activities and alumni successes, such as victories at the Henley Royal Regatta. Annual events like the Bowball Winter Dinner and the Henley Drinks Reception attract alumni from multiple generations. Crucially, alumni donations funded new telemetry equipment, enhancing training and showcasing the club’s enduring legacy. Vancouver Quaich - for Male Athlete of the Year Archie Goodburn - Swimming On the international stage, Archie represented Team GB at the European Short Course Championships, earning a silver medal in the Men’s 4x50m Medley Relay and setting a new Scottish Record in the 50m Breaststroke. He also reached three individual finals. Within BUCS competitions his dominance was evident where he won six gold medals across Short and Long Course competitions, cementing his place as one of the country’s top university swimmers. Archie has exemplified resilience, excellence, and determination in the face of extraordinary challenges over the past year. A Masters student in Chemical Engineering, Archie has seamlessly balanced his demanding academic studies with a stellar swimming career. Intramural Committee Award - for Intramural Team Development Olympique de MarsheilleFounded in 2021, Olympique de Marsheille had a transformative 2023/24 season, expanding from 5-a-side to 11-a-side football with plans for a women’s team. Team members represent over 15 nationalities with a team emphasises on inclusivity and engagement. Events like the 2024 Marsheille Ball and open cardio sessions at the Meadows have boosted participation and fostered a vibrant, diverse community. Col R.B Campbell - Most Improved Club of the Year Motorsport The Motorsport Club has experienced remarkable growth, with membership rising by 46% in 2023/24 and delivering its best-ever competitive results. Strategic efforts, such as reducing membership fees and increasing event offerings, made motorsport more accessible to all. Beginner-focused events and a revived championship race saw recreational karting participation surge. Competitively, the club achieved top 15 finishes in the British Universities Karting Championship. The club also secured a £5,000 grant to provide race suits, ensuring opportunities for all members. Collaborations with motorsport organisations and volunteering opportunities set the stage for future success. Livingstone Trophy - Outstanding Expeditionary Achievement Bryony Agar and Alastair Shapland - CanoeIn Summer 2024, Alastair Shapland and Bryony Agar of the Canoe Club joined the British Universities Kayak Expedition to Guatemala. Over six intense weeks, they achieved multiple “first descents” — the first-ever successful paddling of sections on rivers such as the Valparaiso, Upper Río Azul, Upper Putul, and Chisoy. This is one of the highest honours in kayaking, showcasing skill, determination, and exploration. The expedition was entirely self-supported, with the team carrying all their food and camping gear in their kayaks. The team’s trip wasn’t only about adventure. They partnered with Casasito, a non-profit school, to teach English to local children, providing vital educational support in a region with few resources. This expedition exemplifies the spirit of exploration and community, combining groundbreaking achievements with a commitment to education and cultural exchange. Eva Bailey Cup – Female Athlete of the Year Megan Keith - Athletics Megan’s exceptional season has firmly established her as a world-class athlete. She dominated the European Cross Country Championships, winning U23 gold by a record-breaking margin of 1 minute 23 seconds. On the track, she ran the Olympic qualifying standard in the 10,000m (30:36), placing 4th on the British all-time list, and ran 14:43 in the 5000m, ranking 5th all-time. Megan secured her Olympic spot by winning the British 10,000m Championships and added a European bronze medal to her collection. She is a student in the school of Moray House and also a dedicated member of the Hare and Hounds club, leading the women’s team to victory at the National Cross Country Relay Championships. Services to Sport Awards - To individuals for major services to their Club and/or to University sports. Bella Grainger - Boxing As Boxing Club Vice President, Bella went above and beyond, taking on multiple committee responsibilities, coaching sessions, and leading the club through a period of growth. Bella boosted female participation, secured additional coaching resources, and fostered sustainability initiatives. Her dedication made her a respected and invaluable leader in the club. Cameron Wilson - Athletics Cameron held many leadership and coaching positions in 2023/24, as Athletics Treasurer, he transformed the club financial stability, introduced cost-saving initiatives, and developed partnerships that expanded training opportunities. His voluntary S&C coaching doubled attendance, reduced injuries, and resulted in the clubs first Scottish Student Sport Championship win in 14 years. Cameron’s inclusive coaching, mentorship, and dedication to the club has been recognised by members and beyond. Connie Chen – Athletics Connie revitalised the Athletics club’s throwing discipline as 2023/24 Throws Secretary, increasing training sessions, participation, and performance. She mentored individuals to ensure continuity, and volunteered extensively with SU Media and Scottish Student Sport, promoting and supporting athletics events. Connie’s leadership and encouragement have been pivotal to the club’s success and community spirit. Joe Hudd – Orienteering Joe’s contributions as Orienteering Club Vice-Captain included organising training camps and was integral in the 2024 Big Weekend Orienteering event planning. His efforts generated significant financial success and boosted the club’s reputation. Joe’s support for members and dedication to advancing orienteering had a significant impact on the club. Hannah Gray - Snowsports As Snowsports Club President, Hannah not only performed at an elite level in ski racing, but championed inclusion, securing funded trip places and promoting participation grants. She inspired others through her coaching, competitive success, and advocacy for women in snowsports. The club culture is reflective of the kindness, positive and a 'give it a go' attitude Hannah led with. Elinor Greenshields – Trampoline Elinor was the 2023/24 Trampoline Club President, as well as contributing as club coach and competition judge. She advanced the club’s coaching structure, mentored aspiring coaches, and introduced the new Double Mini Trampoline discipline, securing funding and equipment for its launch. Her ambition and leadership have left a legacy on the club. Owen Wilkinson - Triathlon As Triathlon Club President, Owen transformed the club structure to benefit the club financially and foster inclusivity. He organised major trips, initiated long-term planning, and mentored members, ensuring the club’s sustainability. His leadership has built a thriving community, significantly increasing membership and positioning the club for continued success. Neil Campbell Shield - For outstanding sports organisation and services Rosie Sumsion – Shinty Rosie Sumsion’s dedication and contributions to the Shinty Club during the 2023/24 academic year prioritised inclusivity, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. Her transformative work has not only strengthened the club’s culture but also established her as a champion of inclusivity and a role model for student leaders. Her introduction of weekly Wellbeing Talks at training sessions tackled crucial topics such as mental health and energy deficiency in sports, fostering open dialogue and support across all teams. Rosie also revived the Welcome Pack for new members, creating an accessible resource that eased newcomers’ transition, particularly for neurodivergent and anxious individuals, driving a significant rise in recruitment and retention. During a period of bereavement, Rosie exemplified leadership and compassion, providing mental health resources and assuming additional roles to support her team. Beyond university, she bridged student and community shinty, mentoring new players and encouraging their engagement with local clubs. Rosie’s tireless efforts to promote wellbeing, inclusivity, and community have transformed the Shinty Club. Her remarkable leadership and unwavering support for others make her a deserving recipient of the Neil Campbell Shield. Presidents’ Trophy - Team of the Year Orienteering Women’s Team The Orienteering Women’s Team dominated university and national competitions in a remarkable 2023/24 season. They retained their BUCS title with a clean sweep of the podium in individual and relay events, while also leading the Orienteering Club to victory at the SSS Championships. They clinched the British Relay title and held five out of six spots on the women’s team at the World University Orienteering Championships, representing their university and Great Britain with skill and determination. This team exemplifies the power of collaboration in an individual sport, recognised as they were awarded the BUCS Team of the Year award in summer 2024. Vice Presidents Trophy - Intramural Team of the Year History Girls Netball Club The History Girls Netball Club stood out in the 2023/24 season, securing the IM Netball League title after an undefeated second semester. Their achievements extended beyond the court, as they raised over £1,200 for Strut Safe, a charity dedicated to improving night-time safety. HGNC also took significant steps to secure their future by expanding their committee, securing sponsorship, and maintaining affordable membership fees to ensure netball remains accessible to all. Their impressive combination of sporting success and community impact sets this team apart from others. Lilywhite Shield - Club of the Year Cheerleading and Dance The 2023/24 season marked outstanding achievements for the Cheerleading and Dance Club, including five first-place wins at the Scottish Championships and three national titles at the UK National Championships. With 125 members, the club fostered inclusivity through initiatives like “Mindful Mondays” and a Strava challenge that raised £600 to support competition fees. Additionally, members raised £1,990 for Say Women through fundraisers, including a successful annual showcase with over 220 attendees. This article was published on 2025-01-24