Sports Ball 2025 Award Shortlists Announced

In January we celebrate the 2025 Edinburgh University Sports Ball. The shortlists for the 2025 Sports Ball Awards, which cover the 2023/24 academic year.

First-year student who makes the most outstanding contribution to University sport

Adam Hamill - Karate 

Adam is a second year Sports Science student at the School of Moray House. He 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 cornerstone of the university Karate Club, regularly performing demonstrations, coaching, and inspiring his teammates.

Murray Bone – Boat Club 

Murray is a second year Economics student, and has an outstanding year in rowing, achieving remarkable success across multiple competitions. He won the Championship Pair at BUCS Regatta and represented Scotland at the Home International Regatta, where he played a pivotal role in the men’s eight’s historic victory—the first in over 20 years—alongside winning the men’s four. Domestically, Murray was crowned Scottish champion in the men’s pair and two fours (coxed and coxless), and earned silver at the Metropolitan Regatta in the championship coxed four. At 18, he surpassed U23 GB team standards on the rowing machine, making him one of the UK's brightest rowing prospects.

Nicole Flynn – Ladies Rugby 

Nicole studies Biological Science at the School of Biological Sciences, and had a standout year on both the international and domestic rugby stages. At just 18, she was selected for the 2024 Scotland Women's Six Nations squad, featuring in matchday squads against France and Ireland. She also excelled in the Scotland U20 summer series in Italy, finishing as joint top try-scorer, and played a crucial role for Edinburgh Rugby Women in the Celtic Challenge. Domestically, Nicole became the youngest capped Edinburgh player and scored the "Women's Club Rugby Try of the Year" in 2023. At university, she has been a top try-scorers in BUCS competition, with 11 tries.


For the club with the most outstanding commitment to the promotion and delivery of strong links with Alumni 

Basketball  

The Edinburgh University Basketball Club demonstrated exceptional alumni engagement in 2023/24, highlighted by their 75th Anniversary celebrations. A special exhibition game between current players and alumni drew an impressive turnout, followed by a vibrant social event where generations reconnected and shared memories. They utilised social media to consistently engage alumni, bridging the past and present while celebrating its rich history.

Boat

Edinburgh 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.

Motorsport

The Motorsport Club revitalised its alumni engagement in 2023/24 by leveraging their alumni Facebook group to share updates and opportunities. The 50-Year Alumni Event in April brought together 32 past members for a navigational rally and dinner, fostering cross-generational connections. Alumni played a crucial role in reintroducing Navigational Rallies, offering expertise and securing sponsorships. Their contributions have helped the club strengthen its community and promote its activities effectively. 


For the club with the best participation and inclusion offering in the Sports Union.

Karate

In 2023/24, Edinburgh University Karate Club prioritised inclusivity, offering tailored programs for all skill levels. They introduced beginner-friendly sessions focused on fitness and foundational skills, leading to increased novice participation. 

The club expanded access with free two-week trial sessions, along with free gradings and Gis to eliminate financial barriers. Their Queer Self-Defense seminar, open to the community, promoted inclusivity and raised funds for charity. Engagement in university initiatives like Stressbusters and the International Sports Club further demonstrated their commitment to accessibility and wellbeing. 

Korfball

Edinburgh University Korfball Club excelled in participation and inclusivity by embracing the sport’s values of equality. As a mixed-gender team sport, it naturally fosters an inclusive, beginner-friendly environment. 

The club launched a mini league, providing weekly match opportunities for members of all abilities, boosting participation. Committee members also undertook training in concussion management and active bystanding. Initiatives like Stressbusters, Rainbow Laces, and International Women’s Day celebrated mental health, inclusivity, and diversity.

Shinty

Edinburgh University Shinty Club achieved a remarkable 170% membership growth in 2023/24, driven by outreach to underrepresented groups, including women and international students. The club introduced improved taster sessions and Welcome Packs, fostering a sense of belonging. 

This effort led to the creation of the club’s first-ever women’s second team, a historic achievement in the SSS Shinty League. Their regular wellbeing talks at training, covering mental health and sport-related topics, ensured members felt supported.  

Snowsports

Edinburgh 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 WP 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 hire and dry slope sessions. 


For a most improved club of the year. 

Athletics 

The Athletics Club had a landmark 2023/24 season, being crowned Scottish Student Athletics Outdoors Champions for the first time in 14 years. Significant growth was seen across the club, including an expanded training schedule with double the track sessions, a sevenfold increase in field event training, and tailored strength and conditioning programmes. Alongside its competitive successes, the club fostered a sense of community through initiatives like “Star of the Week” awards, wellbeing potlucks, and volunteering at Broughton High School, inspiring the next generation of athletes. 

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. 

Shinty 

The 2023/24 season saw Edinburgh University Shinty Club undergo a transformation, with a 170% increase in membership. Recruitment initiatives and enhanced taster sessions led to the debut of a second women’s team, a first in Scottish Student Shinty league history. The club's competitive successes included the Men’s team winning the SSS Shinty League, the Women’s team securing second place, and winning the McHue-Porter Cup. Off the pitch, they engaged in Sports Union wellbeing initiatives like mental health talks, ConcussEd and Active Bystander training created a positive environment, while cultural celebrations, such as a ceilidh, helped honour the sport’s Scottish roots. 

Squash

The Squash Club made remarkable strides in 2023/24, achieving success in performance, participation, and inclusivity. The Women’s 1st team reached the BUCS Premier Division semi-finals, with the 2nd and 3rd teams finishing in the National Trophy Final and Semi-Final respectively. The club prioritised inclusion by introducing Women’s-Only taster sessions, attracting over 100 participants, and launching sober socials to ensure a welcoming environment for all. Intramural squash was revitalised with better player matching and team collaboration. Charitable efforts, such as raising £800 for Scottish Sports Futures through a Racketlon and wellbeing ceilidh, showcased the club’s commitment to community.

Tennis

The Tennis Club has had an exceptional year, with a strong focus on inclusivity and workforce development. The club introduced a varied weekly programme, including tennis, pickleball, and padel, catering to all skill levels. The development of student coaches, with five members regularly leading sessions and three completing coaching courses, has strengthened the club's foundation. Partnerships with Heriot-Watt University and East of Scotland enhanced training opportunities and access to indoor courts. Community engagement also flourished, with student coaches assisting at events benefiting over 100 local children. Wellbeing initiatives, such as stress-buster tennis sessions during exams, further strengthened the club’s supportive environment. 

 


Team of the Year 

Badminton Women’s 1’s

The Badminton Club’s Women’s 1st Team had a record-breaking 2023/24 season, marked by teamwork and excellence. They went undefeated in BUCS Mixed Scottish Tier 1, securing promotion to the BUCS Premier League for the first time in seven years with a dominant 8-0 playoff win. At BUCS Big Wednesday, they claimed the BUCS National Trophy, while at the SSS Championships, they swept gold in women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. The team’s success extended beyond competition, fostering a strong, supportive culture of coaching and mentorship.

Hockey Women’s 2’s

The Women’s Hockey 2nd Team delivered a phenomenal 2023/24 season, combining skill, dedication, and team spirit. They played 39 matches, winning 32 and scoring 94 goals. They secured promotion to BUCS Premier North after two playoff victories and reached the BUCS Trophy final at BUCS Big Wednesday. The team also retained their Scottish Hockey league title for the 7th consecutive year and claimed second place in the Scottish Plate. A welcoming and inclusive team culture underpinned their remarkable success.

Netball 1’s

The Netball Club’s 1st Team achieved their most successful season in over a decade, marked by historic milestones and unwavering dedication. They went undefeated in BUCS Scottish Tier 1, and secured promotion to BUCS Premier North 2 for the first time. They also triumphed in the National League, winning the final by just one point, and reached the Scottish Cup final, a significant improvement from the previous year. Their packed schedule included five training sessions a week, including performance analysis and strength and conditioning, driving their success.

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.

Rifle 1’s

The Rifle Club’s 1st Team had a stellar year, dominating student and domestic competitions while fostering a collaborative environment.They claimed 1st place at BUCS Indoor and Outdoor Championships, swept up at all SSS events, and set a new BUCS points record for the club. Beyond student events, they secured 2nd place in both the Lothian and Borders Team League and the Scottish Target Shooting Division 3. Their achievements reflect not only their skill but also their exceptional team spirit. 


For the club with the best publicity record

Boat  

Edinburgh University Boat Club has built a strong social media presence, with over 7,000 Instagram followers, combining professional media techniques with athlete storytelling to engage members, alumni, and the wider rowing community.

The club introduced new initiatives, such as "Meet the Athlete" videos and a media day for professional headshots, enhancing crew announcements. Their Loch Oich training camp also featured stunning drone footage.

Through partnerships with Junior Rowing News, British Rowing, and Scottish Rowing, the club’s athletes and achievements have gained national attention, further elevated their profile and fostered pride within the community.

Ladies Rugby  

Edinburgh University Ladies Rugby raised the standard for publicity in 2023/24, becoming Scotland’s most followed women-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.

Swimming & Water Polo

Edinburgh University Swimming and Water Polo Club demonstrated excellent publicity efforts, increasing engagement across all teams.

They created separate Instagram pages for each team, boosting visibility with unique yet cohesive branding. Posts highlighted match results, fundraising events, social activities, and university campaigns, regularly shared by members to reflect pride in their club.

The club supported university-wide initiatives, raising awareness for breast cancer, anti-racism, and mental health, while also running blood drives and fundraising for Movember. 


For Intramural team development 

Chinese Society FC

Chinese Society FC has become a cultural and athletic community, uniting players through football and fostering inclusivity. In the 2023/24 season, regular training, team-building events, and a "Buddy System" ensured new members felt supported. Social events and recruitment campaigns, including collaborations with EUCSA, expanded participation and built a diverse, close-knit community.

Medics Squash

Since its launch in February 2023, Medics Squash has grown rapidly, breaking down financial and experience barriers. Weekly sessions cater to all skill levels, increasing membership from 10 to over 30 in one year. The club runs on member fees and sponsorships, offering women-only taster sessions and collaborating with other Medics sports clubs. Their efforts helped raise £38,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust through Medics Reveal 2024.

Olympique de Marsheille (IM Football 5s)

Founded 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. 


For the most outstanding Intramural Club of the year 

Engineers RFC

Engineers RFC excelled throughout the 2023/24 season, claiming the IM Rugby League title with a 100% completion rate for their fixtures. Their season extended beyond league success as they participated in 7s tournaments across Scotland and hosted charity matches. These efforts raised £3,519 for Movember and £340 for MND research. They demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusivity, low-cost membership, and mental health awareness, making a remarkable impact on the Intramural sports community.

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.

Los ÑBA

Los ÑBA delivered an outstanding 2023/24 season, emerging as undefeated champions of the IM Basketball League. Known for their dynamic and inclusive style of play, the team fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and pride in their Spanish cultural roots. Beyond their on-court achievements, Los ÑBA established a robust administrative structure, ensuring the club’s sustainability for years to come.  


For the most distinguished women's athletic performance.

Fiona Bunn – Orienteering

Fiona has had an outstanding season, excelling on both domestic and international stages. At the BUCS Championships, she claimed individual and team victories, followed by a silver medal in the JK Sprint. She capped off her domestic season by becoming the British Orienteering Champion. Internationally, her early-season performances earned her a place on the GB team for World Cup events in Switzerland and Italy. Competing in the World Orienteering Championships in Edinburgh, she reached the individual sprint final, finishing 31st. Beyond her achievements, Fiona mentors younger athletes, embodying the spirit of the sport.

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 clocked 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 also a dedicated member of the Hare and Hounds, leading the women’s team to victory at the National Cross Country Relay Championships.

Phoebe Thornett - Lacrosse

Phoebe has showcased remarkable skill and leadership throughout the 2023/24 season. Internationally, she earned her first senior cap against the Czech Republic and helped her team secure 3rd place at the Senior European Championships. She also represented her country at the Home Internationals, earning three caps. Phoebe shone in the British Lacrosse Pro League, scoring the winning goal in the final and was named MVP. As 1st team captain and 3rd team coach, Phoebe’s commitment to her university club has been instrumental in its success. 


For the most distinguished men's athletic performance. 

Archie Goodburn - Swimming

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.

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.

Josh Matthews - Rowing

Josh has had an exceptional year, achieving remarkable success in rowing at both national and international levels. Representing Great Britain at the U23 World and European Championships, he secured top-six finishes in A-finals, showcasing his elite talent on the global stage.

Within the UK, Josh became the Scottish Champion in the Men’s Single, earning the title of Scotland's fastest male sculler. At BUCS, he added two gold medals to his achievements, including a standout performance in the championship pair. His astounding 2km time of 5:58.8 at BUCS Indoors made him the fastest university rower on an ergometer nationwide.

Thomas Ralph – Rifle

Thomas has led Edinburgh University’s Rifle Club to an unprecedented year of success while excelling as a competitor in his own right. As club captain, Thomas has created a culture of competition and ambition within the team.

On the range, Thomas has shone as part of the British Shooting Talent Development Programme, earning national titles as well as representing Scotland, claiming victories across multiple events, further solidifying his reputation as a top athlete.

At university level, Thomas was a dominant force at BUCS, winning 1st place in individual, pairs, and team categories at both indoor and outdoor championships. His achievements highlight his skill, leadership, and dedication to his sport. 


For the most outstanding expeditionary achievement

Canoe - Bryony Agar and Alastair Shapland

In Summer 2024, Alastair Shapland and Bryony Agar of the Edinburgh University 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.

Funded by personal contributions, grants, and sponsorships from organisations like the Lord Mayor’s 800th Anniversary Trust and Pyranha Kayaks, the expedition was also supported by creative fundraising, including a ceilidh and raffle.  

This expedition exemplifies the spirit of exploration and community, combining groundbreaking achievements with a commitment to education and cultural exchange.

Hillwalking - Ellie Bestington

Last summer, Ellie Bestington from the Hillwalking Club embarked on a transformative five-week expedition to Kyrgyzstan with the British Exploring Society (BES). Camping above 3000m in the At-Bashi mountains, she tackled high-altitude trekking, engaged with nomadic Kyrgyz herders, and explored the region’s ecology. Living in tents, washing in rivers, and facing harsh conditions, Ellie embraced the challenges of being completely cut off from the outside world.

To fund the adventure, Ellie secured grants from the University of Edinburgh’s Go Abroad fund and the Harrogate Rotary Club, completing the Yorkshire 3 Peaks with her dad to raise the remaining amount. The expedition tested her resilience, leadership, and teamwork, with lessons such as staying positive during adversity and valuing teamwork as the key to overcoming challenges.

Since returning, Ellie has shared her experiences with the club through presentations and practical advice, enriching its culture with her insights. As a trainee Mountain Leader, she incorporates her newfound skills into leading safe and inspiring trips. Her story has motivated other members to take on their own adventures, including signing up for BES expeditions and challenging themselves in Scotland.  


For the most outstanding 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.

Hare and Hounds

This season saw remarkable victories for the Hare and Hounds club. Highlights included gold and silver medals at the East District XC Relay Championships and a dominant showing at the National XC Relay Championships, where the women’s team secured their seventh consecutive win. Star athlete Megan Keith, an Olympic hopeful, represented Great Britain on the international stage, contributing to the club's growing reputation. Initiatives like "Haries Get Hench" gym sessions and "Well-being Wednesdays" fostered inclusivity and mental well-being, while fundraising efforts supported causes like Movember and Right2Run.

Netball

The Edinburgh University Netball Club had a transformative season, achieving unprecedented success. The 1st team earned promotion to Premier North 2 after an unbeaten run, while the 3rd team won the Scottish Conference Cup and advanced to Scottish Tier 1. Seven out of eight BUCS teams finished in the top three of their leagues. The introduction of a recreational development squad created new competitive pathways. Off the court, the club engaged in impactful community initiatives, raising funds for Breast Cancer Awareness and Scottish Mind, and providing netball coaching at Castlebrae High School to promote the sport locally.

Orienteering

The Orienteering Club enjoyed a defining year, dominating domestic competitions by winning both SSS and BUCS titles. On the international stage, 75% of the GB team at the World University Orienteering Championships were club members. The club played a crucial role in hosting the World Orienteering Championships in Edinburgh, contributing as course planners and volunteers. Their inclusive training programs, supported by subsidised event costs, ensured accessibility for all members.

Rifle

The Rifle Club had a record-breaking year, winning both long-range and short-range BUCS championships and securing individual titles across categories. They achieved their highest-ever BUCS points and expanded to 140 members through biweekly training and engaging social events. Their charity initiatives, including raising £1,551 for Movember, demonstrated their commitment to community impact. Collaborations with local schools further highlighted their dedication to outreach and inclusivity. 


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