Wednesday 19th August 2026

Find out who was successful in being elected to our Executive, Competitions and Development Committees, including our latest Honorary Member.

The Scottish Student Sport network came together for our Annual General Meeting, which took place virtually on Wednesday 19th August.

Alongside business and financial updates from the organisation, voting took place for vacant positions on our three committees: Executive, Competitions and Development.

On our Executive Council, Jonny Pearson (Edinburgh College) has been elected for a second term as SSS Chair. Chris Sellar (Heriot-Watt University) and Mark Munro (University of Edinburgh) fill the two contested staff member roles. Taking up the one year student positions are sabbatical officers Tilly Galvin (University of Strathclyde), Eilidh McQuillan (University of Glasgow), and Hamza Siddiqi (Glasgow Caledonian University).

Moving to our Competitions Committee, and Johnathan MacLeod (UWS) was reelected as as a Staff Member. Aonghus Sellar (SS Football) will have a third year as Sports Chair Representative, while Toni Woods (UWS) was named as Student Member.

On our Development Committee currently has an open vacancy at Chair level. Anna Edvaldsson (University of Stirling), Amber Main (University of Edinburgh) and Craig Stephen (Edinburgh Napier University) were elected as Staff Members, with one further vacancy available. Connie Chen (University of Edinburgh) and Aidan Horsburgh (University of St. Andrews), battled through the AGM’s most-contested election to be named Student Members.

Finally, Paul McPate (University of Dundee) was nominated for a SSS Honorary Life Membership following his retirement as Co-Director Sport & Active Health before the summer break. His endorsement was unanimously approved by members, making him the latest individual to receive SSS’s highest honour.

A handful of vacancies do still remain across staff and student positions with those interested asked to contact Julia Stenhouse-Walton to register their interest.

Thank you to all those who attended our AGM and best of luck to our new elected representatives over the coming year!

Committees in Full

Executive Council 2026/27

Chair Jonny Pearson Edinburgh College
Dev Chair Vacant
Comps Chair Ben Graham Heriot-Watt University
Staff Chris Sellar Heriot-Watt University
Staff Mark Munro University of Edinburgh
Staff Ian Lowe Robert Gordon University
Student Hamza Siddiqi Glasgow Caledonian University
Student Tilly Galvin University of Strathclyde
Student Eilidh McQuillan University of Glasgow
Staff – College (Co-opt) Savannah Antoine West College Scotland

Development Committee 2026-27

Chair Vacant
Staff Member (College) Xsara Murray Edinburgh College
Staff Member Vacant
Staff Member Duncan Caithness University of St. Andrews
Staff Member Craig Stephen Edinburgh Napier
Staff Member Amber Main University of Edinburgh
Staff Member Anna Edvaldsson University of Stirling
Staff Member Vacant
Student Member (College) Vacant
Student Member (University) Connie Chen University of Edinburgh
Student Member (University) Aidan Horsburgh University of St Andrews

Competitions Committee 2026-27

Chair Ben Graham Heriot-Watt University
Staff Kelly Moonlight University of Dundee
Staff Johnathan MacLeod University of the West of Scotland
Sports Chair Aonghus Sellar Scottish Student Football
Student Toni Woods University of the West of Scotland
Student Vacant
Fixtures (co-opted) Ann Taylor University of Strathclyde
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Wednesday 19th August 2026

We’re heading to Dundee and Angus College on Thursday 3rd December for our Festive Gathering! Come and join us.

Dundee and Angus College will host the 2026 Scottish Student Sport Festive Gathering on Thursday 3rd December.

While we may have been enjoying a late summer heatwave until recently, our attention is quickly turning to the season ahead with the ever-popular Festive Gathering bringing a close to the first semester.

A condensed single day conference, Festive Gathering brings our members and partners together for some informative sessions, breakout rooms and networking; sprinkled with a touch of festive cheer.

Dundee and Angus return as hosts of Festive Gathering having previously welcomed us on campus in 2018.

Following feedback, we have made the decision to move the annual event to a Thursday to remove any conflicts with Wednesday afternoon student sport. We hope this will free up more staff to attend – and for those in attendance not to feel chained to their phone all day!

Tickets

After the success of our early bird programme for Conference, we’ll be offering an exclusive lower price for our responsive members and partners. Full details on tickets will be released when registration opens in September.

Agenda

How much can you fit into a single day event? Our agenda is taking shape and will provide a healthy mix of member and partner stories, including plenty of opportunity to network ahead of the festive break. More to come soon!

Questions & Queries

Please direct any questions regarding event booking, external attendance or to Julia Stenhouse-Walton. Comments and suggestions related to the day’s content should go to Jordan Dawson.

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Wednesday 5th August 2026

SSS AGM 2026 is confirmed for Wednesday 19th August. Supporting documents and received nominations are now available to access.

Details for the 2026 Scottish Student Sport Annual General Meeting have been confirmed with all members, volunteers and partners invited to attend.

The AGM will take place virtually via Zoom on Wednesday 19th August with an 11:00 kick off.

Nominations have now closed for all positions and Honorary Life Membership.

Supporting papers, including all nominations, can now be accessed at the bottom of this page. Please refer to the folder below for details regarding the AGM, proposed fees and financial documents.

Details of the Zoom call will be circulated to all members via email.

As a member organisation, our AGM is an important event in our annual fixture list. Alongside reporting back on our strategic and financial goals, we have the election of a number of positions and committees who help us operate.

We hope to see a healthy turnout across our members, volunteers and partners as we prepare for the 2025/26 season. In the meantime, any AGM enquiries can be sent to Julia via email.

Received Nominations

Supporting Papers

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Monday 3rd August 2026

As the Commonwealth Games comes to an end, we chatted to our Athletics Chair Emma Gunn who has played a leading role as a volunteer.

It wasn’t just the SSS staff team getting in and amongst the Commonwealth Games action in Glasgow last week. We were delighted to see a number of our volunteers step up to support on the international stage.

One of those volunteers was our Athletics Chair Emma Gunn. We caught up with her at the end of her time as Team Leader – Equipment, operating at Scotstoun Stadium across the event.

Why did you apply for a role at Glasgow 2026?

I applied to make the most of a home Commonwealth Games and gain new skills working at the professional stage. I also considered applying to support as a physiotherapist or official but I am happy with my choice!

How did your role with SSS help with your application?

My roles in Scottish Athletics and Scottish Student Sport definitely helped secure me a place in my preferred sport and discipline. Having developed leadership and event organisation as in my role as Chair, I was put forward for the role of Team Leader which was hugely exciting.

Tell us about your role at Glasgow – what are you doing?

I am working on the equipment alongside technical officials – making the most of being a licensed official to gain unique experiences. You may have spotted me on the field of play transporting equipment but behind the scenes we are registering equipment, safety checking and completing the checks to ensure implements meet strict criteria. For example, I helped measure and transport the Commonwealth record-breaking hammers and completed safety checks on the frames for seated throws.

As the team leader I am also responsible for my volunteers, ensuring they are enjoying the experience, getting their breaks and helping delegate tasks

What’s one thing you hope to learn/experience at the Games?

I am excited to take in the atmosphere of the games and return to Scotstoun to support old friends. I hope to gain experience at higher levels of competition to encourage me to consider more opportunities in future

What do you hope to take back to your role with SSS next season?

Creativity with identifying volunteering roles and making this enjoyable, I am hoping to recruit more volunteers for Scottish Student Athletics next year.

Congratulations Emma on a successful Commonwealth Games! Would you like to start your volunteering journey with SSS? Take a look at our current vacancies.

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Thursday 23rd July 2026

Two of the SSS staff team are supporting Team Scotland as volunteers at this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

As the 2026 Commonwealth Games prepare to kick off in Glasgow this week, two SSS staff members are preparing for a busy couple of weeks.

Head of Competitions Chris Purdie and Business Manager Julia Stenhouse-Walton have both secured key voluntary roles with Team Scotland, meaning they will be at the heart of the action in Glasgow.

As previously announced, Chris will hold the title of Deputy Chef de Mission for the Games, taking responsibility for a lot of the background logistics that will allow the sizable Team Scotland squad to operate smoothly.

Julia, meanwhile, has built on experience from the 2022 Commonwealth Games to work in the Celebrating Success branch of the media team, supporting athletes with their duties post-event.

Ahead of Thursday’s Opening Ceremony, we caught up with Julia to hear about her Team Scotland journey…

Take us back 12 years – where were you for Glasgow 2014 and what are your memories of those Games?

Julia: I was six months shy of my 16th birthday when applications closed to be a volunteer for Glasgow 2014. I was absolutely devastated. I remember emailing the hiring manager to try and persuade them to make an exception! So, in 2014, I attended the games only as a spectator. I was playing as a hockey goalkeeper at school at the time, so we got tickets for what felt like all the hockey matches. What I remember most is the Malaysian women’s goalkeeper. She was utterly incredible!”

How did you first get involved with Team Scotland as a volunteer?

Julia: I had worked a volunteer digital media role at Team GB for the Tokyo Olympics, and found that I really loved sharing the stories of Scottish athletes. When the volunteer media roles for Birmingham 2022 opened shortly after, I jumped at the chance to apply. I was really lucky to be selected as Digital Officer for Team Scotland that year. After my experience at the 2022 Games, I was eager to come back for more!”

What are you most excited about with these Games?

Julia: “It feels pretty special that this time around I get to experience a home Games as part of Team Scotland, just as I dreamed of when I was 16. Birmingham was a fantastic experience, but there’s something extra special about a Games being hosted in Scotland.”

What skill that you’ve developed at SSS will be most beneficial in your role with Team Scotland?

Julia: I think the main skill I’ve further developed, and one that will really benefit me in this Team Scotland role, is clear communication. In my role at SSS, I support the organisation of large-scale member events. These events require consistent, clear communication with partners, members and venues, as well as across our staff team, to make sure everything runs smoothly. It’s a skill I’ll be putting to good use as part of the Celebrating Success team with Team Scotland this summer.”

How does volunteering in a games environment improve or develop you when returning to the day job?

Julia: “A Games environment is what I’d describe as “enjoyable chaos”. It teaches you to make decisions quickly, think on your feet and adapt to whatever comes your way. There’s often no time to overthink, so you have to stay switched on and solve problems creatively. It’s a brilliant lesson in prioritisation, thinking outside the box, and staying calm in an ever-changing environment. All these skills are really useful when returning to the day job!”

Lastly… Prediction time – where will Team Scotland finish on the medal table?

Julia: “#1 Always! LET’S GO SCOTLAND!”

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Monday 20th July 2026

The 2026 Commonwealth Games are here and students, staff and volunteers from across Scottish Student Sport are set to play their part.

Scottish students, staff, and volunteers will be front and centre of the action as the 2026 Commonwealth Games gets underway in Glasgow this week.

3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories arrive in Glasgow to compete across ten sports, with the action kicking off with the Opening Ceremony this Thursday.

The opportunity for a home Commonwealth Games is something most athletes can only dream of. It is especially notable for this generation of athletes as many grew up and were inspired by Glasgow’s last Commonwealth Games in 2014; citing the event as pertinent in them falling in love with their sport.

Who to look out for?

Those in search of medal opportunities for Scottish students should start their search at the pool where students are prominent in the Team Scotland squad.

Leading the charge is our two-time Scottish Student Sport Female Athlete of the Year Angharad Evans (University of Stirling). British record holder in both the 100m and 200m Breaststroke, she will compete across individual and relay events in a bid to boost Team Scotland’s medal haul.

Evans is one of 18 swimmers based at the University of Stirling who will compete, representing Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and Malaysia. of that number, eight are also supported by the Winning Students 100 Scholarship.

A total of 27 students competing in Glasgow were recipients of a Winning Students scholarship in 2025/26, which supports students competing at the highest level of sport alongside their studies.

On the track, Megan Keith (University of Edinburgh) will be helping lead the capital institution’s hopes as she competes over the 5,000m and 10,000m events, while sprinters Alyson Bell (University of Edinburgh) and Lucy Fraser (University of Glasgow) will be part of a women’s 4x100m squad pushing for home success.

Fraser has also been a mainstay of our Scottish Student events this season winning Gold in the 400m at our Indoor Championships (in a Championship Record), and completing the 100m/2oom double at Outdoors in Aberdeen.

Two student gymnasts will take to the floor in Cameron Lynn and Crystelle Lake (both University of Stirling), while the university will also be represented by Shayne Humphries who will play in Scotland’s first Commonwealth Games 3×3 wheelchair basketball team. Joining Humphries will be West Lothian College student Finlay Erskine, one of two Scottish college students competing.

The University of Strathclyde are represented by Mark Stewart in track cycling and Lexy Gillies in netball, who is joined in the squad by Jazmine Moore (University of Glasgow).

Judo sees a number of current students compete, including Sunny Doig (Heriot-Watt University), Eva Ewing (City of Glasgow College), and Sophie Wood (Edinburgh Napier University).

In the SEC, Team Scotland will be hoping that Weightlifter Alex Mackay (University of Dundee) can produce a similar performance to the one that secured them the British Championship last month.

Who else is involved?

Aside from the athletes, staff from across the sector are involved

We’re also delighted that two of our staff team are involved with Team Scotland – Chris Purdie as Deputy Chef de Mission and Julia Stenhouse-Walton who will support the Celebrating Success media team. Hear more from them soon.

Finally, the Games would not be possible without the incredible number of volunteers who have stepped up. Many are current students with a number also current volunteers with SSS. We’ll be chatting to a few of them about their experiences throughout the summer.

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Tuesday 30th June 2026

SSS can reveal the 13 institutions that will benefit from Summer of Sport funding, covering projects across Scotland.

Updated 30/06/26

We can reveal the 13 institutions that have been successful in securing funding as part of the Summer of Sport. 

Last month Scottish Student Sport were awarded a significant financial sum from sportscotland thanks to the Summer of Sport programme, intended for distribution to institution-led projects on an application basis. 

More information about the Summer of Sport can be found at the bottom of this page.

With the funding period running through to March 2027, many of these projects will run once the academic year commences, supporting students arriving or returning to campus. 

Momentum is building with briefing calls taking place to help kick these projects into life. 

The current list of successful institutions are below. Discussions continue with a couple of members and more details will be released soon. 

We are also pleased to note some other local authority partnership projects, including the University of Edinburgh’s Friday afternoon project for communities in South-East Edinburgh. 

As and when each institution announces their respective funded projects, we will make details available on this page. 

  • Borders College – multi-sport camps and a personal wellbeing project in Galashiels 
  • City of Glasgow College – 5-a-side project at Glasgow Green 
  • Glasgow Clyde College – ESOL cricket, football and pickleball in Cardonald 
  • Dundee & Angus College – multi-sport projects in Dundee and Arbroath 
  • Dumfries & Galloway College – roadshow activities across the region 
  • Edinburgh Napier University – workforce training, supporting new students into activity 
  • Fife College – street games festival in Dunfermline 
  • University of Stirling – summer camp delivery and supported transitions 
  • Robert Gordon University – summer camp delivery and supported transitions 
  • UHI Moray – swimming for Skills for Life students, based at Moray Leisure Centre 
  • UHI Perth – mental health-focused programme, including table cricket 
  • West College Scotland – multi-sport camps and transition sessions across Greenock, Clydebank and Paisley 
  • West Lothian College – inclusive summer sport and transitions programme in Livingston 

 


Published 26/05/26

Students across Scotland’s Colleges and Universities will be able to enjoy a Summer of Sport thanks to a significant investment in tertiary education from sportscotland.

SSS have been successful in securing funding on behalf of the tertiary education to support free and low-cost opportunities for young people to get active as part of the national Summer of Sport programme.

The sector-wide bid means we will now distribute funds directly to Scottish institutions to support specific projects with successful bids set to be announced in the coming weeks.

The fund is part of an £18 million cash injection from the Scottish Government designed to help communities celebrate an incredible Summer of Sport, which will include the FIFA World Cup and a home Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. A total of £1.75 million was allocated to National Partners with SSS bidding from this pot.

Helping students celebrate an incredible few months of sporting activity, we will also support projects covering the transitional period of students returning to campus, helping maintain the momentum of this summer.

Commenting, SSS COO Stew Fowlie said:

“The Summer of Sport campaign is a wonderful development and I am delighted that SSS has been recognised as a key national partner in delivering the campaign.

“Significant funding secured by SSS will support a brilliant variety of projects, linking campuses and communities across Scotland. This will help provide opportunities for many many hundreds of folk that otherwise might not have had the chance to get active – with extra effort being taken to keep them going into 2027 and beyond.”

About the 2026 Summer of Sport:

The 2026 Summer of Sport will provide children and young people across Scotland the opportunity to get active in their local communities through events and activities hosted by schools, clubs, sporting bodies and local authorities. Free and low-cost opportunities will be provided with investment from the Scottish Government and delivered by sportscotland, as the excitement of the FIFA World Cup, Commonwealth Games and more inspires a generation to get involved in sport and physical activity.

The Summer of Sport forms part of a wider £20 million Scottish Government investment in sport and physical activity across Scotland, including:

  • £15 million for the Summer of Sport, providing free and low-cost sport and activities for children and young people.
  • A universal learn-to-swim offer for every primary school child in Scotland, that will continue beyond 2026, backed by initial year-one investment of £2 million.
  • A £2 million ‘Celebration of Football’ fund, aligned with the FIFA World Cup, using the power of Scotland’s national game to change lives through football.
  • A £1 million ‘Health in the Community’ campaign targeting areas with low activity levels to become and stay active.
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Thursday 11th June 2026

Find out who the deserving winners were at the 2026 Scottish Student Sport Awards, held in St. Andrews on Wednesday evening.

The 2026 Scottish Student Sport Awards took place on Wednesday evening with staff, students and volunteers from across the sector celebrated.

Held at Hotel du Vin in St. Andrews, the awards presented recognised the standout athletes, coaches clubs and teams from this season, alongside volunteers and staff members who have made a significant contribution to student sport in Scotland.

The first batch of photos for the evening are available here and are free to use for wider publication. Please credit Tymofii Donets/SSS.

And the winners are…

Coach of the Year: Scott MacAulay (University of Stirling, Tennis)

Also shortlisted: Rachel Cremin (University of Strathclyde, Netball), Mat Trodden (University of Edinburgh, Swimming)

It’s been an unprecedented year of success for University of Stirling Tennis under Scott.

This year the Men’s 1’s claimed a historic ‘quadruple crown’, holding all four BUCS 25/26 titles simultaneously – being named Individual, Doubles, League and National Champions.

Across the club, the Women’s 2’s claimed promotion to BUCS Premier North, and sides claimed medals in the Women’s National Championship, Men’s National Vase and Men’s National Trophy. Individually, Scott guided Anna McBride to a double sweep at the Australian Open Intellectual Disability Championships.

Club of the Year: University of Aberdeen Weightlifting Club

Also shortlisted: University of Glasgow Ski & Snowboard Club, University of St. Andrews Tennis Club

AUSA’s 2026 Club of the Year have grown rapidly in recent years, with a 300% increase in female participation and stronger emphasis on retention of beginners into competitive and recreational pathways.

These clear pathways have ensured athletes at every level are supported, with additional opportunities for female-only and beginner sessions while performance athletes have enjoyed plenty of success at Scottish and British student championships.

Aiming to widen participation, the club regularly collaborate with other clubs to support their S&C offering, breaking down barriers between sports. Active community links too are providing opportunities for members with discounts, seminars and mentorship.

Team of the Year: University of Stirling Tennis Men’s 1’s

Also shortlisted: University of Edinburgh Hockey Men’s 1’s, University of Glasgow Lacrosse Men’s 1’s, West College Scotland Football Men’s 1’s

It’s been a historic season for Stirling Men’s Tennis. The squad completed a clean sweep of all four national BUCS titles – Individual Championship, Doubles Championship, National League, and National Championship – finishing their league campaign undefeated as defending champions.

Beyond the team results, individual scholars have been making their mark. Nemanja Malesevic claimed the Scottish Indoor title and ITF M25 Nottingham Doubles. Liam Hignett earned his first ATP singles ranking and reached a career-high ATP doubles ranking of 369. Cameron Fryer, Kyle McKay and Rob Cowley added further titles and enjoyed deep runs across British and international tour events.

Male Athlete of the Year: Neil Simpson (University of Aberdeen, Snowsports)

Also shortlisted: Barney Stewart (Heriot-Watt University, Football), Judd Sundelson (University of St. Andrews, Golf)

Skier Neil, competing alongside guide Rob Poth, made his name by winning Silver in the Alpine Men’s Super-Combined at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics – Team GB’s first medal of the event. The result built on his bronze in the same event at Beijing 2022.

Later in the games, Neil highlighted his world-class credentials, recording fourth place finishes in the Super-G and Downhill events; the latter competing alongside guide and brother Andrew Simpson.

Female Athlete of the Year: Angharad Evans (University of Stirling, Swimming)

Also shortlisted: Megan Keith (University of Edinburgh, Athletics), Toni Shaw (University of Aberdeen, Swimming)

Our 24/25 Female Athlete of the Year, Angharad has enjoyed another exceptional year in the pool.

At the 2026 British Aquatics Championships she broke the British 200m Breaststroke record, becoming the first female British swimmer to break the 2:20 milestone. In University of Stirling colours she won three gold medals at the BUCS Long Course Championships.

At international level she won her first major medal with silver at the European Short Course Championships and has secured selection for Team Scotland at this year’s Commonwealth Games.

Volunteer of the Year: Finlay MacCallum (Robert Gordon University, Climbing)

Also shortlisted: Madeleine Bell (University of Edinburgh, Karate), Sibylle Reboul (University of St. Andrews, Rugby), Ethan Thomson (North East Scotland College)

Balancing his final year of Paramedicine with the RGU Climbing presidency, Finlay helped deliver the club’s most successful year – earning RGU Club of the Year and his own RGU Volunteer of the Year award.

He secured £2,000 in equipment funding, grew membership by 35%, and shifted the club’s identity toward an outdoor-focused programme.

Dr Rob Macpherson Award: Becca Brooks (Scottish Student Trampoline)

Over six years as a volunteer in student sport, Becca has held multiple leadership roles from her trampoline club, through to becoming Scottish Student Trampoline Comms Officer, Treasurer, and for the last two years, Chair.

They have played a key role in driving inclusivity and participation, creating an environment that supports competitive opportunities for students of all abilities.

Becca has massively contributed to running some of our biggest events, including the Scottish Student Trampoline Open, engaging over 2,700 students during their tenure.

SSS Special Recognition Award: Katherine Duncan (University of Edinburgh)

Katherine originally took on the role of SSS Grampian Chair way back in 2018 before stepping up to the Development Committee Chair role in 2021/2022. Her contribution since has been nothing short of extraordinary – Katherine has been in role for long enough that she’s on her fourth Head of Development!

The past 12 months have been challenging in a variety of ways in the Development space and Katherine has been a rock throughout. Not only has she ensured the work of SSS Development continues to represent its members and their ongoing needs but also brings to the forefront a care for SSS staff. Always prepared, always thoughtful and always keen to bring things forward, KC has been an ever present in all areas that being Development Committee Chair brings whether it be Exec, Management Group and particularly with her passion and focus for all things Development.

Honorary President’s Medal: Cameron Ritchie (University of Edinburgh)

2026 marks 25 years of exceptional service to Sport and Active Health at the University of Edinburgh for Cameron. Often working behind the scenes, in his last decade as Head of Operation he oversaw a raft of major facility upgrades, making Edinburgh one of the UK’s top Scottish sports institutions.

In particular, his leadership during Covid stands out in what was a challenging time for the team and the sector due to the demands on operational safety. Cameron provided calm, structured, and forward-thinking guidance during this time.

Cameron has always embodied the values of dedication, innovation and integrity that make him truly deserving of the Honorary President’s Medal.

Honorary President’s Medal: Paul McPate (University of Dundee)

For over four decades, Paul has played a defining role shaping opportunities for sports participation and development at the University of Dundee, and across the SSS Network, demonstrating commitment extending beyond his professional role.

As Co-Director, Sport and Active Health at the University of Dundee, Paul has been pivotal at shaping an inclusive, student-centred sporting environment that has allowed tens of thousands of students to engage and flourish in sport.

At national level he has made numerous contributions across roles with BUCS Scottish Volleyball and SSS – including holding the role of Women’s Volleyball Chair since 1991.

Paul retired last month, leaving a legacy of impact for generations of students and colleagues, and the wider sporting landscape, that will be carried on long into the future.

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Thursday 21st May 2026

Check out the 20 individuals, clubs and teams who have been nominated for the 2026 Scottish Student Sport Awards in June.

Scottish Student Sport are delighted to reveal the clubs, athletes, coaches and volunteers shortlisted for the 2025/26 SSS Awards.

A total of 20 athletes, coaches, volunteers, clubs and teams are nominated across six awards with the event taking place on Wednesday 11th June at Hotel du Vin, St. Andrews.

From Olympians to BUCS-dominating teams to committed volunteers, the shortlist represents the true scale and impact that student sport has in Scotland.

Our membership is well represented with a total of ten institutions fielding successful nominations; the University of Edinburgh leading the way with four. The College sector is represented by a nomination apiece for West College Scotland and North East Scotland College.

Two additional awards will be presented on the evening: the Honorary President’s Medal for outstanding commitment to student sport in Scotland, and the Dr. Rob Macpherson Award which will be presented to our SSS volunteer of the year.

Over the next two weeks we’ll be talking more about each of our shortlisted nominees on our social media so be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to hear about everything they’ve achieved this year.

Coach of the Year

  • Rachel Cremin (University of Strathclyde) – Netball
  • Scott MacAulay (University of Stirling) – Tennis
  • Mat Trodden (University of Edinburgh) – Swimming

Female Athlete of the Year

  • Angharad Evans (University of Stirling) – Swimming
  • Megan Keith (University of Edinburgh) – Athletics
  • Toni Shaw (University of Aberdeen) – Swimming

Male Athlete of the Year

  • Neil Simpson (University of Aberdeen) – Snowsports
  • Barney Stewart (Heriot-Watt University) – Football
  • Judd Sundelson (University of St. Andrews) – Golf

Volunteer of the Year

  • Madeleine Bell (University of Edinburgh) – Karate
  • Finlay MacCallum (Robert Gordon University) – Climbing
  • Sibylle Reboul (University of St. Andrews) – Rugby
  • Ethan Thomson (North East Scotland College) – Basketball

Club of the Year

  • University of Aberdeen Weightlifting Club
  • University of Glasgow Ski & Snowboard Club
  • University of St. Andrews Tennis Club

Team of the Year

  • University of Edinburgh Hockey Men’s 1’s
  • University of Glasgow Lacrosse Men’s 1’s
  • University of Stirling Tennis Men’s 1’s
  • West College Scotland Football Men’s 1’s

Dr. Rob Macpherson Award (SSS Volunteer of the Year)

  • To be revealed on the night

SSS Honorary President’s Medal

  • To be revealed on the night
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Sunday 17th May 2026

Check out the final agenda ahead of Conference 2026 in St. Andrews this June!

The 2026 Scottish Student Sport Conference, powered by Technogym, will take place on 10th – 11th June at the University of St. Andrews.

Always a highlight of the SSS calendar, the conference brings together our community to network, share best practice, and celebrate the success of student sport.

On the Wednesday evening we’ll all come together for the ever-popular SSS Awards Night. More information about categories and nominations will be released to institutions in due course.

Online ticket sales are now closed but anyone still interested in attending should contact SSS Business Manager Julia Stenhouse-Walton.

Accommodation

This year, accommodation will be available through our hosts the University of St. Andrews for a reduced event rate of £90 per person. You can book any rooms through the Conference sign-up form or by contacting Julia Stenhouse-Walton.

Rooms will be double beds with en-suite and includes a buffet breakfast.

Please note that we’re running low on availability for accommodation so book ASAP to avoid disappointment!

Agenda

June 10th – Connecting the Wider Scottish Sport Sector

Information regarding the venue and parking will be circulated to all attendees prior to the event.

Stew Fowlie, COO, SSS and Clare Peddie, Vice-Principal (Education) at the University of St. Andrews

Paul McPate, Co-Director, Sport and Active Health, University of Dundee

Drawing on more than 40 years in student sport Paul will share the lessons, relationships and defining moments that have shaped both his career and the wider sector. Having witnessed significant change across university sport since beginning his career in 1985, Paul will reflect on how student sport has evolved through the lessons he has learnt along the way.

From adapting to an evolving sector to recognising the lasting impact of creating opportunities for others, the session will encourage attendees to reflect on what truly matters in sport and leadership, and what experiences from the past can teach us about shaping the future.

Choose one of the following breakouts to join:

Burnout: Being Fit for Purpose

David Howatson, Educator, Technogym

Based on the latest research into the syndrome of burnout, David from Conference Headline Partners Technogym will be discussing the impact in the context of fitness professionals and sports coaches.

What Good Looks Like Managing Operations

Craig Campbell, Chief Explanation Officer, Ops Pal

Running a leisure site safely involves a staggering volume of tasks, risk assessments, and procedures. You already know the sheer effort it takes. The challenge isn't doing the work—it is proving the work is consistently getting done.

In "What Good Looks Like", Ops Pal explore how to make your operations visible without adding to your team's workload.

You will discover how to:

  • Transition from being exposed to genuinely audit-ready.
  • Stop vague task allocation and ensure explicit ownership.
  • Use intelligent reporting to fix operational gaps before they escalate to senior management.

Join Ops Pal to learn how to know things are okay, rather than just thinking they are.

Participation in Focus: National Trends and Parasport Perspectives

Molly Byrne, Head of Belonging, BUCS

This interactive session will explore emerging insights and trends from UK-wide participation data gathered through BUCS Play, alongside a focused deep dive into findings from the recent Para & Disability Sport Survey. Bringing together national perspectives, lived experiences and sector-wide challenges, the session will examine what the data tells us about engagement, inclusion and the future of student sport participation.

Designed to encourage active audience involvement throughout, delegates will have opportunities to reflect, discuss and contribute their own experiences and perspectives, helping to shape a shared understanding of the opportunities and barriers facing the sector.

A chance to meet our partners including Technogym, Canterbury, BE Uniforms and Ops Pal.

Danielle Grieve, Activities Development Manager, Aberdeen University Student Association

This interactive networking session will provide delegates with the opportunity to build new connections and strengthen relationships with colleagues from across the student sport sector. Designed as a fun and informal social activity, the session will encourage attendees to meet new people, share experiences and connect beyond their own institutions and roles.

Alongside creating space for conversation and community-building, the session will also encourage the development of mentoring and peer-support relationships across the sector. Whether delegates are looking to share experience, seek guidance, support emerging professionals or build longer-term connections, the session aims to foster meaningful relationships that continue beyond the conference itself.

Choose two of the following breakouts to join:

The Role of Sport in Transitions
Kaden Houghton, Robert Gordon University, Current MRes Student

This session draws on Kaden’s MRes programme, exploring the transition to university and the role of physical activity in supporting psychological wellbeing. It will consider the challenges students face when entering higher education, including social adjustment, identity, and connection, and position sport and physical activity as key enablers within this transition improving overall student experience.

Building Belonging in Competitive Teams
Josh Darley, Liverpool John Moores University

This session draws on student-led research on the role of student sports team in creating a sense of belonging. Combined with research into practice from a year as VP Activities at Liverpool John Moore University Student Union, Josh will explore how sports teams can enhance but also negate a sense of belonging within their internal structures. In providing real life examples from their year in role, Josh outlines the tangible changes that have been made to create positive club cultures through the enhanced role of student leaders.

Using Sport for Social Change: The Positive Masculinity Project
Lauren Simpson, Active Campus Coordinator, Dundee and Angus College

This session explores how sport can be used as a powerful platform to engage young men in meaningful conversations around critical social issues. Lauren’s sessions throughout a dedicated programme explored how sport could be an entry point for dialogue that challenges attitudes, builds awareness and encourages positive behaviour change. Through delivering sessions over an academic term, the session will highlight how sport can be used to open up difficult conversations, foster reflection and support the development of more inclusive mindsets. Attendees will gain insight into approaches such as these and consider how they can equally be applied within their own programmes and communities.

Turning Ambition into Action: Co-Creating the SSS Equality Strategy
Waiyin Hatton, Chair of SSS Equality Action Group & Jordan Dawson, SSS Head of Development

This interactive session will bring members together to help shape the future direction and delivery of SSS’ Equality Strategy. Building on existing progress and recognising the challenges still ahead, the session will focus on how collective action, shared responsibility and meaningful engagement can drive long-term change. Designed as an active and participatory session, this workshop will provide members with the opportunity to contribute directly to the development of future strategy and help shape a shared vision for equality, inclusion and belonging.

This fireside-style panel session will bring together senior leaders from across SGBs for an open and reflective conversation on the role of student sport. Hosted by our very own Chris Purdie, the discussion will explore the opportunities, challenges and priorities shaping the sector, alongside the role student sport plays within Scotland’s wider sporting landscape.

June 11th – Member Collaboration In Action

Information regarding the venue and parking will be circulated to all attendees prior to the event.

Professor Susan Brown, Head of Sport Engagement, Edinburgh Napier University

In our opening to Day 2, Professor Susan Brown will explore her role as University Head of Sport Engagement and what this means for Edinburgh Napier University. As the University’s first post-holder in this area, her role brings together sport, research and student experience into a single, strategic vision—positioning sport as a key driver of innovation, inclusion and external impact internally, locally and nationally.

Bringing together student experience, research, partnerships and civic engagement, this role represents a step-change in how sport can contribute to institutional priorities. Susan will reflect on what it means to position sport as a driver of innovation, inclusion and impact—sharing insights into how this approach is shaping culture, strengthening connections, and opening up new opportunities across the university and beyond.

Choose two of the following breakouts to join:

Stay Well and Thrive: Using Insight and Evidence to Drive Change
Alison Cox MBE, Mental Health Lead, Glasgow Clyde College

This session, will share how Glasgow Clyde College has developed a whole-college approach to student wellbeing, using induction, digital engagement and data-informed practice to create a more supportive and connected student experience. Drawing on the College’s “Stay Well and Thrive” initiative, the session will explore how wellbeing has been embedded from enrolment onwards through accessible digital resources, proactive support and institution-wide collaboration. Alison will explore the role that data, insight and evidence can play in demonstrating the value and impact of wellbeing-focused work to senior leaders and decision makers.

 

Putting Funding in Students’ Hands: What Works?
Phoebe Moncur, Club Development Officer, Robert Gordon University & Stew Fowlie, COO, Scottish Student Sport

This session will examine how different approaches to funding student sport can be developed and delivered within institutions. The session will showcase RGU Sport Training and Education Programme (STEP) as a practical example of how targeted investment can support participation, development and wider student outcomes. This will be followed by an overview of the Summer of Sport funding initiative and the journey to delivery, offering a broader sector perspective on how funding can be used to enhance opportunities and drive impact.

 

Student Voice to System Change: Shaping Wednesday Afternoons
Eilidh Stuart, VP GSBS, GCUSA & Anna Bole, Student Intern, SSS

This session will explore how student insight and institutional policy can work together to shape the future of Wednesday afternoons across tertiary education. The first part of the session will showcase a SSS student internship project examining student perceptions, experiences and expectations of Wednesday afternoons, providing valuable insight into students experiences. Building on this, the session will then explore a policy-focused approach to creating change in this space from GCU, considering how institutions can respond to evolving student needs while balancing sport, wellbeing, academic commitments and wider engagement opportunities. Together, the session will offer both an evidence-informed student perspective and a strategic discussion on how Wednesday afternoons can be reimagined to better support participation, belonging and student life

A chance to meet our partners including Technogym, Canterbury, BE Uniforms and Ops Pal.

Our 'unconference' format puts you in the driving seat. Just like in sport, this is where tactics are tested, challenges are faced head-on, and team-mates come together to find solutions in real time.

Rather than a fixed agenda, this session is shaped by you — our members. You’ll bring the topics, set the priorities, and lead the conversations that matter most across the student sport landscape. Come ready to play your part — bring a challenge, an idea, or simply your experience. The strength of this session comes from the collective knowledge in the room. The more you put in, the more you, and the sector, will get out.

A final chance to network!

Sam Gough, England Captain

In this closing keynote, Sam Gough will share her journey through sport, education and leadership as captain of England’s first ever blind women’s football squad. Drawing on her lived experience as a visually impaired athlete, Sam will reflect on the barriers she encountered in accessing sport, the transformative impact of inclusive opportunities, and the growing visibility of blind women’s football on the international stage.

From navigating exclusion within school sport to representing England and advocating for the future of the women’s game, Sam’s story highlights the power of sport to build confidence, identity and belonging. Her keynote will explore themes of resilience, representation and systemic change, challenging institutions and organisations to think differently about inclusion and access in sport.

Awards

The prestigious Scottish Student Sport Awards Dinner will take place on the evening of Wednesday 10th June where we’ll celebrate the students, staff, and volunteers that have made the season so successful.

This year we’re delighted to be hosting our Awards at the iconic Hotel du Vin in St. Andrews and we hope you will join us.

Tickets include a welcome drink, wine, and a three course dinner and can be purchased either separately, or in our discounted Conference package.

View this year’s shortlists here!

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