Team UOP Celebrate at Sports Awards 2024

As we bid farewell to another academic year and the curtains draw on our university sports season, there's a heartwarming sense of pride as we gather to celebrate the achievements of our sports clubs at the 2024 Sports Awards. Throughout these past months, our students have once again showcased remarkable dedication, passion, and resilience, demonstrating levels of commitment that truly inspire.

Reflecting on the journey of Team UoP over the past year fills us with immense joy and anticipation for the future. The milestones we've reached, the victories we've celebrated, and the challenges we've overcome have woven a tapestry of memories that we'll cherish for years to come. And as we look ahead, we're eager to stand behind all our clubs, cheering them on as they embark on new adventures and write new chapters of success.

Sport holds a special place in the hearts of many of our students, offering more than just physical activity—it's a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and personal growth. Through the highs and lows of competition, our students have forged bonds that will last a lifetime, discovered inner strengths they never knew they had, and honed skills that will serve them well beyond the playing field.

We're deeply grateful for the role sport plays in enriching the lives of our students, not only by fostering a sense of belonging and well-being but also by equipping them with valuable life skills that will serve them in their future endeavours. From teamwork and resilience to leadership and communication, the lessons learned on the field will resonate far beyond graduation day.

At the heart of our sports department's mission lies a commitment to creating life-changing experiences through sport and physical activity. Whether it's through internships, committee roles, or employment opportunities, we strive to provide a nurturing environment where our students can thrive and reach their full potential.

This year has been nothing short of extraordinary for us in BUCS, with our university achieving its highest ranking in over a decade. The victories, promotions, and cup finals have been moments of triumph that we've celebrated together, united by the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie that defines us as a community.

But beyond the accolades and trophies, it's the spirit of our students—their passion, dedication, and unwavering determination—that truly sets us apart. To all our student athletes, leaders, volunteers, and coaches, we extend our deepest gratitude for your contributions. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and your impact on our university community is immeasurable.

As we come together to honour the achievements of our students at the Sports Awards, let us take a moment to celebrate the journey we've embarked on together, the memories we've created, and the bonds we've forged. Congratulations to all the nominees, shortlisted candidates, and award winners—we couldn't be prouder of you. Here's to another year of success, growth, and unforgettable moments on and off the field.

Individual Awards

Contribution to the Community

Shortlisted:

Emilié Lewis - Women's Rugby President, Team UoP Exec Committee Events Officer

Melissa Butler - Swimming and Water Polo RAG/Events Sec

Winner: Robert Guest - Athletics RAG/Events Sec

Robert, as the RAG Secretary for Athletics, is dedicated to promoting a diverse array of opportunities for the club and the broader student body to support the local community. He has organized groups to volunteer at the food bank, participated in beach clean-ups, and supported fundraising events for St. John’s Ambulance and guide dogs. His enthusiasm has been infectious, inspiring other students to get involved. In addition to his community volunteering efforts, Robert has organized well-being walks for club members, delivered strength and conditioning sessions in preparation for competitions, and collaborated with other Team UoP clubs to host charity events.

Student Official of the Year

Shortlisted:

Amy Obiamago (Basketball)

Dyfrig Dellar (Men's Rugby)

Winner: Abbie Newton - Gymnastics and Trampolining

Abbie has acted as a judge for every single Gymnastics and Trampolining competition throughout this year, at times selflessly sacrificing her own participation in competitions to ensure that the club provides a suitable official. She has mentored novice judges, gained a higher judging qualification, and advised athletes on what judges will be looking for in their performances, enabling them to put together high-quality routines.

Executive Committee Member of the Year

Shortlisted:

Ayub Yusuf - American Football
George Chilian - Boxing
Jessica Howe - Tennis
Lara Campbell - Dance

Winners:

Jordan Khanu - Basketball

Club members state that Jordan epitomizes commitment, leadership, and service to the Basketball club. He has consistently exceeded expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the club. One of Jordan's most remarkable qualities is his unwavering dedication to the club's success. His inclusive approach has broadened engagement, especially among demographics traditionally underrepresented in sports, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the club.

Nadine Smith - Rowing

Club members state Nadine has been monumental for the rowing club, from aiding in the organisation of capsize testing to get freshers on the water as early as possible, to being present week in and week out at water sessions to coach experienced and novice crews with an infectious smile. Nadine has gone above and beyond to ensure the club runs seamlessly, growing the club's ability to train and compete, whilst maintaining the aspect of fun within the sport which is so important. Nadine has also won the Rising Star Volunteer of the Year at the British Rowing Annual Awards, a prize she was more than deserving of.

Scholar of the Year (Special Recognition)

Shortlisted:

Alfie Dixon - Boxing
Darren Chee Hou Chai - Badminton
Lucy Odell - Javelin

Winner: Kate Robertson - Sailing

In her second year on the programme, Kate has demonstrated commendable dedication to personal and athletic growth, surmounting adversity, bolstering her confidence, and actively seeking support and guidance when necessary. She exhibits a proactive stance toward self-improvement and development, attentively considering advice from various experts. Kate's unwavering determination is evident in her exceptional attendance record for strength and conditioning sessions, which has not only resulted in improvements in her strength and fitness but has also expanded her access to prestigious Sailing competitions and coaching opportunities both within the UK and overseas.

Most Supportive Committee Member

Shortlisted:

Charday Stone - Taekwondo and Karate
Dionne Moore - Snow Sports
Lawrence Doe - Tennis
Shana Kelly - Women's Football

Winners: Natasha Layley - Women's Rugby

Club Awards

Media Club of the Year

Shortlisted:

Dance

Netball

Taekwondo and Karate

Women's Rugby

Winners: Gymnastics and Trampolining

A club who have consistently published high quality content across all aspects of social media, particularly impressing with highly engaging Reels and more than doubling their social media audience across the year.

Varsity Team of the Year

Shortlisted:

Athletics - Men's Team

Equestrian - 1st Team

Lacrosse - 1st Team (mixed)

Trampolining

Winners: Basketball - Women's 1st Team

Women's Basketball are currently in Tier 2 of the BUCS leagues, and took on a strong Premier Tier ranked Southampton team. Stakes were high after all three Men's teams had won their Varsity fixture, and the Women's team excelled through a close contest, winning 93 - 86 in front of a packed out Ravelin Sports Centre crowd.

Team of the Year

Shortlisted:

Badminton - Women's 1st Team

Golf - 1st Team (mixed)

Tennis - Women's 2nd Team

Volleyball - Men's 1st Team

Winners: Gymnastics and Trampolining - Men's Gymnastics Elite Team

Our Elite team won the BUCS national Gymnastics team title, and consistently medalled across all apparatus in University Gymnastics Cup, contributing to UOP Gymnastics and Trampolining winning UGC South and finishing 2nd nationally.

Most Improved Club of the Year

Shortlisted:

Basketball

Climbing

Rowing

Winners: Boxing

The club has increased its membership to over a 100 club members this year. Club members state that the committee have gone out of their way to make sure that every training session runs smoothly and they’ve dedicated their time to improve member’s skills and ensuring the club is an inclusive and safe environment.