Blues and Colours Awards Ceremony 2026

Blues and Colours are prestigious awards given to athletes who demonstrate outstanding performance in their sport. Each club sets its own criteria for achieving a Full Blue, Half Blue, or Colour, ensuring that recipients meet a high standard of excellence.

From athletes representing Scotland on the world stage to those competing regionally for the university, as well as individuals who dedicate their time to advancing their club’s development, it is essential to celebrate achievement, camaraderie, and positivity in student sport at the University of Dundee.

This year, the Blues and Colours Awards Ceremony was held on Thursday, 02 April at Bonar Hall.

With over 90 awards presented, the evening honoured everyone from top-performing athletes to dedicated volunteers - whose contributions are vital to the success and enjoyment of sports clubs - showcasing the vibrant sporting community at the University of Dundee.

Volunteering Awards

Merits

A Merit is awarded to athletes, club committee members or officials who have acted above and beyond what is required of them in their club position and who have shown outstanding dedication to their club.

Archery

• Kieran Morgan

Athletics

• Hayley Gilfillan
• Murray Bertram
• Rose Eckersley 

Basketball Women’s

• Hannah Hilal
• Mimi King 

Boat

• Emma Murray 
• Miriam Bray 

Boxing

• Cian Gilmour 

Canoe

• William Sykes

Dance

• Eva McKie

Equestrian

• Emily Gourlay

Fencing

• James Ferguson

Gaelic Football Women’s

• Grace Murphy 

Golf

• Lucy Hall

Gymnastics

• Criostai Pringle 

Handball

• Magnus Alasdair Gray

Hockey Women’s

• Maisie Nowicki 

Ice Sports

• Sarah-Louise Brogan
• Nicoletta Proto

Lacrosse

• Isla Overton

Netball

• Katie MacIver
• Olivia Overend

Rugby Women’s

• Iseabail McMullan-Gabbott 

Sailing

• Callum Smith
• Shona Coull

Ski and Snowboard

• Harris Imlach
• Neil Barthel 
• Sandie Rennison

Tennis

• Sarah Mitchell

Trampoline

• Anna Johnstone

Triathlon

• Max O’Connor

Ultimate Frisbee

• Jennifer Evans 

Volunteering and Coaching Awards

Graham Healy Student Coach of the Year Award

The Graham Healy Student Coach of the Year award honours the legacy of Graham Healy, a dedicated coach of our Boxing Club for over a decade and a passionate advocate for student sport. This award recognises the dedication, commitment, and impact of students who contribute to coaching within university sports clubs.

This year’s recipient served their club in an official capacity for 4 years, previously as Coaching and Wellbeing Officer, then as Captain and now as Head Coach.

Having successfully completed a Level 2 coaching award, this individual has created an annual coaching plan; written session plans catering for a wide range of technical and physical abilities and created a welcoming environment at club sessions.

Their positivity and enthusiasm have helped create a safe and inclusive space where members can thrive and enjoy their sport.

Their commitment to their club saw them continue to write session plans even when on medical elective in Nepal and their support for their fellow club members extends to mentoring foundation-level coaches, ensuring that they gain the knowledge, experience and confidence they need in their own coaching journey.

This year’s Graham Healy Student Coach of the Year award goes to Gregor Angus from the University Triathlon Club. 

James Boyle Shield

The James Boyle Shield is named in honour of the 1991 Sports Union President whose loss of a leg did not prevent him from committing himself to developing his club and the Sports Union.  This award celebrates outstanding volunteer service by a university sports club member.

The nominations for this year’s award were of an impressive calibre, highlighting students who have invested their time and energy into improving their fellow students’ experience within their sports clubs - whether by launching new initiatives, dedicating countless volunteer hours, or excelling in their committee roles. 

In addition to competing at an elite level in their sport of Trampolining, this year’s award recipient is also Trampoline Club Head Coach, as well as being a qualified judge, representing the club at regional and national competitions. 

However, not content to make a significant difference to one club, they are also club President and Level 2 coach at a second club – Gymnastics.

They have spent countless hours coaching, organising, and encouraging their fellow student athletes across both clubs, ensuring that every member - regardless of experience - feels valued and empowered to achieve their best. This commitment, which regularly involves up to 6 club sessions week, is managed alongside a medical degree, which requires balancing study and travel commitments between Ninewells and the City Centre campus.

This year’s James Boyle Shield is awarded to Jonny Henderson from the University Trampoline and Gymnastics clubs.

Alasdair Lonie Trophy

The Alasdair Lonie Trophy was established through a generous bequest from Alasdair Lonie, a passionate supporter of the Sports Union, with strong ties to the Table Tennis, Judo, and Rugby clubs. This award recognises a student who has made a significant impact through volunteering activity across multiple sports and clubs.

This year’s recipient has been an integral part of the University of Dundee Sports Union, volunteering on three different committees whilst also competing and volunteering for two university sports clubs.

They currently serve as:

• President of the University Boat Club
• Treasurer of the University Golf Club
• Finance Officer of the University Sports Union (for the 3^rd consecutive year)

Their volunteering commitment is evident in their willingness to step up whenever needed, ensuring the smooth running of their clubs and the University Sports Union. 

Following previous roles as Equipment Manager and Treasurer for the Boat Club, their impact this year as Club President, has seen them build links with club alumni, secure funding from Scottish Rowing and acquire new club equipment, as well as committing themselves to support boat maintenance and transport. Their personal dedication to club training has set an example to fellow members and has also resulted in them enjoying their own personal competitive successes.

In three years serving as Finance Officer on the Sports Union Executive, they have had a positive impact on countless clubs through their implementation of “good practice” meetings and their guidance and advice offered to clubs to ensure prudent management of club funds.

Their reliability, commitment and selflessness have made them a trusted and welcoming presence within their clubs and the wider student sporting community.

This year’s Alasdair Lonie Trophy is awarded to Ewan Cattermole from the University Boat and Golf Clubs, and the Sports Union Executive. 

Coach of the Year

The Coach of the Year award is presented to the coach who has made the most significant impact within their club, whether through on-field achievements or off-field contributions to team spirit and development.

This year’s recipient has been an integral part of their club since its inception. Their commitment spans across decades and they represent a key ingredient in the club’s foundation and development. 

Their impact extends beyond delivering coaching sessions – they are the backbone of the club’s continuity and an integral part of the club’s history. In a sport where competitive opportunities for students can be limited, they have worked hard to create and seek pathways for athlete development. 

Their leadership, networking and lifelong commitment to their sport ensures that the club continues to thrive, whilst their own personal investment in the sport and in delivering a positive experience to their clubs’ members is a trademark of their coaching style and impact.

This year’s Coach of the Year award is awarded to Brian Healy from the University Boxing Club.

Allan Findlay Trophy

The Allan Findlay Trophy commemorates Allan Findlay, who, as President of the Cycling Club, 

inspired and motivated his team to secure a British Universities team bronze, whilst becoming British Universities Champion himself.  Allan’s qualities of perseverance against adversity and exceptional dedication to his sport and his club mates, is celebrated through this award.   

This year’s recipient has immersed themselves in their club activity since arriving at the University. Having made an impact as Training Captain in their 2^nd year, their vision as Club President – to grow the club competitively and structurally and empower members to step onto the start line – has had a profoundly positive impact on the club throughout 2025/26. 

Their impressive contribution has included:

• a significant growth in competitive engagement of members
• prioritising fundraising to support wider member opportunities
• strengthening community ties
• removing barriers to participation
• strengthening the club structure and expanding wellbeing-focused club social events

In keeping with the memory of Allan Findlay, this extraordinary individual has demonstrated great resilience in the face of a number of challenges this year, which makes their achievement in transforming their club, all the more impressive. 

This year’s Allan Findlay Trophy is awarded to Hayley Gilfillan from the University Athletics Club.

Jamie Shannon Quaich

This trophy honours Jamie Shannon, who served as President of the Volleyball Club during the 2014/15 academic year. Throughout his four-year tenure with the club, Jamie’s open, welcoming personality and unmatched enthusiasm enhanced the experience of club members, making it extra special for everyone involved.

Jamie's exceptional rapport with and support for his fellow members were evident from his first year and this award recognises a first-year student who, like Jamie, makes a significant impact on their club through their vibrant personality and dedicated volunteering efforts.

This year’s recipient fully embraced the opportunities provided by their club. Within two months of joining their club in September, they successfully passed a judging course and have since judged at both league and tournament competitions. 

They have also embarked on their own coaching journey, starting their Level 1 coaching award and supporting fellow members at club training sessions. With almost a 100% attendance at club training and a huge energy and enthusiasm for their new-found sport, this individual embodies the qualities that are associated with this award. 

This year’s Jamie Shannon Quaich is awarded to Anna Johnstone from the University Trampoline Club.

Aaron McEwen Sakura Quaich

This Quaich commemorates Aaron McEwen, a pivotal member of the Judo Club during his university years. Aaron inspired club members in various ways, from skill improvement and personal development to encouraging confidence in tackling new challenges. Respected for his modesty, courage, and sincerity, Aaron left a lasting impact within his club and the broader sporting community.

This award recognises the efforts of a club or individual who has championed, enriched, or fostered positive mental health and wellbeing.

This year’s recipient has made a lasting difference by prioritising mental health and wellbeing initiatives for their club members. Their efforts have included:

• Introduction of a Wellbeing Committee comprising 7 members, spanning all year groups, delivering engagement events and acting as a focal point for member support. 
• Hosting a Wellbeing Week, offering a range of activities such as yoga; a movie night and a study session, providing healthy and inclusive opportunities for members to socialise.
• Dress Drive – a dress sharing initiative to reduce the financial stress on members, who require clothes for each competition event, whilst improving overall sustainability.

This club has demonstrated a proactive and invested approach to supporting positive health and mental wellbeing amongst its members.

This year’s Aaron McEwen Sakura Quaich is awarded to the University Dance Club.

Graduates Association Award for Promotion

The Graduates Association Award for Promotion recognises a club or individual that has demonstrated initiative and proactive commitment to showcase their activities through promotion, social media engagement, and the publicity of their club activities.

This year’s award recipient has brought a fresh and innovative approach to their club promotion, embracing change and reinvigorating their club’s profile and engagement with both club members and followers.

Key impacts include:

• a three-fold increase in Instagram connection, with some posts receiving over 15k views
• organisation of a club media day in the DJCAD photography studio, producing an extensive portfolio of professional images to profile the club
• ensuring that the club branding is professional, cohesive and instantly recognisable

The recipient’s attention to detail, consistency in visual identity and ability to create significant, high-quality content, has engaged the wider club community, bringing everyone together to proudly support the club. 

 For their exceptional commitment to promotion and engagement, the winner of the Graduates Association Award for Promotion is Eva Bell from the University Swimming and Water Polo Club.

Performance Awards

Colours

To be awarded a Colour, athletes need to serve and play for their club for at least two years and to be regular 1st team members where appropriate. They should also have played 85% of university matches and their ability should be such as to ensure their place in the team in the face of competition.

Athletics

• Amy Gough
• Lauren Doney

Basketball Women's

• Freya Sneddon

Boat

• Alexander Walker
• James Morrison
• Megan Dunlop

Dance

• Alix Anderson
• Anna Henriksen
• Emily Forrest

Football Women's

• Zoe Bruce

Gymnastics

• Criostai Pringle
• Jonny Henderson

Hockey Women's

• Amy Urmson
• Kate Wellington
• Phoebe Haldane
• Rachel Hill

Lacrosse

• Bridget Schneider
• Hazel Cox 
• Izzabelle Burton

Netball

• Lois Phillips
• Olivia Overend

Rucksack

• Anwen Hockley

Rugby Men's

• Alistair Holmes
• Rory Cockburn
• Tom Kelly 

Rugby Women's

• Ellie Lochrie
• Hannah Colledge
• Lily Williamson-Frame

Sailing

• Megan Fant

Swimming and Waterpolo

• Elise Cosens
• Alex Coy
• Amy Ash
• Harris Taylor

Trampoline

• Eliza Costley 

Volleyball

• Ayaan Shaikh
• Heather Mitchell 
• Joel Naterwalla 

Half Blues

Half Blues are awarded to athletes for playing well above the average standard for a University of Dundee 1st team. A Half Blue should be a squad member for a Scottish Universities representative team. A Half Blue winner should also have played in at least 75% of the fixtures for the University of Dundee 1st team for two years.

Boat

• Caroline Crabb

Dance

• Brooke Haggart
• Megan Haire
• Holly Anderson

Hockey Men's 

• Jamie Spratt

Rugby Men's

• Lachlan Graham

Sailing

• Alistair Coombs
• Fergus Wilson

Surf

• Kasey West

Swimming and Waterpolo

• David Smyth

Trampoline

• Criostai Pringle
• Hannah Rutherford 

Triathlon 

• Iona MacDougall
• Lauren Doney

Full Blues

A Full Blue is awarded to athletes of outstanding ability judged by standards applicable to students’ different sports. A Full Blue athlete should have been selected as a first choice for a Scottish Universities representative team for two seasons. A Full Blue’s skill performance should be of an international standard and in some sports, it is necessary for athletes to play for British or National sides. A Full Blue should also have played in at least 75% of the fixtures for the University of Dundee 1st team for two years.

Archery

• Mykhailo Pavlov 

Pool

• Becca Cooper Lee

Sportsman of the Year

This award recognises our top-performing male athlete who has demonstrated outstanding competitive achievement throughout the year, representing the University in national competition.

This year’s winner only took up his sport on arrival at the University of Dundee three years ago. Since then, their progress in their sport has been exceptional, developing from novice participant to international competitor.

Having been recognised with a Full Blue in last year’s Awards Ceremony, this individual finished 2025, as the top ranked Scottish Barebow archer and 10th ranked overall in the Senior British Outdoor Archery ranking.

With four senior and four Under 21 Scottish caps under his belt, this individual now finds themself as captain of the Scottish Under 21 team.   

Now a regular member of the senior Scotland squad, their exceptional progress in their sport has culminated in them representing Great Britain at the European Indoor Archery Championships in Bulgaria in February, where they won a mixed team bronze medal. 

Tonight’s award- winner was recently quoted in the University Staff Newsletter as saying “I went to the University Sports Union and saw the Archery Society, I thought, ‘I’ll try it out and see how it goes”.  Well, I think we can all agree, it has gone very well indeed!!

This year’s Sportsman of the Year is William Anderson from the University Archery Club.

Sportswoman of the Year

This award recognises our top-performing female athlete who has demonstrated outstanding competitive achievement throughout the year, representing the University in national competition.

This year’s recipient also started her sport of Weightlifting as a complete beginner on arrival at the University, and her progress to international competitor has been highly impressive.

With a change of bodyweight categories in June 2025, she will now hold all 3 British Under-23 and Scottish Senior records in the women’s 45kg category for the Snatch, Clean and Jerk, and Total in perpetuity, as that weight category has been revised to 48kg. 

Having previously represented Team GB at the European Junior and Under-23 Championships, she quite literally raised the bar this academic year (!) competing for Great Britain at the Senior World Championships in October.

With her sights set on representing Scotland at this summer’s Glasgow Commonwealth Games, she competes for Scotland in the European Championships in Georgia at the end of April, in the pursuit of the necessary target weight for Scottish Commonwealth Games selection.

This person is only the second-ever athlete (male or female) to be awarded the University’s top sporting accolade three years in a row.

Alex Mackay from the University Weightlifting Club is the deserving winner of the Sportswoman of the Year award.

The final three awards – Most Progressive Club of the Year, Team of the Year, and Club of the Year - were announced at the Blues and Colours Sports Ball on Friday, 03 April.

Congratulations are in order for:

Most Progressive Club of the Year

•  Equestrian

Team of the Year

•  Surf

Club of the Year

•  Triathlon