Introduction to the Sport and Society Awards.
The Students’ Union Activities Awards celebrate the achievements, impact, and dedication of both individuals and student activities
Each year, we recognise individuals and activities who go above and beyond to create vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring opportunities for students and improving student life.The awards also recognise sporting performance of sport clubs and individuals within the University of Aberdeen.
The awards are presented as part of our annual 'Activities Ball' celebrations bringing the student activities community together.
Sport and Society Award Nominations 2026
Activities Ball 2026 Tickets
Below is a list of all the awards available and a little background to each
Sports Awards
AJM Edwards Memorial Award (Exceptional Services to a Club)
This is one of the most prestigious trophies awarded to an individual. The award is in memory of Mr Freddie Edwards, Honorary President of the Athletic Association from 1976-1983, and is awarded to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to University sport over a number of years. The contribution is in the form of exceptional active or administrative services to the club, made either as a faithful club servant, committee member, coach or player. Nominations are made to the Blue’s Committee.
Blues Bowl (Fresher of the Year)
The Blues Bowl award was created in memory of Duncan Watson (1965-1985) and is awarded annually at the discretion of the Blues Committee. It is awarded to the Fresher who has made an outstanding contribution to their Club(s), both on and off the field, during the previous academic year, and who is under twenty-one years of age.
Sandy Morrison Memorial Trophy (Athlete of the Year)
The Sandy Morrison Memorial Trophy is an award dedicated to the memory of Sandy Morrison, a groundsman at the University for many years, and is presented to an individual who has shown outstanding achievement at their chosen sport during the academic year.
The Centenary Cup (Individual or Team in a Single Event)
The Centenary Cup was first awarded in 1991 to celebrate one hundred years of the Athletic Association and is presented due to the generosity of past members of the Athletic Association. It is awarded at the discretion of the Blue’s Committee, to an individual or team who excelled in a single event.
Allender Memorial Trophy (Club of the Year)
This trophy is presented in memory of Gerry Allender, an Assistant Director of Physical Education, who was killed in a car crash in 1963. It is awarded to the “Most Deserving Club”. This does not necessarily mean the Club with the best record over the year. Many other criteria are taken into account; for example, money-raising efforts, Club Committee organisation, events organised by the Club (i.e. tours, dances, etc), and efforts to encourage new members.
Society Awards
Society of the Year
This award is given for a society that can demonstrate outstanding achievement in a variety of areas by providing a great experience
for their members, development of their activity as well as a positive representation of themselves and the institution.
Best Event
This award celebrates an outstanding event put on by one society or by several societies within the current academic year.
Most Dedicated Society
This award is given based on the progress and delivery of a society’s development plan and goals for the year.