With over 290 nominations received, it had been a tough job narrowing these down to a shortlist of 4, for each of the 11 awards. There are over 400 students who take part in the AU, so a massive congratulation to those who were singled out by their peers and/or staff member for their contribution this season.
What an incredible evening the Athletics Union (AU) dinner turned out to be. Celebrating everyone involved, reflecting on all the 2024-2025 season had to bring. Don’t worry cricket we are aware you are still to play, and the year isn’t quite finished yet!
The night was hosted by Wren Sell, who delivered a speech commemorating the highs and lows of the season with notable mentions to a few individuals and clubs who have been exceptional.
With over 290 nominations received, it had been a tough job narrowing these down to a shortlist of 4, for each of the 11 awards. There are over 400 students who take part in the AU, so a massive congratulation to those who were singled out by their peers and/or staff member for their contribution this season.
RAG Contributor of the Year
Sponsored by: P&W Commercials
Winner: Bucks Men’s Rugby
The Rugby club has been highly active this year, hosting several fundraising events. During the first RAG week, they collaborated with the Netball team for the "Pie a Rugby or Netball Player" event, raising £195 each for YES. Following this, they supported Movember by hosting raffles and participating in the Movember party, raising £668 through a month of activities. They further contributed to RAG week 2 with the "Darts for RAG" event, raising £109. The year concluded with a match under the lights against UCFB, raising a further £113.
Most Improved Player of the Year
Winner: Ayaan Aamir
Ayaan joined volleyball with no prior experience but has shown incredible dedication and improvement. He practices relentlessly, edits game footage, and provides insightful analysis. His hard work has transformed him into a reliable libero and an on-court leader. Ayaan's commitment to training his serve-receives, positioning, and diving has made him a player his team can trust. His journey from a novice to a skilled player inspires his teammates and his contribution during the Varsity fixture was invaluable to the overall outcome of their match.
Fresher of the Year
Sponsored by: Buckinghamshire New University Gateway Gym
Winner: Charlotte Lyons
Charlotte has made an outstanding impact on the Dance Club being part of three teams and helping to choreograph some routines. Her infectious energy, dedication, and passion has inspired everyone. Charlotte actively participates in rehearsals, performances, and competitions, fostering an inclusive environment. She volunteers tirelessly, supports her peers, and has taken on significant responsibilities. Beyond dance Charlotte has dedicated many hours to volunteering, actively participated in club takeovers, and attended almost every social event.
Coach of the Year
Winner: Louise Thomson
Coaching two teams that have a 5-tier gap is no small task, but Louise has excelled in leading both to success. She guided the second team to two victories this season, ending their long drought and the first team to an unbeaten 15 match run and Treble. Her ability to inspire players at all levels has been highlighted by her members, bringing fresh ideas to training while maintaining high standards. Louise connects with every player, making them feel valued and pushing them to be their best.
Team of the Year
Sponsored by: The Print Lab
Winner: Bucks Netball 1’s
Scoring an impressive 862 points across 17 fixtures, Netball 1’s had an exceptional season. Clinching the league title after a thrilling final match against Royal Holloway, winning 56-51, where a 4-point gap would confirm their league victory. They triumphed in the BUCS Southeastern Conference Trophy against the reigning champions and won their Varsity fixture, completing a university treble. Their season had its challenges, with double game weeks, throughout which Netball 1’s demonstrated resilience and determination.
Bucks Spirit of Sport Award
Winner: Tyler Smith
Tyler has shown his care, appreciation, and love for the whole of the AU throughout the year, earning his second nomination in successive years. His never-ending positive outlook is celebrated by his fellow students. Tyler has often offered and subsequently been the linesman for Bucks FC and Womens Football. He has played a supportive role within Mens Hockey as well this season, often attending and being a vocal enthusiastic spectator for the team.
Captain of the Year
Sponsored by: A&A travels
Winner: Holly Spittles
Holly has been an outstanding captain, embodying supportiveness, clear communication, fairness, and a team-first mentality. Her leadership has been crucial in steering Netball 1’s to their treble, winning the cup, league, and their varsity match. Holly has fostered a strong sense of unity, allowing the team to work together seamlessly. She should take immense pride in her performance and the remarkable achievements she's led her team to this year. Holly's composed and exemplary leadership earned her well-deserved plaudits from students and staff alike.
Committee Member of the Year
Sponsored by: Westies Dry Cleaners
Winner: Harriet Kozlowski
Taking on both Chair and Captain this year for the BNU Dance Club, Harriet has excelled and fought tirelessly to keep the club progressing this year. Whether that be organising Bucks Dance Comp, the clubs’ accreditation, or masterclasses, all are done with 100% effort. This has earned Hattie recognition from everyone connected to the club, including praise from external dance companies such as ‘Move it’. Harriet’s communication with choreographers, members and SU staff has been exceptional, giving BNU Dance the platform to excel.
Sportswoman of the Year
Sponsored by: Matrix
Winner: Daisy Thompson
Daisy has been a huge inspiration this season, showing admirable attitude on the pitch throughout. As one of the club’s top goal scorers, Daisy has tallied up a brilliant 17 goals and 11 assists for a record 26 goal contribution. Daisy has shined this season. Within her goal tally, it includes her spectacular display during Varsity, where she was involved in all 7 goals scoring a hat-trick with 4 assists. An astonishing foot that rightfully put her in the running for Varsity sportswoman of the day.
Sportsman of the Year
Sponsored by: Reading Rockets
Winner: Tristan Redgrove
Picking up hockey for the first time in a few years. Tristan has had a significant impact on Mens Hockey’s progression this year. Playing as a defender, he has transformed their defence into a solid unit. Reinforced by the Mens Hockey team they did not concede a goal with him in the team during their league campaign and Varsity fixture, that’s eight fantastic clean sheets. His involvement has contributed highly to the overall team’s success in finishing second in the league and gaining promotion.
Club of the Year
Sponsored by: PHVC
Winner: Bucks Men’s Rugby
The Bucks Men’s Rugby club has been actively engaged off the pitch, encouraging members to participate in broader union activities and hosting various events of their own. The club has taken a leading role in Movember, organising a raffle, the Movember takeover, and mental health drop-in sessions. They have raised funds for multiple charities and made a significant impact within the local community, supporting One Can Trust, packing monthly Monday meals, selling poppies, and participating in the Smile Campaign.
Outstanding Contribution to University Sport
Winner: Michael Simpson
This year’s winner Michael Simpson started his involvement with the AU in his first year of university. Quickly establishing himself into Bucks FC, he became a regular competitor, assuming greater levels of responsibility as Vice-Captain and stepping in as captain for a few matches in the second half of the season. He also coached the Womens Football team when they lost their coach early in the season. During his second year Michael was always willing to get involved where needed, helping the club win RAG Contributor of the year for the second time. As a student that went on tour Michael was noticed by staff, as someone who always made sure their club members were included and safe for all activities. In his third year, as Chair and Captain he was the driving force behind the club’s involvement in everything. Quick to respond to any student and staff enquiry he made sure the club functioned and succeeded, he led in all areas of committee, whilst remaining highly professional, approachable, and happy to help. He organised various volunteering and fundraising activities, in which he ensured multiple members of the club got involved in. Finally, this year, if running the club wasn’t enough, he was one of the Sport for Fun Ambassadors for Football, running weekly sessions in the hall.
Hall of Fame
Inductee: Stephen Smith
Stephen burst onto the scene in his first year at university, qualifying in first place at the BUCS Regional Snow Sports Championships in November 2022, going on to win gold at the BUCS Snowboarding Freestyle Championships Finals in February the following year. Stephen's second year at BNU witnessed him maintain his record of strong performances, winning silver at the BUCS Snowboarding Freestyle Championship Finals. In his third year, Stephen's unwavering dedication and hard work culminated in another gold medal at the BUCS National Snowboarding Freestyle Championship Finals. Stephen’s remarkable application and discipline were evident in his ability to balance demanding course requirements as a student paramedic, alongside his snowboarding pursuits.
A huge congratulations to everyone who was shortlisted and a big well done to all our winners this year. We are so incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication you have shown to Bucks, and your club this year.