Double Recognition at National Level: Neil Allan and 1XI Shortlisted for Scottish Student Sport Awards
We are delighted to announce that Neil Allan, Head Coach of the Edinburgh University Men’s Hockey 1XI, has been shortlisted for Scottish Student Sport’s Coach of the Year, while the 1XI themselves have been named finalists for Scottish Student Sport’s Team of the Year. These nominations represent a monumental year for both Neil and the squad, and mark the club’s continued presence at the pinnacle of student sport in Scotland.
Neil Allan – Coach of the Year Finalist
Since taking charge of the 1XI, Neil Allan has overseen a transformation of the team into one of the most dominant forces in student hockey across the UK. This season, under his leadership, the team completed an unbeaten BUCS campaign, winning BUCS Premier North, and went on to win a playoff against Cardiff Met, earning promotion to the prestigious BUCS Premier National division for 2025/26.
Neil's tactical knowledge, calm authority, and developmental approach have brought out the best in a talented squad. His coaching influence extended far beyond university competition. Five of his players — Iain McFadden, Jamie Croll, Jamie Golden, Matt Taylor and Keir Robb — earned Scotland senior caps this season, reflecting the elite environment Neil has fostered within the club.
The silverware didn’t stop there. The 1XI made history by winning the Scottish Cup, becoming the first ever Men’s University side to do so, defeating Hillhead in a stunning final. Days later, the squad travelled to Nottingham for Big BUCS Wednesday, where they produced a thrilling 3–3 draw against Nottingham Trent in the BUCS National Vase final, before emerging victorious in a shootout thanks to a George Aspden masterclass.
In addition to his university work, Neil also served as the Assistant Coach to the Scotland Men’s National Team, helping guide them to victory at the FIH Nations Cup 2 — a testament to his growing reputation in the wider sport.
1XI – Team of the Year Finalists
The nomination of the 1XI for Scottish Student Sport Team of the Year is richly deserved. It was a season that combined history-making success, consistent elite performances, and a tangible sense of momentum. From going unbeaten in BUCS to securing their place among the elite in Premier National, from lifting the Scottish Cup to dominating in high-pressure playoff fixtures, the 1XI have set a new benchmark for what university hockey teams can achieve in Scotland.
Their achievements also underscore the strength of Edinburgh University Hockey Club's broader vision, where high performance is matched with character, community, and commitment.
Looking Ahead
This double nomination is not just recognition of past success, but a glimpse of what’s to come. With Neil Allan at the helm and a squad now tested at the highest levels of student hockey, the club is set to step confidently onto the national stage once again in 2025/26.
The winners of the Scottish Student Sport Awards will be announced at the Scottish Student Sport Awards night on 11th June. Regardless of the outcome, we are immensely proud of both Neil and the 1XI and thank them for flying the flag for Edinburgh University Men’s Hockey with such class and excellence.