BUCS Football Development Network Day & Awards 2026

Ramadan Football – Teesside University

Ramadan Football, delivered by Teesside University in partnership with Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation, received the 2026 BUCS Football & Futsal Community Engagement Award for its outstanding work in bringing together university and local communities through inclusive football activity during Ramadan.

Delivered between 19 February and 5 March, the initiative provided late-night social football sessions following the breaking of fast, creating a welcoming environment for participants from a wide range of cultural and religious backgrounds. Despite one session being cancelled due to adverse weather, the programme engaged 170 unique participants, with 90.7% identifying as Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic and 29.4% identifying as Muslim.

The initiative was developed to strengthen relationships between the university and the wider Middlesbrough community, while also supporting community cohesion following the UK riots in 2024. Sessions remained open and accessible to all communities regardless of faith or background, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusion, understanding and belonging.

Alongside football activity, participants also had access to wellbeing support and Health MOTs delivered through the MFC Foundation Health & Wellbeing Team.

Argyle Community Trust – Academic Partnership, Plymouth Marjon University

The Argyle Community Trust – Academic Partnership at Plymouth Marjon University received the 2026 BUCS Football & Futsal Workforce Development Award for creating an innovative model that combines academic study, performance football and applied professional experience.

Since launching in 2023, the partnership has developed a clear workforce pathway for students across both men’s and women’s football. Alongside training and competition, students gain access to placements and paid opportunities across Plymouth Argyle Football Club and Argyle Community Trust in areas including coaching, strength and conditioning, sports therapy, community delivery, education, finance and marketing.

The programme currently supports 28 students in placement roles, while 77% of the current Argyle Community Trust staffing structure is made up of Marjon alumni, demonstrating the long-term impact and sustainability of the model.

Students are also supported with professional qualifications and wider employability development, creating a strong bridge between higher education and careers within football. The partnership has additionally supported player progression within the football pyramid, showcasing the strength of an environment built around development, opportunity and real-world experience.
 

Ollie Newbould – National Medical Schools FC, Imperial College London

Ollie Newbould received the 2026 BUCS Football & Futsal Enhancing Student Experience Award for founding the National Medical Schools FC, an innovative initiative bringing together medical students from across the UK through football.

Established in late 2025, the initiative created the first national football team connecting medical students from over 20 medical schools, providing opportunities to build friendships, professional relationships and a wider sense of community beyond university campuses. Ollie independently coordinated the project, personally engaging with 22 medical schools across the country to build the network and recruit players.

The team has already secured external sponsorship support and successfully hosted its inaugural fixture against the British Army at Reading FC’s training facility, with students travelling from cities including Aberdeen, Glasgow, Cardiff, Leeds, Southampton, Brighton and London to take part in a memorable 4-2 victory.

Alongside demonstrating exceptional leadership, communication and organisational skills, Ollie identified a clear gap in sporting provision for medical students and transformed an idea into a national initiative with long-term potential. Balancing the project alongside the demands of a fifth-year medical degree makes the achievement even more impressive.

Women’s Football Club Committee 2025–26 – University of Exeter

The Women’s Football Club Committee at University of Exeter received the 2026 BUCS Football & Futsal Committee Excellence Award in recognition of an exceptional year of leadership, growth and impact across women’s football.

Throughout the 2025–26 season, the committee significantly expanded participation within the club, growing membership to over 160 players through improved recruitment and increased opportunities for engagement. Alongside strengthening the internal player pathway, the committee also developed strong partnerships with Exeter City Community Trust and local schools to create clearer opportunities for girls progressing into higher education football.

On the pitch, the club achieved record-breaking success, including winning its first ever BUCS Southern Premier League title and securing England Universities representation. The committee also launched the club’s first Football Spotlight fixture at St James Park in partnership with Her Game Too, helping raise the visibility of women’s football across the city.

Alongside competitive success, the committee prioritised player wellbeing and inclusivity through access to strength and conditioning support, physiotherapy provision and mental wellbeing initiatives, creating a sustainable and welcoming environment for all members.

Chris Smith – University Academy 92

Chris Smith from University Academy 92 received the 2026 BUCS Football & Futsal Outstanding Contribution Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication to developing football and futsal opportunities for students.

As Football & Futsal Development Officer, Chris has played a leading role in creating a thriving programme that now engages over 200 students across the institution. During the 2025–26 season, he supported UA92 clubs to achieve significant success, including three football league titles and one futsal title.

Alongside overseeing the recruitment and development of coaches across the programme, Chris has also created valuable workforce and placement opportunities for students, including coaching roles and support through the Emerging Club Leaders programme. His commitment extends far beyond day-to-day responsibilities, regularly attending weekend futsal fixtures and away football matches to support students and club committees.

Chris is widely recognised for the personal approach he brings to his role, taking time to understand students individually and creating an environment where students feel valued, supported and connected. His passion, consistency and selfless commitment have played a major role in building a football programme that students are proud to represent.