History of Sport at the University of Edinburgh

Overview of the Project

Sport at the University of Edinburgh has shaped student life for more than 160 years and created unforgettable moments, life-long friendships, and opportunities that have defined generations!

However, the full sweep of this remarkable story has not been captured in almost 60 years: the last published history of University sport marked the Sports Union’s centenary in 1966; as the 160th anniversary approaches, we now have the chance to bring that story up to date.

This project aims to chart the evolution of sport at Edinburgh: how it has grown, adapted, and flourished across eras of change.

From the evolution of clubs and the growth of the Sports Union to iconic triumphs, traditions, characters, and controversies, this book will capture not just what happened, but the energy, passion, and personality behind it!

By weaving together institutional history with the human stories that give sport its soul, we hope to create a narrative that is vivid, engaging, and enduring.

Above all, this will be a definitive archive and a lasting celebration of our sporting heritage. It will preserve key moments and achievements, honour those who shaped the journey, and inspire future students to step into a legacy that continues to grow every single year!

How You Can Help

To tell this story well, we need the voices of the people who lived it. That’s where you come in!

While the team will be contacting key figures and carrying out extensive research, the richness of this project depends on contributions from the wider community: students, alumni, staff, and anyone who has helped shape the sporting life of the University.

We want to tell your club’s story. We want to tell your story.

There are three ways to get involved:

1. Complete a short survey (5-30 minutes depending on how much you wish to share) 

2. Send documents, anecdotes, articles, or photos to: sports.history@ed.ac.uk

3. Record a quick voice note with an anecdote or memory and send to: sports.history@ed.ac.uk

While not every submission can be included in the book, all contributions will help inform the narrative. We also plan to create an online platform where additional stories and club materials can be shared.

Management of the Project

The project is led by Simon Messenger, EUSU President (2007-08), supported by an experienced oversight group representing decades of involvement in Edinburgh sport:

  • Liv Stevens - EUSU President (2025-26)
  • Irene McTernan - EUSU Secretary (1980-2011)
  • Stew Fowlie - EUSU President (2002-03)
  • Peter Sawkins - EUSU President (2023-24)
  • Ian Stevens - EUSU President (1984-85)
  • Jim Aitken - Former Director, Centre for Sport and Exercise
  • Alan Chainey - Former Director of Physical Education
  • Murdo Gillanders - Long-term EUSU Advisor
  • Ed Manning - EUSU Vice-President (2006-07)

Throughout 2026, the group will coordinate research, gather contributions, and develop the manuscript, with plans to confirm an expected publication date in the second half of the year.

All contributors are volunteers.

Find Out More

To learn more about the project or get involved, contact: sports.history@ed.ac.uk