The Deep RiverRock Blues Awards made a brilliant return to the Whitla Hall on Thursday 5 June 2025, celebrating the outstanding sporting achievements, commitment, and dedication of Queen’s student-athletes, coaches, and volunteers.

Compered by BBC Northern Ireland sports journalist Thomas Niblock, the Blues Awards are a key highlight of the sporting year at Queen’s. The event not only recognises athletic success but also celebrates the positive impact of all those who contribute to sport and wellbeing on campus.

This year, 70 Blues Awards were presented to students representing 20 different sports, including Rugby, Badminton, Equestrian, Table Tennis and Swimming. These awards acknowledge high-level competitive performances while balancing the demands of university study – a testament to the hard work, discipline, and resilience of Queen’s student-athletes.

Celebrating Outstanding Contributions

The evening concluded with a series of Special Achievement Awards, recognising individuals and teams who have made an exceptional impact throughout the year:

• Team of the Year – 1st XI Women’s Hockey

• Coach of the Year – Simon Bell (Women’s Hockey)

• Hidden Hero Award – Lois Newby (Snooker and Pool)

• Community Impact Award – Cleveland Project

• Inspirational Sporting Award (in association with Queen’s Widening Participation) – Mackenzie Platt

Hall of Fame Inductions

A highlight of the evening was the induction of two new members into the Queen’s University Sporting Hall of Fame – a prestigious honour recognising lifelong contributions and achievements in sport:

• Rebecca Edwards – Team GB Olympic rower and Queen’s Rowing alumna

• Kieran McGeeney – All-Ireland winning Gaelic football manager with Armagh and former student-athlete at Queen’s

Congratulations to all award recipients and to everyone who contributed to the success of the Blues Awards 2025. 

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