Tag: Sport

Prize money up and record attendances as Musselburgh Racecourse bucks national trend

Increased prize money, record attendances at its New Year’s Day and Edinburgh Cup meetings, and a boost in hospitality guests underlined a successful 2024 for Musselburgh Racecourse.

An annual report on the East Lothian track’s performance showed prize money at the East Lothian course totalled £2,429,600 – up by 6.3% on the previous year – and an 14.6% increase on prize money in 2022.

Musselburgh also attracted more hospitality guests – 3,938 last year compared to 3,587 in 2023 – and Annual Membership grew by 16% from 263 in 2023 to 306 in 2024.

The racecourse would have recorded an increase in total attendance for the year if it had not been forced to abandon its hugely popular Easter Saturday fixture due to weather and which usually attracts a 5,000 strong crowd.

With two less meetings run in 2024 (25) compared to 2023 (27), total attendance was a healthy 58,744, down from 60,294 in 2023, but average attendance at meetings run was up from 2,319 to 2,448.

Across its premium race days, Musselburgh enjoyed significant crowd increases with a 11.5% jump and an extra 653 racegoers on New Year’s Day (6,289 compared to 5,636 in 2023) and almost a 20% boost at the Edinburgh Cup fixture (5,966 compared to 5,048 in 2023).

Musselburgh’s annual Friday Night at the Races fixture in early August enjoyed it’s largest crowd to date of 4,375, while Ladies Day was an 8,000 capacity sell-out – an increase of almost 600 on the previous year – and the 20th year in succession that Ladies Day has sold out.

A new Oktoberfest themed race day in September was a huge hit with racegoers and compared to the 2023 meeting held on the same date there as a 1,600 bump in attendance.

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The figures show a strong performance with significant increases in attendance at our key meetings and it could have been even better if we had not lost our Easter Saturday meeting, which was very disappointing.

“Our ground staff worked exceptionally hard in 2024, often in adverse conditions, to keep the track and facilities in tip-top condition, and the commercial team achieved outstanding results by increasing like-for-like attendances, which bucked the national trend.

“With family budgets under pressure and lots of competing sporting and entertainment options, we are constantly upping our game to ensure that Musselburgh Racecourse remains a compelling offering for those looking for an exciting and enjoyable day, afternoon or evening out.”

Mixu Paatelainen unveiled as Spartans Sporting Director

The Spartans are delighted to welcome Mixu Paatelainen as their new Sporting Director, supporting our Men’s and Women’s senior teams and our Men’s Under 20 team.

70 times capped for his native Finland, Paatelainen takes up the new role at The Spartans where he will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise courtesy of a playing career spanning two decades, followed up by eighteen years in managerial roles on both a domestic and national arena.

Speaking of his decision to join The Spartans, Mixu Paatelainen said: “I’ve been very impressed how people go about things, how organised they are, how good the people who are in charge are, and their ambition.

“Everybody knows that Spartans is a community club who do a lot for the kids – boys and girls – which is fabulous. The facilities are fantastic and what struck me straight away is that people are very ambitious, they don’t want to be a League 2 club all the way, they want to go forward and do better, and it’s a wonderful club, wonderful people, so I want to be part of that.

“I will step on nobody’s toes, that’s for sure – I want to be a sounding board. I know some head coaches, when there’s a sporting director coming to a club for the first time, they might be alarmed and worry that people think they are not doing a good enough job. That is not the case here.  Dougie has done a fantastic job, there’s no question, and this is just another piece in the jigsaw. It’s as simple as that.

“We want to  try to make us stronger and hopefully improve us enough to take the next step.”

Chairman Craig Graham added, “Mixu’s appointment brings us so much expertise.  He will support me, my fellow Directors and all our coaches as we continue to grow and develop our club.  It’s a brilliant appointment for us.

“We are an ambitious club and the Mixu will help us drive forward all aspects of our strategic agenda.  After a hugely successful playing and managerial career Mixu now has a senior role in the UEFA Technical team and with the SFA in coach education.

“He is so passionate about football and to helping others develop, it’s such an exciting move for us.” 

Foysol Choudhury MSP celebrates Scotland’s first Transplant Football Team

Foysol Choudhury, MSP for Lothian, calls for the celebration of Scotland’s first ever transplant football team, encouraging progression post-procedure. Scotland has made history with the formation of its first-ever transplant football team, a groundbreaking initiative that brings together individuals who have undergone organ, stem-cell, or bone marrow transplants.

The mixed-gender team, with an average age of 40, welcomes players from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where transplant recipients can connect with others who have faced similar challenges. The club’s mission extends beyond fitness—it’s about reclaiming life after a transplant, proving that recovery is not just about survival but about thriving. 

The health benefits of the club go far beyond physical activity. Jelina Berlow-Rahman, the only female player on the team, embodies the spirit of resilience. Diagnosed with kidney failure at 26, she endured four years on dialysis before receiving her transplant.

Remarkably, she built her own law firm while undergoing treatment, demonstrating the power of perseverance. Jelina shares the team’s message: “Anyone can play, for however long they want. Everyone is welcome. It’s fine to play continuously and guide one another.” 

For many transplant recipients, the journey doesn’t end with surgery—it’s a lifelong process of adapting to new challenges. The team provides a support system, helping players overcome emotional and physical hurdles that often accompany major medical procedures. Many patients struggle with mental health difficulties post-transplant, feeling isolated or uncertain about their future.

Football offers them an outlet for expression, a way to regain confidence, and a chance to honour their donors. The Scottish Transplant Football Team has already made waves in the international transplant sports community.

Despite being only six months old, the team competed in the 2025 European Transplant Football Championships, facing off against seasoned teams from across the continent. Scotland was the only mixed-gender team in the tournament, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. 

The squad, founded by Duncan MacAulay, an Inverness-based fire service worker who underwent a heart transplant, has rapidly grown into a 21-player team.

Their participation in the Euros was a testament to their determination, securing an 8-1 victory over Ireland before battling against top-tier opponents like Spain and Italy. Jelina Berlow-Rahman also made history as the first woman to play for Scotland’s transplant football team at an international level. Her presence on the pitch was a powerful statement about breaking barriers and proving that transplant recipients can achieve incredible feats. 

The team’s journey is just beginning. With plans to expand recruitment, raise awareness about organ donation, and compete in the 2026 Transplant Football World Cup, Scotland’s transplant footballers are determined to inspire others and change perceptions about life after transplantation. 

Their message is clear: transplant recipients are not defined by their medical history—they are athletes, professionals, and individuals with limitless potential.

Commenting, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “The Scottish Transplant Football Team is more than just a sports club—it’s a lifeline for players seeking physical and mental well-being, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose.

“Through football, they are proving that life after a transplant is not just about survival—it’s about thriving, competing, and celebrating second chances.”

SPFL announces 2024/25 William Hill Premiership post-split fixtures

The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has today published the post-split fixture list for the William Hill Premiership following another dramatic weekend of football.

St Mirren secured their place in the top six with a 3-2 victory over Ross County on Saturday, to join Celtic, Rangers, Hibernian, Dundee United and Aberdeen in the top half of the table.

The schedule for the final five fixture rounds has now been confirmed, with the 30 games to be played across the weekend of April 26/27, the weekend of May 3/4, the weekend of May 10/11, the midweek of May 13/14 and the weekend of May 17/18.

The final top-six fixtures in this season’s William Hill Premiership will take place on Saturday May 17, kick-off 12.30pm, while the bottom six will conclude on Sunday May 18 at 3.00pm.

For the first time since 2017/18 unfortunately it has not been possible to ensure that all clubs will have 19 home games and 19 away games across the season. In the top six, St Mirren will play 20 home fixtures and in the bottom six Motherwell will have 18 home games. Motherwell were the last club to gain a home game when a 19/19 balance could not be achieved in 2017/18, with Heart of Midlothian having only 18 home fixtures on that occasion.

Celtic will have the opportunity to win the title away to Dundee United in the first post-split fixture on Saturday April 26, live on Sky Sports at 12.30pm, while their final meeting of the season with Rangers will be at Ibrox on Sunday May 4, live on Sky Sports at 12 noon.

Sky Sports will also show Rangers v Aberdeen on Sunday May 11, kick-off 12 noon, and Celtic v St Mirren on Saturday May 17, kick-off 12.30pm. Sky may also select a match in due course for live broadcast in fixture round 37.

David Gray’s Hibernian, who are on a 17-game unbeaten run and sit third in the table, begin their postsplit matches away to Aberdeen before hosting Dundee United the following week.

In the bottom half of the table, only a single point separates the clubs in ninth, 10th and 11th position and two of them, Kilmarnock and Ross County, go head to head at Rugby Park in fixture round 34. Dundee, who currently occupy the relegation play-off spot, begin their run-in against Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle.

Calum Beattie, SPFL Chief Operating Officer, said: “It was another hugely exciting weekend of football, with three clubs going into Saturday’s matches separated by only a single point in the battle for the final top-six place and St Mirren making the cut with a late winner.

“I’m pleased to be able to publish the fixtures and TV selections for the remaining five rounds of the William Hill Premiership. There is so much to play for between now and the end of the season, with the title, European qualification and relegation places all on the line. It all gets started with a huge match at Tannadice on Saturday April 26, live on Sky Sports.”

POST-SPLIT MATCHES CONFIRMED FOR LIVE BROADCAST ON SKY SPORTS

Saturday April 26: Dundee United v Celtic (Sky Sports, 12.30pm)
Sunday May 4: Rangers v Celtic (Sky Sports, 12 noon)
Sunday May 11: Rangers v Aberdeen (Sky Sports, 12 noon)
Saturday May 17: Celtic v St Mirren (Sky Sports, 12.30pm)

William Hill Premiership fixture rounds 34-38 announced

TOP-SIX FIXTURES

Saturday April 26
Dundee United v Celtic (Sky Sports, 12.30pm)
Aberdeen v Hibernian (3.00pm)
St Mirren v Rangers (3.00pm)

Saturday May 3
Hibernian v Dundee United (3.00pm)
St Mirren v Aberdeen (3.00pm)

Sunday May 4
Rangers v Celtic (Sky Sports, 12 noon)

Saturday May 10
Celtic v Hibernian (3.00pm)
Dundee United v St Mirren (3.00pm)

Sunday May 11
Rangers v Aberdeen (Sky Sports, 12 noon)

Wednesday May 14
Aberdeen v Celtic (7.45pm)
Rangers v Dundee United (7.45pm)
St Mirren v Hibernian (7.45pm)

Saturday May 17
Celtic v St Mirren (Sky Sports, 12.30pm)
Dundee United v Aberdeen (12.30pm)
Hibernian v Rangers (12.30pm)

BOTTOM-SIX FIXTURES    

Saturday April 26
Heart of Midlothian v Dundee (3.00pm)
Kilmarnock v Ross County (3.00pm)
Motherwell v St Johnstone (3.00pm)

Saturday May 3
Dundee v Motherwell (3.00pm)
Ross County v Heart of Midlothian (3.00pm)
St Johnstone v Kilmarnock (3.00pm)

Saturday May 10
Heart of Midlothian v Motherwell (3.00pm)
Kilmarnock v Dundee (3.00pm)
St Johnstone v Ross County (3.00pm)

Wednesday May 14
Dundee v Ross County (7.45pm)
Heart of Midlothian v St Johnstone (7.45pm)
Motherwell v Kilmarnock (7.45pm)

Sunday May 18
Kilmarnock v Heart of Midlothian (3.00pm)
Ross County v Motherwell (3.00pm)
St Johnstone v Dundee (3.00pm)

Please note: Sky Sports may select a Round 37 match (midweek of May 14) in due course

Bouldering Zone Opens at EICA: Ratho

The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) at Ratho has unveiled a new bouldering room designed for children and novice climbers, following the recent addition of new bouldering walls in December.

Situated in the former Tiso retail unit, this new bouldering room offers a comprehensive and progressive facility, providing additional space for junior and adult coaching. It also serves as a warm, welcoming area for casual climbers, members, and coaching clients during the winter months.

The child-friendly environment is perfect for those transitioning from Scrambles soft play and Clip ‘n Climb. Additionally, it will function as an ‘isolation’ zone during regional, national, and international competitions and training camps.

These two new developments—the bouldering walls and the dedicated bouldering room—allow EICA to meet the growing demand for climbing facilities. They provide entry routes for complete beginners and enhance coaching pathways up to the highest levels of world-class competition.

Nic Crawshaw, Climbing Operations Manager at EICA: Ratho, commented: “It’s been a privilege to see this project come to fruition, offering even more opportunities for climbers to push their limits and refine their skills.

“The new developments enable us to expand our world-class indoor climbing facilities for people of all ages and stages, while staying up-to-date with the latest trends. Sport climbing includes three Olympic disciplines – Lead, Speed, and Boulder—and the improved facilities make EICA the only venue with international standard walls for all three disciplines, and one of only a few worldwide.”

Indoor bouldering has become the most widely practiced form of climbing. As the sport has grown in popularity and become an Olympic event, the accessibility and low barriers to participation have led to a surge in the number of bouldering walls globally.

Jamie Smith, Development Manager at Climb Scotland said: “It is fantastic to see this phase of EICA bouldering offer now open to the public.

“This is a great addition to the venue, providing a great first stepping stone in the pathway, introducing new people to our sport, in an inclusive space and environment.

“This space will naturally complement the new arena boulders by offering progression at a grassroots level, feeding into the more challenging terrain and grading found on the arena boulders.

“We are also excited to utilise the new boulders in our forthcoming Scottish Boulder Championships on the 26-27 April, which historically has attracted over 230 competitors from across the UK and internationally.

“The boulder room will likely function as a fantastic warm up area and/or isolation, whilst the main competition takes place on the new world class boulders in the arena.

“We look forward to working with the team at EICA in also attracting potential international competitions and events in the future, along hosting training for our development and national squads, supporting the performance pathway in Scotland for up-and-coming talented climbers.”

The boulders, crafted by leading climbing wall manufacturer Dreamwall in Sofia, Bulgaria, arrived at EICA in October, accompanied by their expert construction team. The holds, macros, and volumes are from the exciting brands in the Serious Climbing stable, which were prominently featured at the Olympics and the IFSC World Cup series.

The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena received £100,000 towards the bouldering redevelopment to enhance opportunities for climbers at all levels. This funding was made possible by sportscotland’s Sport Facilities Fund and National Lottery players, who raise £30 million each week for good causes across the UK.

As the UK’s largest climbing gym and the only international competition venue, EICA has hosted European Championships and World Cup events for Lead and Speed in recent years. The upgraded bouldering facilities now enable it to host all three IFSC (International Federation of Sport Climbing) and Olympic disciplines.

For further information and to join:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/climbing/

New Futsal class at Craigroyston

We have a new Futsal class for players aged 9 – 12yrs starting after the Easter Break.

Indoors at Craigroyston Community High School on Thursdays from 4.30 – 5.30pm

Book online at https://scf.classforkids.io or contact Paul for more information: footballdd@spartanscf.com

£100 million to revamp local sports facilities across UK

People across the UK will benefit from upgraded sports facilities in their local area thanks to £100 million invested by UK Government

  • Major package to upgrade hundreds of local grassroots sports facilities with new and improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts and floodlights
  • Investment will target deprived areas and support greater access and participation levels among under-represented groups
  • At least 40% of funded projects have a multi-sport offer ensuring more can participate and get active as the Government delivers its ‘Plan for Change‘

People across the UK will benefit from upgraded sports facilities in their local area thanks to £100 million invested by government yesterday.

Working together with the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation in England, the Cymru Football Foundation in Wales, and the Football Associations in Scotland and Northern Ireland, the funding is expected to support hundreds of new and improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts and floodlights to improve access to sport and physical activity for local communities. 

It will be targeted at deprived areas and support greater access and participation levels among under-represented people including women and girls, ethnic minority groups and disabled players.  

The major package delivers on the Government’s Plan for Change, with the funding designed to break down barriers to opportunity and tackle persistent health inequalities through prevention, that will support an NHS fit for the future.

These facilities also encourage communities to come together and give young people opportunities to build vital skills and connections while creating a sense of purpose and pride in where they live.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced the funding during a visit to Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club, a grassroots football facility in Midlothian, Scotland which supports over 700 players. 

The funding will be invested in sites during 2025/26, with £82.3 million allocated to projects in England (including a £2 million uplift of new investment committed in the current financial year), £8.6 million in Scotland, £6.1 million in Wales and £3 million in Northern Ireland. 

It follows the Culture Secretary’s pledge to inspire the next generation as the Lionesses go to UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 this summer as defending champions, and England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland look ahead to hosting UEFA EURO 2028. 

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “Grassroots sport clubs are at the heart of communities across the UK. That’s why we’re investing £100 million to support new and upgraded pitches, changing rooms and clubhouses across the country, providing transformational funding to the areas that need it most.

“As we deliver our Plan for Change, we will remove barriers to an active lifestyle and increase opportunity for all, ensuring that wherever people may live, they can access high quality sports facilities and experience the joy that sport brings.

Government funding through the Multi-Sport Grassroots Facilities Programme is amplified by significant contributions by The FA and Premier League in England. Delivery partners also leverage investment from local stakeholders through initiatives such as the Scottish FA and Scottish Football Partnership Trust’s ‘Pitching in’ campaign which aims to raise £50 million for football facilities over the next five years. “

https://twitter.com/i/status/1903109169420419211

Of the funded projects, at least 40% will have a multi-sport offer so that more people can participate in sports other than football, meaning more people can get access to a wider variety of sports and activities that appeal to them including rugby, cricket and basketball. 

Clubs and organisations across the UK are now being urged to come forward and apply for funding. Applications can be made in England via the Football Foundation on an ongoing basis, and in Wales via the Cymru Football Foundation.

Dedicated windows are opening shortly in Scotland and Northern Ireland with those interested encouraged to check relevant FA websites for more details. The first tranche of beneficiaries are expected to be confirmed in summer 2025. 

The Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray, said: “Grassroots sports are the backbone of Scottish communities, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to take part in physical activities.

“Through this scheme almost 100 facilities across Scotland, including in our island and rural communities, have been built or upgraded and with this new funding we can look forward to many more.

“As a lifelong football fan I am excited as we build towards hosting Euro2028. I look forward to working with the SFA to ensure everyone has the opportunity to play our national sport – as we support the team on the biggest stage.”

Scottish FA President, Mike Mulraney said: “When I became President, I made no secret of the fact that improving facilities at all levels should be the association’s No.1 priority.

“We are grateful to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport and partners for this latest commitment, which will enable us to further improve the infrastructure of our national sport.

“This will increase participation, improve health and wellbeing and allow more people to experience the Power of Football.

“It follows the Scottish FA’s commitment to ensuring profits are diverted to facilities and infrastructure via our Pitching In fund and I look forward to further strengthening our partnership with UK Government, DCMS and Scottish Government, as well as philanthropic and business communities, to rejuvenate Scottish football’s facilities footprint.”

Year of Rugby, A Legacy of Giving: Celebrate National Wooden Spoon Day tomorrow

As the dust settles on the Men’s Six Nations and anticipation builds for the Women’s Six Nations, the Lions Tour, and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, there’s never been a better time to celebrate rugby’s power to unite and inspire.

Rugby isn’t just about the game—it’s about community, resilience, and making a difference. That’s exactly what Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, has been doing since 1983.

This National Wooden Spoon Day, on 19th March, we invite rugby fans and communities across the UK and Ireland to come together, honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon.

Whether you’re passing a rugby ball, fundraising, or simply spreading the word, every action counts. Let’s turn our passion for rugby into a force for good..

Get ready to join the celebration as National Wooden Spoon Day takes place on 19th March, marking the anniversary of Wooden Spoon’s founding in 1983. This special day is a chance to honour the rich history and incredible impact of Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, dedicated to supporting children with disabilities or facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland.

Wooden Spoon’s supporters, beneficiaries, and the wider rugby community are coming together to raise awareness and funds in a fun and meaningful way. We are inviting all to get involved. Whether you choose to host a fundraising event, take part in a rugby match, wear Wooden Spoon colours, or simply spread the word on social media, every action – big or small – makes a difference!

How You Can Get Involved

There are countless ways to celebrate #WoodenSpoonDay and show your support:

  • Post on Social Media: Either using the National wooden Spoon Day graphics or getting involved with The Pass the ball campaign
  • Organise a Mufti Day or Wooden Spoon Decorating Competition: A fun way for children to participate while raising funds.
  • Host a Fundraising Event: Plan a charity lunch, bake sale, or raffle to support the cause.
  • Wear Wooden Spoon Colours: Show solidarity and spread awareness by donning Wooden Spoon-themed outfits.
  • Join the ‘Pass the Ball’ Social Media Campaign: Take part in the viral movement kicking off on the 19th March
  • Donate to Wooden Spoon

Recent impact : Sensory room at Murrayfield Stadium

In February 2025, a new sensory room was officially opened at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh by HRH, The Princess Royal.

Funded by a £9,000 grant from Wooden Spoon Edinburgh, this facility provides a quieter, supportive space for rugby fans and concertgoers who may feel overwhelmed by the passionate atmosphere at Scotland’s largest stadium.

Scottish Rugby introduced this dedicated sensory space to ensure that everyone, including individuals with sensory sensitivities, can enjoy events in a comfortable and inclusive environment.

Sarah Webb, CEO of Wooden Spoon, encourages everyone to take part: “National Wooden Spoon Day is a fantastic opportunity for communities to come together and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

“Whether you’re passing a rugby ball, hosting an event, or simply spreading the word, every action helps us continue our mission. Join us on 19th March and be part of something truly special.”

Make Some Noise for Wooden Spoon!

With your help, we can make National Wooden Spoon Day bigger and better than ever. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts and use #WoodenSpoonDay to spread the word.

Follow us on social media:

@WoodenSpoonCharity | @charityspoon | Wooden Spoon Charity |

For more information or to get involved, please visit:

https://woodenspoon.org.uk/national-wooden-spoon-day

Messi set to land in Edinburgh! 

  • A lucky Scot could score a signed Messi bottle and be in with the chance of scoring the ultimate prize: a trip for two to Miami to watch Messi’s team, Inter Miami CF 
  • Ten imited-edition bottles with hidden “golden caps” are scattered across ten SPAR stores in the UK from today  
  • Más+ by Messi, the positive hydration drink created by the football legend, Messi, is now available throughout the UK 

Leo Messi is set to land in Edinburgh after the city’s local SPAR was selected as one of only ten shops to receive a special drop of his everyday hydration drink Más+ by Messi.  

Global football icon Leo Messi is challenging supporters to embark on a thrilling scavenger hunt to celebrate the arrival of the drink in the UK. 

Messi has challenged his legions of supporters to find one of ten special bottles of his new drink, each holding the key to money-can’t-buy prizes.  

Starting today Monday 17th March at 4pm in select UK Spar stores, lucky customers can find one of ten signed golden-capped editions in any of the flavours of Más+ by Messi. They come with ​​an exclusive bundle of Mas+ By Messi merchandise as well as a year’s supply of Más+ by Messi.  

Plus, one grand prize winner will experience the ultimate Messi fan dream: a trip for two to Miami, including flights, accommodation, and tickets to witness a home ground match with Messi’s team, Inter Miami CF*   

Leo Messi, who surprised fans 10 years ago by ​​helicoptering into Hackney Marshes, said:  “Both in football and in any challenge, the motivation to achieve the goal is what drives everyone, so I hope the hunt brings excitement to those who are always striving for their own moments of success, now powered by Más+. Good luck to everyone searching, and I hope to see the winner in the stands in Miami soon.”  

Ten SPAR stores across the UK will have 100 free bottles for shoppers on a first come first served basis. One out of those 100 will have a winning gold cap.  

As the world’s most awarded football champion, Leo Messi uniquely understands how hydration helps us achieve our goals, and he was directly involved in introducing Más+.

He wanted a drink he could proudly share with his friends, family, and teammates on Inter Miami CF, because Leo believes everyone deserves to feel like a champion in every part of life.   

Jeremy Kanter, Global Chief Marketing Officer for Más+ by Messi, shared:  “We knew we had to launch Más+ by Messi in the UK with big energy. We wanted to bring people together through their shared love of the beautiful game and encourage positive hydration with Más+ by Messi.”  

Más+ by Messi has an electrolyte complex, vitamins, minerals and comes in four amazing flavours, inspired by Leo’s own milestones:     

Miami Punch is named for his home and club, Inter Miami FC.   

Orange d’Or nods to his 8 Ballon D’Or wins.  

Berry Copa Crush honours the numerous trophies he has lifted.  

Limón Lime League celebrates his​​ four Champions League titles.   

Despite Más meaning ‘more’ in Spanish, Mas+ by Messi has less sugar, carbs, and calories than many sports drinks—1g of sugar and just 10 calories per 500ml bottle as well as no artificial colours or sweeteners, making it excellent for everyday performance whilst not compromising on taste.  

In addition to SPAR, fans can buy Más+ by visitinghttps://uk.masbymessi.com/.

The beverage will continue to roll out to additional UK markets through 2025.  

Varsity American Football Game 2025

A highlight of the Scottish student sporting calendar, the Varsity American football game has been played annually since 2012 and returns to Meggetland Stadium on Wednesday.

The Knights play traditional rivals the University of Edinburgh Mavericks, as both teams fight it out for the most spectacular trophy in UK American Football.

This year’s game is held on a mid-week evening under the floodlights at Meggetland Stadium, Wednesday 19th March, with a 7pm Kickoff.

With all the usual on and off-field family friendly entertainment including live music and the Canalside Bar will be open throughout with hot food available. 

Last years game produced fireworks during, on and off the field, with the Edinburgh Mavericks edging the game in a 14-6 victory.

Meggetland sports complex features a seated stand for watching the action.

Join us under the lights for the city’s biggest American Football fixture of the season!

Tickets are Adults £5, Students £3, and U-16’s Free Entry and can be purchased in advance online or on the gate. Gates open from 6pm, with a 7pm kickoff.

Head Coach of the Knights, Pete Laird, explained why he was looking forward to the game: “This has been an incredible season for the Knights as we claimed the Scottish Division and advanced all the way to the UK Northern Final.

“Now we have an opportunity to finish the season with one last game, a true Cup Final, against our biggest rivals in an Edinburgh Derby match’

 ‘The mid-week Varsity game is such a fantastic event for all those who attend. A bumper crowd of all ages really seem to enjoy watching American Football under the floodlights.

“There’s so much noise, colour, and entertainment on offer, and the players all rise to the occasion to put on a great performance. It’s sure to be another fantastic evening, and with free entry for kids I’m sure the stadium will be jumping again!”

Ticket Link:  Napier Knights Varsity Match