The University of Strathclyde and Uddingston Hockey Club have confirmed a partnership which, they claim, will “redefine what it means to be a student-athlete”.
Platinum and Gold Plus Level Scholarships, offering up to 40 per cent tuition fee coverage, are offered.
These scholarships are said to be a full-scale commitment to developing world-class hockey players and also aim to retain top players in Scotland.
In addition to tuition support, scholars will benefit from elite, year-round access to strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, sport psychology, and performance lifestyle support.
They are open to both undergraduate and post-graduate students across all academic disciplines at the University of Strathclyde.
A spokesman said: “This partnership is focused on attracting ambitious hockey players with the drive to compete at the highest levels of the sport while earning a world-class degree.
“Scholars will play for the university in British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competitions and train and compete at the premiership level in Scotland with Uddingston Hockey Club.
“This collaboration unlocks extensive career pathways for students and athletes. Scholars will have access to internships, placements, and degree apprenticeships with leading organisations in fields such as engineering, architecture and business.
Allan McGill, president of Uddingston Hockey Club, said: “For many years, we have seen talented players leave Scotland for academic and career opportunities elsewhere, which has impacted the quality of hockey in the region.
“This partnership is our answer to reversing that trend, offering unrivalled academic and athletic benefits to attract and retain top players here in Scotland.
“The added benefit of international talent coming to our country will only serve to further elevate the game.”
Dave Sykes, head of sports development at The University of Strathclyde, added: “Our partnership marks an exciting evolution in our hockey scholarship programme.
“Uddingston are a forward-thinking and ambitious club and this innovative collaboration enables us to provide unmatched academic and sporting opportunities to our student-athletes.”
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