UWS hails bold new chapter in the relationship between sport and academia

St Mirren Football Club and the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) have kicked off a partnership that hopes to change the relationship between sport and education in Scotland.

In a bold move set to drive innovation both on the pitch and in the classroom, the two historic Paisley institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see students stepping into the heart of a professional football club and gaining unparalleled industry experience.

The MoU underscores the mutual intent of St Mirren FC and UWS to work closely together to achieve two primary goals: to enrich the learning and research opportunities available to UWS students and staff, and to support St Mirren improve standards across all facets of the club.

Keith Lasley, St Mirren Football Club's Chief Operating Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:

"This agreement with UWS is a key milestone for St Mirren as we continue to build on our ambitions both on and off the field.
Keith Lasley, St Mirren Football Club's Chief Operating Officer

“The opportunity to collaborate with one of Scotland’s leading universities will not only enhance our football operations but also contribute to the broader development of the club. We look forward to working closely with UWS to deliver tangible benefits for our players, staff, and supporters.

“This partnership helps strengthen our ongoing commitment to our club strategy and aligns with our Paisley, People and Performance pillars.”

Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS, Professor James Miller said: “Both St Mirren and UWS are passionate and proud of Paisley and the partnership represents a bold new chapter in the relationship between sport and academia, one that promises to deliver substantial benefits for all involved.

"By enhancing learning experiences we can offer our students direct access to a professional sports environment and equip them with invaluable skills and knowledge that will prepare them for successful careers.

“This collaboration embodies our commitment to delivering opportunities that complement our academic programmes and contributes to the professional development of our students."
Professor James Miller, UWS Principal and Vice-Chancellor

For St Mirren, the partnership with UWS is a vital component of its strategy to drive excellence and innovation across all departments. By integrating the academic expertise and resources of UWS, the club aims to enhance the quality of its football operations and business infrastructure. This collaboration is expected to deliver substantial benefits, including the introduction of new coaching techniques and the application of cutting-edge sports science.

For UWS, the MoU represents a significant opportunity to expand the scope of student and staff engagement with industry. By aligning with a professional football club of St Mirren's calibre, UWS can offer unique, real-world learning experiences that will prepare its students for careers in sport and beyond. Dr Mark Carroll, Lecturer in Sport at UWS, expressed his delight in the partnership:

"This collaboration with St Mirren is a fantastic opportunity for our students and staff to engage with the professional sporting world in a meaningful way."
Dr Mark Carroll, Lecturer in Sport at UWS