Sports Awards Evening Celebrates Excellence

On Tuesday 30 June, Alleyn’s marked its annual Sports Awards Evening, celebrating a year of outstanding pupil achievement. The event welcomed back British sailor and alumna Daisy Collingridge (Brown’s 2018) as guest speaker, whose journey from school sport to the international stage provided inspiration for all. 

A two-time national champion and World Cup medallist, Daisy has been part of the British Sailing Team since her time at Alleyn’s. Now campaigning full-time, she has her sights set on Olympic success. Speaking to pupils, she reflected on her progression through the sport, including competing at World and European Championships and World Cup events in the ILCA 6 Olympic dinghy — a discipline she described as both physically demanding and mentally intense. 

Daisy spoke candidly about the challenges she faced early in her career and the resilience needed to succeed, recalling a breakthrough moment when she secured qualification for the Youth World Championships in China. She also highlighted the importance of balancing her sporting ambitions with studying Psychology at the University of Bath, emphasising the value of education alongside elite competition. 

Crediting Alleyn’s as a key influence, Daisy reflected on embracing a wide range of sports during her time at school, which helped shape her mindset and confidence. She encouraged pupils to challenge themselves, concluding with the advice: 

“Don’t be afraid of the harder route. It may not give you the quickest rewards, but it will teach you the lessons that stay with you for life.”

The evening saw over 120 awards presented, celebrating both individual and team success, and left pupils inspired for the year ahead. The awards included this year’s recipient of the prestigious Fournel Cup - standout hockey player, Isy Key (Spurgeon's 2026). The award was established in honour of David Fournel (Spurgeon’s 1957) who was one of Alleyn’s most outstanding sportsmen and is awarded each year for sporting excellence. Isy became Alleyn's 1st XI Captain and was selected for the England U21 squad earlier this year. She is a member of the Great Britain Elite Development Programme and a recipient of the Sport England Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme. Congratulations to Isy and all the evening's winners and a huge thank you to Daisy, for inspiring our students.

We’re looking forward to hosting a special fundraiser at Alleyn’s Regent’s Park on 17 September in support of Daisy’s LA 2028 Olympic campaign. Open to all, the evening will include the chance to meet Daisy and hear more about her journey, alongside a live auction featuring exciting prizes such as a stay in Champéry, Switzerland, PGA coaching sessions at 14 Clubs in London, and a racing experience at the 2027 East Coast Classics Regatta. Register via email to attend.