The college hosted the inaugural #BeAwesome Cup, a women’s football festival designed to empower through sport and spark vital conversations around wellbeing.
The festival, held during Mental Health Awareness Week, attracted teams from across Scotland and featured appearances from football icons, including Rose Reilly, Andy McLaren, and Scotland international Jane Ross.
Jennifer Anderson, assistant principal of skills and innovation at Ayrshire College, said: “This event highlights what’s possible when education, sport, and community come together with a shared purpose.
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“We are proud to be leading the way in creating environments where young people can thrive, not just academically, but emotionally and socially too.
“The impact of initiatives like this extends far beyond the pitch.”
The tournament included teams from Dumfries and Galloway College, New College Lanarkshire, West College Scotland, and two sides from Ayrshire College.
All matches were officiated by female referees.
Football pioneer Rose Reilly praised the initiative, describing it as a model for others to follow, saying: “This is exactly the kind of event we need to see more of, bringing young women together, building confidence and opening up conversations around mental health. The energy, the positivity and the support on display here have been incredible.”
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The day also featured the unveiling of permanent banners promoting mental health organisations, including Andy’s Man Club, Beautiful Inside and Out, Megan’s Space, and The Kris Boyd Charity.
Kris Boyd, founder of The Kris Boyd Charity, said: “Football has an extraordinary ability to unite people.
“When you combine that with clear mental health support messages, it becomes a powerful tool for change.”
Ayrshire College player Darcie Hamilton reflected on the emotional impact of the event.
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She said: “Seeing families in the crowd who have been affected by suicide really put into perspective why days like this matter.”
New College Lanarkshire won the #BeAwesome Cup, with Ayrshire College finishing as runners-up.