BILLY BREMNER MEMORIAL JOIN OUR CAMPAIGN
Date: 11th April 2025
This is the second of our runners-up from the competition sponsored by News UK, inviting students studying any sports-related subject at a Scottish university or college to submit an article on any subject to do with Scottish football. The judges really liked this piece because of its evidence passion for the game in our country and also because the author, a first-year student at Edinburgh University, is not writing in his native language. In fact, we understand that English is only one of four languages that he speaks!
Football has always been an integral part of my life. Coming from Armenia, where football is deeply embedded in our culture, I have always been passionate about both playing and watching the sport. Upon arriving in Edinburgh as an international student, one of my first objectives was to explore the football scene in Scotland. This essay will outline my experience of consuming different types of football in Scotland and the challenges I faced along the way.
The first step in my football journey was finding a way to continue playing the sport I love. Along with a group of friends, we decided to join a five-a-side league. To my surprise, the process was incredibly easy and accessible—our inquiry was met with a swift response, and we were able to register and start playing almost immediately. This accessibility made the transition seamless and fuelled my desire to play even more.
Beyond playing, I was eager to immerse myself in Scotland’s football-watching culture. My friends suggested we go to a pub to watch a match, and I was blown away by the atmosphere. The energy in the pub was electric, with fans passionately cheering, chanting, and celebrating every moment. The highlight of the night was when Heart of Midlothian scored a goal—the entire pub erupted in applause and excitement as the team secured a victory. It was an incredible experience that showcased the deep-rooted passion for football in Scotland. Determined to witness a live match, I decided to attend a Spartans U21 game, as a friend of mine plays for the team. I was genuinely impressed by the high level of football on display and was pleasantly surprised that the match was free to attend. The opportunity to watch quality football at no cost was something I had not expected, making it an even more enjoyable experience.
Additionally, I traveled to Glasgow to watch a professional match at Celtic Park. The game itself was thrilling, but what stood out most was the stadium’s atmosphere. The fans’ chants, the sea of green and white, and the sheer energy inside the stadium made for an unforgettable experience. The passion and loyalty of Scottish football supporters were truly remarkable, reinforcing why Scotland is such a fantastic place for football enthusiasts.
In conclusion, my experience as a football fan in Scotland has been nothing short of incredible. The accessibility of playing opportunities, the electrifying pub culture, and the unforgettable stadium experiences have all contributed to my deep appreciation of Scottish football. The country’s football culture is vibrant, inclusive, and thrilling, making it an absolute joy to be a fan here. As an international student, I feel privileged to be part of this football-loving nation, and I look forward to exploring even more of what Scottish football has to offer.
Julien Sabran, University of Edinburgh
Posted in: Latest News
Tags: Student Competition