From Track to Pitch: Lincoln College Takes Silver at AoC Champs

Students from Lincoln College delivered an exceptional performance at the AoC Sport National Championships 2026, held in Nottingham from 17th–19th April. Lincoln College competed against institutions from across the country.

As the largest annual further education sporting competition in Europe, the event brings together more than 1,300 college students across 13 disciplines.

Lincoln College, represented in both endurance running and Pan Ability football, fielded a team of 15 talented students – three runners and twelve footballers. Their combined efforts resulted in two silver medals overall.

Mark Locking, Principal and CEO at Lincoln College, said: “Congratulations to all students who took part this year. Each performance reflects countless hours of training, perseverance through challenges, and a shared pride in representing their college and region on a national stage.”

Three first-year students were selected to be endurance runners representing the East Midlands squad, a remarkable achievement. Day one featured a mixed relay, with each athlete tackling a 1km leg, followed by a 5km individual race on day two.

Among the standout performances was Emma Reid, a Level 3 Sport Science & Physiotherapy student, who completed the 5km race in just over 20 minutes, securing an impressive 8th-place finish. Her contribution, alongside her team-mates – including fellow Lincoln College student Holly Stanton – helped the East Midlands girls’ team claim an outstanding second place overall, earning silver medals. Meanwhile, Noah Thomas, studying Level 3 Sports Coaching, Development and Physical Education, represented the boys’ team with distinction. Finishing the course in just over 19 minutes, he narrowly missed out on the podium but delivered a performance that reflected both talent and determination.

The Lincoln College Pan Ability football team returned for their second consecutive year representing the East Midlands. After finishing as runners-up the previous year, they arrived determined to go one step further. Their campaign was nothing short of impressive: seven matches played, five victories, one draw and just one defeat. Scoring 19 goals and conceding only four, the team demonstrated not only attacking flair but also defensive strength and unity.

Strive to achieve more at Lincoln College, apply now to study Sport this September.