Robyn McAlpine has earned Heriot‑Watt University’s Scholar of the Month recognition following a strong period of progress and performance on the international squash stage. Across the 2025–26 season, she has continued to demonstrate the qualities of a high‑level athlete, resilience, discipline, and a growing tactical maturity, while balancing the demands of elite sport and academic study.
A standout highlight from the past month saw Robyn represent her team at the European Team Championships, where she played a pivotal role in securing a fourth‑place finish. Delivering two crucial victories to help guide the team into the semi‑finals, her performances reflected both composure under pressure and an ability to rise to key moments. While narrowly missing out on a medal, the experience underscored the team’s collective progress and sets a strong foundation for future success.
Alongside her competitive achievements, Robyn has demonstrated an impressive ability to manage the challenges of a dual career. Balancing a demanding training schedule with academic commitments and work responsibilities is no small undertaking, yet she has approached this period with clarity and focus. Her ability to maintain high performance across all areas speaks to her organisation, resilience, and commitment to continual improvement — qualities that are central to her development both on and off the court.
Looking ahead, Robyn is setting her sights on the next phase of her squash career. Having already built momentum through a series of satellite event victories, she is now targeting a step up to the Challenger Tour. With confidence growing and standards continuing to rise, her ambition is clear: to compete at a higher level and secure a Challenger title before the end of the year.
Robyn McAlpine - Squash Scholar
We caught up with Robyn to hear how her season is shaping up both on the court and in the classroom. Balancing elite sport with academic study is no small feat, but her determination and focus continue to drive her forward.
What are you most proud of this month, and why?
This month I’m most proud of finish 4th at the European Team Championships. I secured the team two big wins to get into the semi-finals which is something I’m proud of doing. Although we never got the medal, we worked well as a team and showed what we can do next year.
What’s one challenge you’ve overcome recently and how? (sporting/academic, dual career, balancing priorities, support systems)
One challenge I overcame was balancing everything on my plate around this time of year. I felt that this year I managed that balance really well between my training load, academic studies, and work commitments. I take on a lot of responsibilities, and I think I handled them effectively while still being the best version of myself. This allowed me to perform well across all areas of my life.
What’s one academic or sporting goal you’re working towards this year?
One goal I’m working towards this year is making the step up to the Challenger Tour. This season I’ve won several satellite events, which has given me confidence that I’m ready to make that next push in my career. By the end of the year, I hope to have won a Challenger event. My focus is continuing to improve my squash every day so I can become the best player I can be.
Robyn's story is a great example of what it means to be a Heriot-Watt Sports Scholar—balancing ambition, resilience, and a commitment to both sport and study. We’re proud to support athletes like Robyn as they chase their goals and inspire others along the way.
Stay tuned for next month’s feature as we continue to spotlight the incredible talent across our scholar community.