Former Dollar Academy pupil Kyle Adams has received a Glasgow University bursary to support his ambitions to kick his way to the top.

Kickboxer Kyle is one of 36 elite athletes at the university to receive the funding, which was made available through donations from former students.

Athletes were selected for bursaries based on sporting merit alone, with all competing at at-least age group international level.

Business Management student Kyle, who won gold at the Unified World Kickboxing Championships last year, said: “While I am very ambitious and want to go as far as I can in kickboxing, I also want to make sure I have something to fall back on and that’s why I am working hard towards my degree.

“To be surrounded by so many other athletes at the university shows how hard they work and it is a constant reminder of what it takes to be elite. I am honoured to be considered among that group by University of Glasgow Sport. “ The university’s service development teacher Calum Hill, who leads the elite athlete programme, said it was “an honour” to support the beneficiaries.

And he believes each of them deserves credit for their ability to balance their academic workload with their pursuit of sporting excellence.

He explained: “We are privileged to have so many elite athletes attend our university.

“Juggling intensive studies with professional level training and competition is extremely difficult and requires a great deal of strong decision-making.

“We are honoured to support them in their drive to further their career and compete on an international stage.

“Every one of these 36 athletes is an inspiration to the rest of our students and they will continue to be a great source of pride for the rest of the year and beyond.”