RGU launches new institution honouring Denis Law

The Denis Law Institution for Sport and Wellbeing (DLISW) will create a lasting home for one of Aberdeen’s favourite sons, and will provide a platform for improving health, wellbeing and opportunity through sport and physical activity.

 Based in Robert Gordon University (RGU), the DLISW will honour Denis Law’s lifelong belief in using the power of sport, education and community to transform lives, whilst supporting RGU’s ambition to create positive and measurable social impact across the region.

Within the institute, RGU Sport will continue to offer first-class gym facilities and classes to RGU staff, students, and members of the wider community. RGU Sport also offers free gym memberships to all RGU students.

The Denis Law Legacy Trust (DLLT) will continue to use the institute as its base, continuing to deliver programmes in partnership with the university.

Three of Denis's children, Gary, Rob and Di, attended the opening of the institute. "We are delighted to see the opening of the Denis Law Institute of Sport and Wellbeing," they said.

“The Institute reflects Mum and Dad's lifelong belief that sport, education and community can transform lives, and we are honoured that their legacy will continue to inspire students and young people for generations to come."

The institute will provide an increased focus on research and innovation, using academic expertise to inform policy and practice, ensuring that investment in sport and physical activity benefits individuals and communities for years to come.

Ian Lowe, Head of Sport at RGU said: “The opening of the Denis Law Institute of Sport and Wellbeing is a landmark moment for RGU Sport and for the wider university community.

“Denis Law's legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the football pitch.

“It is rooted in his belief in the power of sport to bring people together, create opportunities and improve lives.

“The Institute will help us inspire future generations, support wellbeing through physical activity, and strengthen the positive impact sport can have across our communities."

RGU Sport and the Denis Law Legacy Trust (DLLT) will continue to work in conjunction to create opportunities for RGU students to gain valuable work-integrated learning experiences with DLLT, while also contributing to projects that deliver social value.

Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer of DLLT said: "The opening of the Denis Law Institute of Sport and Wellbeing marks a significant milestone in our longstanding partnership with RGU.

“By helping showcase education, sport, health and community impact, the Institute reflects values that were at the heart of Denis's life and continue to guide the Trusts work today.

“We are incredibly grateful to Principal Steve Olivier for his vision and commitment in helping make this a reality.

“Together, we are creating a lasting legacy that will inspire, develop and support future generations across the North East and beyond."

Joseph MacDonald, Student President of Sport and Physical Activity, said: "The institute will be a great addition to student life at RGU. Having a fantastic facility like this gives students huge opportunities to get involved in sport or physical activity, but also provides a vital space for students to take a break from their studies and focus on their wellbeing.

"The institute will also bring students together as part of clubs or societies, creating more opportunities for everyone to get involved, regardless of ability.

"Denis Law remains one of Aberdeen's greatest ever sportspersons, and this facility named in his honour will show how sport can have such a huge impact on our students and the wider community."