McGregor was impressive for Great Britain in Beijing

Goalkeeper Alistair McGregor has been named by Great Britain Hockey as its Athlete of the Year for 2008.

The 27-year-old from Aberdeen was in great form at the Beijing Olympics, helping Great Britain to their best finish since winning gold in 1988.

Only Germany, Spain and the Netherlands conceded fewer goals in the pool stage.

"It's a great privilege but I certainly don't play for individual rewards," said McGregor. "This is a credit to the entire team."

The Athlete of the Year award was established in 2006 after the British Olympic Association gifted a trophy to each of the 35 Olympic sports' governing bodies to mark the centenary of the BOA and to celebrate the awarding of the 2012 Olympic Games to London.

Crista Cullen was the first recipient, with Kate Walsh the 2007 winner.

"I think the fact that I'm the first male recipient just goes to show how well the guys performed in Beijing and is testament to the success we achieved in finishing fifth," added McGregor.

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