Can you tell us about your Sport and Exercise science Journey?  

I have always had a very strong passion for elite sport and performance and professional football was always my chosen destination. Understanding how the human body operates is essential in my line of work and this led me to study BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science. 

My first role after graduating was Head of Sport Science at Oldham Athletic FC. This soon progressed into First Team coaching, as I qualified with my UEFA Coaching Licenses. This role allowed me to lead and make decisions from an early stage in my career.  It made me a better coach and prepared me for subsequent First Team coaching roles. 

My current role is Assistant Head Coach at a club in the top league in Holland. My responsibilities are to coach the team and tactically prepare them for matches. This involves working closely with the Head Coach and other coaches, medics, sports scientists and performance analysts. 

My plans are to continue my path as a Senior Coach in professional football. Later on, I aim to be a Head Coach and lead from the very top. 

From the skills gained during your time at Manchester Met, which have you used most in your career so far? 

Without a doubt, the most valuable skills from my time at University have come from presenting to a group. I regularly lead team meetings with the players using various media like PowerPoint, keynote animations and video clips. This is something that was asked of us at all stages of the programme at Manchester Met. 

Furthermore, the ability to critically appraise material is important. Quickly deciding which information is meaningful is vital for working efficiently. 

Outside of the course teaching, what other opportunities did you get involved in during your time at Manchester Met?

I engaged in Premier League work experience placements at Manchester City FC and Middlesbrough FC before travelling to Australia to work at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra. I then returned and engaged in a season-long internship in the Premier League with Fulham FC under Roy Hodgson. 

What are your greatest achievements so far? 

I would start by saying that my attitude is that I haven’t really achieved anything in my career yet and hope that any real success lies ahead of me! Although I have completed over 600 games as a Professional Coach. Signing as a First Team Coach two weeks before my graduation and joining Leeds United as Assistant Head Coach at 31 years of age have been good moments. 

What advice would you give to students who aspire to a career in Sport and Exercise Science? 

Work hard and work well! They are not the same thing. Many work hard, but only a few work well. Network and meet decision makers in your chosen field. Who you know will yield opportunity, what you know will allow you to flourish!

Why do you feel it is important to have a diverse Sport and Exercise Science industry? 

Diversity in any industry is important. Diversity is essential in Sport and Exercise Science because there is diversity in sport. Sport and Exercise Science should reflect the world of sport and empathy and understanding in delivery are vital facets of the discipline. 

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