Â鶹Íø

Can you describe your current role and how you got there after graduating?

I am currently a lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science at Â鶹Íø, alongside being a post-doctoral researcher for World Rugby. I am also currently working clinically as a Physiotherapist and am the lead medic for Rygbi Gogledd Cymru Women’s and Girls and Welsh Rugby Union Under 18s teams. After graduating, I had been rejected by multiple universities to study Physiotherapy, however an opportunity arose to undertake a Welsh Medium PhD under the scholarship of the Coleg Cymraeg; this was a Rugby Research project, and having been embedded within the team at RGC over the course of my undergraduate degree as a volunteer Sport Massage Therapist, the application was successful. Following my PhD, I still wanted to be a Physiotherapist and utilise my research to its full capacity – therefore, I went on to study at Wrexham University whilst working as a lecturer here at Â鶹Íø. Typically, post graduation, it is highly unlikely to gain a role in Sport as a physiotherapist straight away, however, my background of research in sport and experiences I gained at Â鶹Íø proved invaluable in securing myself a role with the Welsh Rugby Union as a Physiotherapist.  

How did your degree contribute to your career development?

My degree played a huge role in shaping my career, not just in terms of academic knowledge but also through the practical experiences and networking opportunities it provided. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I was heavily involved in applied settings, working with Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC) as a volunteer Sport Massage Therapist. This hands-on experience gave me invaluable insights into the demands of working in elite sport and helped me build relationships that later became crucial for my career progression. Additionally, my PhD research in Rugby Science allowed me to develop a deep understanding of injury prevention, rehabilitation, and athlete performance—knowledge that has been essential in my work as a Physiotherapist and researcher.

What was the biggest challenge you faced when starting your career, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge I faced was initially being rejected by multiple universities to study Physiotherapy. It was a tough setback, but rather than seeing it as the end of the road, I took an alternative route—undertaking a Welsh Medium PhD through the Coleg Cymraeg. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I made, as it allowed me to gain research expertise while staying embedded in a high-performance rugby environment. Even after my PhD, I still had the challenge of qualifying as a Physiotherapist, which I tackled by studying at Wrexham University while working as a lecturer at Â鶹Íø. Overcoming these obstacles took perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to take on new opportunities outside the traditional path. Every rejection is a redirection.

Are there any specific skills from your course that you use regularly in your job?

Typically, when asked this question, we think of knowledge and expertise gained by studying; however, the most invaluable skills I have gained over my years of study at Â鶹Íø have been critical thinking and problem-solving, which are essential in both my research and clinical roles. The ability to assess and interpret data, whether it’s from injury reports or performance metrics, helps me make informed decisions about athlete care and rehabilitation strategies. Communication is another key skill—whether it’s explaining complex injury concepts to athletes and coaches, lecturing students, or collaborating with colleagues in interdisciplinary teams. Additionally, the hands-on practical experiences during my studies gave me a solid foundation in working with athletes, managing injuries, and applying evidence-based practice in a real-world setting.

How important has networking been in your career progression?

Simply put, without the networking opportunities I have had, I would not be where I am today. My initial volunteer work with RGC opened doors that eventually led to my PhD, and from there, each opportunity has built upon the last. Establishing connections within the rugby and sports science community has helped me gain roles with the Welsh Rugby Union and World Rugby, as well as in academia. Beyond just meeting people, maintaining relationships and proving your value in those environments is what really helps move your career forward. The sports industry is small, and having a strong reputation and network can be the difference between securing an opportunity or missing out.

What advice would you give to recent graduates entering the job market?

Be proactive and take every opportunity that comes your way—whether that’s volunteering, internships, or placements. The reality is that breaking into elite sport can be competitive, and having hands-on experience will set you apart from others. Whilst recognising that volunteering might not seem ideal, if you commit yourself enough, it will pay off in the end. Also, don’t be afraid to take an unconventional route; sometimes, the best opportunities come from being open to alternative pathways. Keep learning, stay adaptable, and build relationships within the industry—those connections will be invaluable in the long run.

Are there any professional qualifications or certifications you’d recommend pursuing?

If you’re looking to work in sport as a Physiotherapist, gaining HCPC and CSP registration is essential. For those in sport science, BASES accreditation is highly regarded. Additional certifications such as sports massage, taping and strapping, or emergency trauma management (e.g., RFU or WRU Immediate Care in Sport) are incredibly valuable in pitch-side roles. If research interests you, developing skills in data analysis, biomechanics, or strength and conditioning can open doors to interdisciplinary opportunities.

Where do you see the biggest career opportunities in the field of sport and exercise right now?

There’s a growing demand for expertise in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimization, particularly in women’s health, especially with advancements in sports technology and data analytics. Athlete monitoring, GPS tracking, and return-to-play protocols are becoming more sophisticated, creating opportunities for those with strong analytical and applied skills. Women's sports is also expanding rapidly, which means more roles in strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, and performance analysis. Additionally, integrating sports science into broader health settings—such as exercise prescription for clinical populations—offers exciting career paths beyond traditional elite sport.