Embracing opportunities: My Journey Through Sport Science and Applied Professional Development

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By Isabel Wallwork – MSci Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Student 

As I approach the end of my time at university, I’ve been reflecting on the experiences, opportunities, and challenges that have shaped my journey. Studying Sport Science alongside applied professional practice has been both rewarding and demanding. Balancing the commitments of being a student-athlete with placement and academic responsibilities has tested my resilience, but the Applied Professional Practice (APP) program has been instrumental in opening doors to future opportunities. I’m incredibly grateful for the guidance and mentorship I’ve received from practitioners and academics throughout my placements. Their support has provided me with clarity and confidence as I prepare to begin my career in Sport Science. 

My journey in applied sport science began in my first year with a Strength and Conditioning (S&C) internship. S&C was an area I had a particular interest in, so I embraced the chance to apply theoretical knowledge in a high-performance environment. Working hands-on with athletes allowed me to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application. This experience not only deepened my understanding of athlete development but also gave me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a professional setting. 

In my third year, I took on the role of Sport Scientist for the Men’s Hockey Performance Squad. This field-based position introduced me to new challenges and broadened my perspective on performance support. I monitored athlete well-being, performance, and player availability, contributing valuable input to multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussions. Additionally, I delivered the squad’s conditioning program, conducted fitness testing, and provided guidance to athletes. This placement was pivotal in developing my skillset, particularly my ability to collaborate within an MDT alongside practitioners from various fields. 

Now, in my fourth and final year on the MSci programme, this year has been particularly transformative. I tailored my module selections to align with my placement and career aspirations, which allowed me to deepen my expertise while pursuing external opportunities to further my development. I stepped into the role of Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Lacrosse Performance Squad, a role that involves supporting the athletes in the gym and on the field to maximise their potential. Taking on independent decision-making responsibilities and overseeing the team’s progress has been an invaluable experience. 

Beyond my work with Lacrosse, I’ve expanded my scope by mentoring less experienced S&C students, contributing to the Scholar’s Program, and collaborating with the Athletics Endurance Team. These additional roles have further equipped me for a future in performance settings, where versatility and the ability to work with multiple sports are essential. 

Looking back on the past four years, I can attribute my growth to several key factors:  

  • Meeting and learning from experienced industry professionals 
  • Applying theoretical knowledge to real-world practice 
  • Throwing myself in at the deep end at every possible chance 

These experiences have solidified my passion for S&C and performance support. As I work toward achieving my UKSCA accreditation, I’m excited to see where this next chapter will take me.  

For incoming students, my advice is simple: be proactive. Seek out internships, projects, and opportunities that align with your goals. Taking initiative will not only build your practical skills but also help you stand out in the field. 

L.Anderson.4@bham.ac.uk

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