Matthew’s story: From studying a BSc in Sport Science to obtaining a doctorate in Strength and Conditioning
Find out more about Matthew, who studied BSc Sports Science: Strength and Conditioning, MSc Strength and Conditioning, and PhD Strength and Conditioning with us. He now works as the Women’s Pathway Lead Physical Performance Coach, supporting the Women's U23s on-camp delivery to help bridge the gap between our pathway teams (U19s and below) and the Seniors. In addition, he oversees the consultant physical performance coaches who deliver on camp for our pathway age groups (U15-U19s).
What courses have you studied at Salford?
I studied a BSc in Sports Science then pursued with an MSc in Strength and Conditioning, and also completed a PhD in Strength and Conditioning.
What did you enjoy most about studying at University of Salford?
The opportunities to support both academic staff and other students working at a higher level than yourself, whether in coaching teams or in their research, provided valuable experience and upskilling in areas beyond the set coursework.
What is your current role and what does it entail?
On-camp delivery includes supporting the players off-pitch from a gym and recovery perspective, liaising with the technical coaching staff to plan and deliver on-pitch drills, monitor training load through GPS and wellness systems, on occasion physically profiling players to understand areas of development and strengths from a talent ID perspective, supporting the medical departments and delivery of nutrition strategies. In addition, I work on a number of projects that support the strategic direction of the whole organisation through the development of our physical performance and nutrition department strategy.
How did the course help you to progress into your current role?
The progression through the undergraduate degree and masters allowed plenty of time and opportunities to apply the theory learnt in lectures and practical’s into practice and delivery to athletes, it increased my appreciation of how research can influence our practice and that we constantly need to look to evolve our knowledge to best support the athletes or populations that we end up working with. The masters in particular upgraded my skillset in appropriate data collection, detailed analyses of that data and how to then close the loop and apply subsequent actions to make any changes to my practice with athletes.
What was it that made you want to pursue this particular career pathway?
After receiving strength and conditioning support during college as part of the sports programme I was a part of, I really enjoyed the experience and looked to pursue it as a career.
What are your plans for the future?
I am currently looking to continue developing my skills in data analytics to support my knowledge and development in what is a particularly growing area within sports performance.
What would you say to someone thinking about studying this course at the University of Salford?
The knowledge and approach by the lecturers involved in the Strength and Conditioning masters is second to none in this country, they are all world leading in their own rights for their particular research areas, and all have really applied experiences that mean they always relate the research and academics to the problems that you may come across or want to solve within the sports or health contexts that you work in.
Do you have any tips for someone looking to pursue a similar career to yourself?
Gain as much experience as possible and grab as many opportunities as you can even if its assisting with small and seemingly menial tasks, the relationships that you build and impressions you make will open more opportunities up for you.