UWTSD Academy of Sport Gives Students Real-World Industry Experience
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Academy of Sport has once again provided undergraduate students with invaluable hands-on experience through its Student Support Staff programme, helping prepare the next generation of sports professionals for successful careers.
The programme enables students studying across a range of sport-related degree programmes, including Sports Coaching, Sport & Exercise Therapy, Sport & Exercise Science, and Physical Education, to work directly with UWTSD student athletes and sports teams throughout the academic year.
Student support staff undertake a variety of specialist roles, including sports analysis, coaching, sports therapy, and strength and conditioning. Working alongside UWTSD’s rugby, football and netball teams, as well as individual athletes, students gain practical experience in real sporting environments while making a significant contribution to the success and wellbeing of the University’s athletes.
The importance of the programme was recognised at the annual UWTSD Academy of Sport Awards, where Cynyr Llywelyn-Jones received the Outstanding Contribution Award. A Level 5 Sport and Exercise Therapy student, Cynyr worked closely with the University’s rugby team, providing essential matchday medical cover and delivering treatment to players through the University’s student-led clinics.
Many other students also made valuable contributions throughout the year. Iestyn Wood, Naomi Eynon, Finley Jones, Sam Holland, Sophie France, and Lauren Evans, all studying Sport & Exercise Therapy, supported the Academy by providing medical cover for teams and athletes.
Meanwhile, Stephen Tonkiss, a Sport & Exercise Science student, delivered strength and conditioning support for the netball programme, while Sports Coaching & Performance students Owain Lewis and Rhys Morris provided sports performance analysis to help enhance team preparation and performance.
Lee Tregoning, Head of Sport & Active Life at UWTSD, praised the commitment and professionalism of the student support staff.
“ The contribution these students make cannot be underplayed as well as getting real life experience themselves they provide a vital service for the Academy of Sport’s student athletes. The experience prepares them for the industry they want to start a career in and helps them to graduate with industry experience and be work ready.”
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476