Rugby League

Rugby-League.com


Qualifications: MB ChB (2013, Manchester); Intercalated BSc Sport and Exercise Science (2012, Loughborough); MSc Sports and Exercise Medicine (2020, Leeds). IMMOFP and ATMiF (faculty).

Club(s):  Initially Salford Red Devils, and now Hull KR, England and Great Britain Rugby League.

How did you get involved?

I had an interest in sports medicine throughout university, choosing to study Sport and Exercise Science as an intercalated degree. I sought a variety of clinical placements with sports teams during my Medical degree. On graduating I explored local opportunities, which led me to Salford Red Devils, where I was supervised by Dr David Baxter before taking on independent clinical responsibilities.

Highlight of being involved in Rugby League?

Having the privilege of being joining the support staff for Kevin Sinfields ‘Extra Mile’ Challenge for Motor Neuron Disease. Professionally this was the most rewarding Multi Disciplinary Team I have been part of. But more importantly, it shows how sport and those working within it can have such a far reaching positive impact.

How does your work in Rugby League help with your career? 

Working within high pressure environments.

What would be your advice to anyone looking to get involved in Rugby League or sports medicine? 

Gain experience working with an experienced clinician if you're less familiar leading emergency care and managing ethical dilemmas. The role can be isolated and you can be faced with emergency situations with little resource. Remember to consider the holistic care of players, the job is professional sport, but their physical and psychological wellbeing can influence and be influenced by other areas of their lives.