Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Live Breathe Think Sport
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
“I play with a fear of letting people down. That's what motivates me.� Jonny Wilkinson
Edge Hill University
These are exciting times for Sport and Physical Activity at Edge Hill University.
£15m is being spent upgrading our external sports facilities, as part of the ongoing development of the University’s campus, and maintaining our reputation as an elite provider of sports education. Add to this a growing range of collaborative sportsrelated events, such as our annual physical education and school sports conference, our continuing work in local schools, and contributions to the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics, and you’ll begin to understand why we’re so optimistic about the future.
We want to share this future with you Our programmes are delivered by highly experienced and enthusiastic staff with a real commitment to providing a supportive learning environment aimed at helping students reach their full potential.
As a team we are dynamic, friendly and supportive of your needs. Staff-members are at the forefront of national and local developments in their specialist areas and are actively involved in research and consultancy projects of national and
international significance, evidenced within their teaching delivery.
A key feature of our degree programmes is the emphasis placed on the development of vocational skills, and we offer a range of work opportunities within each programme for students to enhance their employability and career preparation.
Sports enthusiasts of all abilities will appreciate the opportunities provided by the University’s multi-million pound sports complex. Our programmes are designed to train the sports professionals of tomorrow, emphasising inclusion, participation, support, and understanding performance. Dr Evelyn Carnegie Head of Department
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
“I like adrenaline, that's something I feed off. I'm just going to go out there and do my best.� Jessica Ennis
Edge Hill University
Why study at Edge Hill University?
Study Sport and Physical Activity
• Top three in the North West for Teaching and Academic Support (National Student Survey 2012)
We offer a wide range of undergraduate programmes, supported by our specialist Master’s programmes for those wishing to continue their studies at the next level.
• Top three in the North West for Satisfaction with Students’ Union (National Student Survey 2012) • Top in the North West for Students’ Personal Development (National Student Survey 2012)
• Top in the North West for Assessment and Feedback (National Student Survey 2012) • Shortlisted for UK's University of the Year in the Times Higher Education Awards 2011, 2010 and 2007
• Best for Teaching in the North West (Sunday Times University Guide 2012)
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BSc (Hons) Coach Education BA (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science BA (Hons) Sports Development and Management BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy MSc Football Rehabilitation MRes Coach Education MRes Physical Education and School Sport MRes Sport and Exercise MRes Sports Development MRes Sports Studies MRes Sports Therapy
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
BA (Hons)
Coach Education
Athletes at all levels now require coaches who are at the cutting edge of their discipline, intellectually and physically. This degree is founded on the integration of knowledge and practice, and prepares you to join future generations of coaches. Available pathways allow you to focus on either community coaching or high performance coaching. If you're seeking work at grass roots level, community coaching will focus on youth and community sport development, while high performance coaching looks at coaching for competitions.
Key text: Cassidy, T. Jones, R. and Potrac, P. (2008). Understanding Sports Coaching: The Social, Cultural and Pedagogical Foundations of Coaching Practice (2nd ed). New York, NY: Routledge.
Profile Alex Stokes BA (Hons) Coach Education “I’ve been involved in sports coaching since I was very young and always enjoyed seeing young athletes improve performance. “The work placement gave me an opportunity to see how sports professionals operate, and experience the kind of scenarios they face.
“I’m now an Assistant Development Officer. The best thing about the job is seeing young people achieve. I’ve witnessed local youngsters gain nationally-recognised qualifications, and helped numerous people gain experience of coaching and performance, through a range of programmes. It really is very satisfying."
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
BA (Hons)
Physical Education and School Sport
This innovative degree prepares you for a career either teaching physical education, or in school or youth sport development and delivery. You will be able to progress onto a PGCE to gain qualified teacher status, or enter other education-based professions such as after-school, youth and community coaching, youth sport teaching and development, or assistant teaching. Our experienced teaching team will encourage you to adopt innovative, inspiring and inclusive approaches to working with children in the physical education and sporting arena.
Key text: Armour, K. (2012) Sport Pedagogy: An Introduction for Teaching and Coaching, London: Prentice-Hall
Profile Sarah Smith BA (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport “I’ve gained a full insight into many aspects of sport and teaching, from writing lesson plans through to the history of sport and politics. I’ve built a strong foundation upon which to base my future career. Practical sessions allow you to learn teaching techniques, and try new sports. You can also gain coaching qualifications alongside your studies, which is a brilliant additional skill.
“This course has opened so many doors for me and last year I was able to teach children in Ghana for six weeks. It was a fantastic experience. If you come here you’ll have the best three years of your life, but always make the most of every available opportunity.”
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
BSc (Hons)
Sport and Exercise Psychology
What makes athletes tick is a question that has become increasingly important to sports coaches and managers. The challenge of how to get the best possible performance from an athlete now relies on both mental and physical preparation. In this degree, you will have the opportunity to explore how psychological science explains sport and exercise behaviours. You will look at the fundamental principles of psychology while considering what motivates athletes and sports people, how they develop an elite sport performance, and the influence of exercise on psychological wellbeing. Accredited by the British Psychological Society.
Key text: Gill, D. L. (2000). Psychological Dynamics of Sport and Exercise (3rd ed). Illinois: Human Kinetics.
Profile Brett Bienias BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology “I’m interested in the dynamics of how athletes perform, including their abilities to act, react and cope.
“I really enjoy the structure of this course. You begin by learning about all of the separate aspects involved, from biological through to developmental psychology in both children and adults. Following this, you specialise in specific areas that interest you the most, enabling you to undertake your own research.
“This course also provides an opportunity to gain a lot of hands-on experience. Early on you get to conduct your own interviews and observations, as well as collect data and complete research.”
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
BSc (Hons)
Sport and Exercise Science
If you want to explore the sciences that underpin sports performance, principally sport and exercise biomechanics, physiology and psychology, then this degree could be for you.
You will develop knowledge and understanding of how physical performance can be improved and how people can realise their sporting potential via two pathways. Applied Sports Science focuses on elite athletic performance, while Exercise and Health is based around grass roots sport and the link between exercise and health. Professional practice is a key feature of this degree, endorsed by the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES).
Key text: Kenney, W.L., Wilmore, J.H. and Costill, D.H. (2011). Physiology of Sport and Exercise (5th ed.). Illinois: Human Kinetics.
Profile Declan Sephton-Hulme BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science Rugby league fanatic Declan gained a place on the Warrington Wolves Scholarship Programme before going on to play for Widnes Vikings.
But only a few years ago Declan suffered a brain haemorrhage. On being told he may struggle to walk or talk properly again, Declan refused to give in, returning to rugby just a year later, and more determined than ever:
"I had to change my career ideas because I can forget things as a result of the haemorrhage, but I've never given up my dreams of playing rugby." Declan joined Edge Hill in 2011 where his talent and courage has been recognised through the University’s scholarship system.
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
BA (Hons)
Sports Development and Management
Sports Development and Management is a rapidly growing area which covers youth and elite sport, community and organisational development, the promotion of health and wellbeing, business and enterprise, corporate social responsibility, and how sport can contribute to positive social change.
Designed for those seeking careers in these increasingly popular fields, this degree develops the applied and theoretical knowledge needed to implement contemporary sport policy and development programmes, as well as manage people and organisations in national and international contexts. The knowledge, skills and experiences developed are also valued by employers outside the sport industry.
Key text: Houlihan, B (2008) Sport and Society (2nd ed). London: Sage
Profile Luke Davies BA (Hons) Sports Development “I love sport, and this degree combines all the things I enjoy with my existing skill set and passion for people.
“The tutors are outstanding – always happy to support you, and the range of hands-on activities gives you the vital experience employers are looking for. I’ve taken work placements on every year of the course, each one building my involvement and responsibility further within different settings and roles. “Being on this course has not only given me the experience and knowledge to pursue a career I love, but has equipped me with transferable skills that will open up other doors along the way.”
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
BSc (Hons)
Sports Therapy
Edge Hill University
This programme provides you with the practical skills and knowledge to help injured athletes return to competitive sport. The course is designed to help you understand performance through participation, giving you plenty of opportunity to observe sport on an individual and team level. This degree has a strong practical emphasis, underpinned by solid theoretical knowledge. When you graduate you will be eligible for membership of The Society of Sports Therapists, which carries professional indemnity insurance. Working with clients in our on-campus clinic is a key feature of this degree. Key text: Biel, A. (2011). Trail Guide to the Body: How to Locate Muscles, Bones and More (4th ed). USA: Books of Discovery.
Profile Evelyn Rogers BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy “When I first arrived I absolutely loved how friendly everyone was and how people were so approachable.
“During my third week I completed a first aid course before being made responsible for the Edge Hill Women’s Football Team. I was scared and nervous, but when an injury did occur, my brain went into first aid mode, and before you know it you’re treating the player! Once you’ve dealt with your first injury, you feel more comfortable and confident.
“I’m planning to work as a therapist within a football club when I graduate, and maybe continuing my physio studies, eventually opening my own private clinic.”
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
MSc
Football Rehabilitation
If you are a registered practitioner of physiotherapy, sports therapy or equivalent, looking to enhance your professional practice within football rehabilitation, become a more rounded, holistic, evidence-based practitioner, and advance the profession by engaging in practice-related research, then this programme could be for you. Delivered by staff and visiting lecturers with extensive experience in professional football.
Key text: Brukner, P. and Khan, K. (2012). Brukner & Khan's Clinical Sports Medicine. Australia: McGraw-Hill Medical.
Profile Tim Williamson MSc Football Rehabilitation “I’ve held full-time positions with Tottenham Hotspur, Leeds United, Birmingham City and Celtic FC, and have over 21 years’ experience in football. This course was the most relevant to my role as Head of Physiotherapy and Medical Services at Celtic FC.
“I’d advise anyone looking to follow this career path to get as much experience as possible. Put the hours in and be prepared to occasionally work for nothing. Don’t take the attitude that you only want to work at “big” clubs. Start at the bottom, and don’t try to learn the tricks of the trade first, learn the trade first - injuries are injuries!”
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
Research Degrees
Alongside our MSc in Football Rehabilitation we have added a range of MRes qualifications, to build on the knowledge and skills developed over the course of your first degree in sport. Our innovative student-led approach means your individual research interests are truly at the heart of studying for MRes awards. They are designed to add an extra dimension to your expertise, enhancing your career opportunities or preparing you for further study:
MRes Coach Education This programme offers you the opportunity to develop specialist, in-depth knowledge within a sporting context, in areas such as coaching pedagogy, skill acquisition, notational analysis, and coach development and learning.
MRes Physical Education and School Sport This programme offers you the opportunity to develop specialist, in-depth knowledge within the physical education and school sport context, in areas such as aspects of pedagogy, contemporary and socio-cultural issues, fundamental movement skills, and child development.
MRes Sport and Exercise This programme offers you the opportunity to develop specialist, in-depth knowledge in the subjects of biomechanics, physiology or psychology, within a sporting context.
MRes Sports Development This programme offers you the opportunity to develop specialist, in-depth knowledge within a sporting context. This might include aspects of development in and through sport, sports in developing countries, grass roots community sports, or local government sport and leisure policies. MRes Sports Studies Develop specialist, in-depth knowledge within the sporting context, in areas such as sociology of sport, safeguarding and child protection in sport, disability and sport, and the relationship between gender, sexuality and sport.
MRes Sports Therapy This programme offers you the opportunity to develop specialist, in-depth knowledge within a sporting context, in areas such as epidemiology, (p)rehabilitation of sporting injuries, and interventions to prevent injury.
Profile Chris Greenhalgh Sports Development Officer Sports Development graduate Chris Greenhalgh now works as a Sports Development Officer for Cheshire East Council in Macclesfield, collaborating with universities, colleges and schools:
“I realised early on that I wasn’t going to make it as a professional sportsman, so decided to study a subject that would allow me to enable others to take part in sport, particularly at grassroots level. I did some coaching, but always found that I preferred the organisation of events and tournaments, which is an aspect of sports development.
“I organise the annual Cheshire East Sports Awards, which recognise the local volunteers, coaches and clubs who champion sport within the borough.
“It’s extremely rewarding to recognise the volunteers who make everyone else’s experience in sport what it is, but also simple things such as a child finding a new activity enjoyable or developing a new skill offer great satisfaction too.”
Amongst several highlights of his career so far, one stands out:
“Organising a street sports festival for a local housing trust, I was told that a particular group of kids known to the police, many of whom had been suspended from school and banned from the youth club, wouldn’t take part as they wouldn’t leave their estate. In the end ten of them did, and they had a great day.” To find out what you could do with a sports qualification visit: edgehill.ac.uk/careers
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
Our impressive sports complex lies within an award-winning, landscaped campus, with all the facilities expected of a modern university.
The Hub is a new ÂŁ13.5m state-of-the-art facility, a communal space for students and staff to meet, eat, relax, and collaborate, and forms the centre of the campus.
The Students’ Union gives you a voice, promoting positive change to ensure you have the best possible experience while at university. This includes access to a variety of student clubs and societies, from puppetry to pilates, and the opportunity to enter the world of student politics.
Those looking for a creative outlet can sign up for a shift on Vibe, our online mag, or subject peers to their eclectic music collections as a broadcaster on Vibe Radio, the University’s radio station.
The newly-extended Arts Centre provides an on-campus live venue, showcasing plays, discussions, stand-up comedy, music, dance and film screenings as part of a packed schedule.
Campus Life
You will have plenty of chances to acclimatise to campus life and take advantage of all its opportunities in our extensive accommodation provision. We have over 1,700 single study bedrooms on-campus, in 40 halls of residence, giving you instant access to a community of like-minded people taking their first steps towards independence.
Careers and Employability You’ve studied hard, you’ve enjoyed some great nights out, you’ve taken advantage of many of the extra-curricular opportunities available, and now you’re graduating. What next? You’ll be looking for a reward, hopefully in the form of employment in your chosen career area and,whichever career path you follow, Edge Hill University staff will support you.
Developing employability is an important element of the University experience. We attach particular importance to raising the awareness of all students in relation to the career opportunities open to them upon graduation, and making sure that they are in a position to pursue those opportunities.
On top of our individual careers support and guidance, we put together a host of activities designed to inform your career development, from a visiting speakers programme (covering areas such as education, personal fitness, the Royal Navy, and the fire and prison services), to sports education forums, to real hands-on work experience. Senior Lecturer in PE and School Sports Adam Burrows organises the visiting speakers programme:
"The events encourage students to start preparing for the range of career options available after a sports degree. The underlying theme coming through from
speakers was the importance of work experience to complement their degree programme.
"We’re also very grateful to employers for offering opportunities for students to develop their skills through work experience and volunteering. There are also various volunteering opportunities available at the University for students, such as our IDEALS programme in Ghana."
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Facilities
Edge Hill University
"The swimming and diving were held in part of the old moat... it was the clammiest, darkest place and the water was frigid."
The words of American diver Alice Landon, reflecting on facilities at the 1920 Olympic Games, held in Antwerp. Thankfully there should be no such reservations from athletes seeking to push themselves and others to their limits, and possibly beyond, at our current 25-acre sports site, which provides high quality indoor and outdoor facilities, and is about to become even more impressive. Our new £15 million sports centre will have prospective and current sport and physical activity students relishing the prospect of learning in some of the best higher education facilities in the UK .
Following consultation with local authorities, current users, and sports governing bodies, the University’s sports facilities will feature: •
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Five natural grass pitches, for rugby league, rugby union and football An athletics arena, with an eight lane polymeric track and full field event facilities A full-sized, floodlit hockey pitch, compliant with current International Hockey Federation standards A floodlit football pitch to Football Association standards, with a 3G carpet (that’s a sand and rubber crumb infill) Three 3G 5-a-side floodlit football courts Floodlit tennis and netball courts, complete with porous bituminous surfacing and acrylic painted finish to meet both England Netball and Lawn Tennis Association standards A trim track for both recreational and serious training, with a series of exercise stations to test skills and develop muscle groups
Sports Laboratories and Clinics As you would expect, our range of sports degrees and qualifications is also supported by professional-standard laboratories and clinics, enabling you to explore the science behind the sport.
It may hold surprises for some initially, with 3G football pitches, trim tracks and sanddressed hockey pitches.
What these descriptions represent, though, is some of the latest thinking in sports and activity facility development, and will maintain Edge Hill University’s cutting edge in this area, as well as enhancing the award-winning Ormskirk Campus.
Physiology Our applied sport and exercise physiology laboratory hosts a range of scientific apparatus designed to measure physiological fitness. The equipment measures aerobic and anaerobic thresholds, cardiovascular variables, VO2max, lactate profiles and thresholds, heart rate training zones, and body composition.
Biomechanics Sport-specific fitness testing and performance analysis is carried out in the biomechanics laboratory. A range of equipment, including 2D and 3D motion capture systems, video analysis systems, electromyographs (EMGs), timing lights, force platforms and dynamometers, is used to analyse technique, and measure the electrical activity of muscles, gait mechanics, jump power, speed, acceleration, agility and strength.
Psychology The psychology laboratory is focused on understanding the fundamental principles of psychology, the scientific study of mind and behaviour, identifying and understanding the factors that govern motor performance and the learning of motor skills, and addressing sport and exercise behaviours, including elite sport performance, motivation and the influence of exercise on psychological well-being.
We use eye-tracking systems to help us understand decision-making and identify performance improvement opportunities in sport settings, and our sport scientists can also provide individualised reports and specific advice and training recommendations to improve performance.
Sports Therapy Students on our Sports Therapy degree have access to some of the best facilities in higher education. Our modern, purpose-built sports therapy clinic houses a well-equipped study area and private consultation rooms. The facilities are used for teaching, but are also open to the general public, while a consultancy service provides athletes with customised treatment and exercise regimes.
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
An IDEALS World
Edge Hill University
A group of second year Sport and Physical Activity students spent six weeks living and working in Ghana, on the West African coast, as part of the University's ongoing collaboration with the UK Sport International Development through Excellence and Leadership in Sport (IDEALS) programme.
Ghana.
Accra
IDEALS focuses on the positive impact that sport can have in disadvantaged communities in Africa, whilst developing the knowledge and abilities of participating students, says Dr Iain Lindsey, Senior Lecturer in Sports Development:
"The IDEALS programme really develops the students' skills around cultural and shared learning, leadership, facilitation and coaching, as well as improving their employability. It also gives them a greater understanding of other sport systems, both in terms of governmental involvement and delivery in the community."
Ghanaian children Irish-dancing on the side of the road, with passing cars blowing their horns in approval!"
Ghanaian children Irish-dancing on the side of the road
The trip made a lasting impression on all the students involved, as Paul concludes:
"I feel I’ve developed a wide range of skills from taking part in this project and now feel more confident and comfortable delivering a lesson. I believe a lot of the qualities I’ve learnt on this trip will help me become a PE teacher once I graduate."
All six students are now ambassadors for the project and dedicate time promoting the scheme. uksport.gov.uk/pages/ideals
Profile Jennifer Ward BA (Hons) Sports Development
Students delivered a variety of educational activities alongside Ghanaian staff and volunteers, and were invited to several cultural events. BA (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport student Paul Carey was one of our representatives on the scheme:
"The time I spent in a school in Legon was incredible. All the boys there wanted to know how to play Gaelic Football, and seeing the enjoyment they got from learning this new sport was very rewarding. By the end of my time there they were practically Irish, as on the way to a tournament I taught them an old Irish song, and how to dance to it. I’ll always remember a school bus of
"We got to know the Ghanaians by undertaking numerous team-building activities. We then helped to deliver the BILD (Beckwith International Leadership Development) programme, where children learn to think for themselves through problem-solving activities. We then spent time in schools around Accra playing games like handball, football, rounders, basketball and cricket.
"I got something from every activity I undertook during this trip, and am already using what I’ve learnt, as well as the life skills I developed and understanding how different people work. I now hope that future employers will look at my experiences and believe I’m someone who wants to make a real difference."
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
“You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them.� Michael Jordan
Edge Hill University
Research profile Dr Andy Sparks
adequately between stages. Typically, after each three-week grand tour (Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, Vuelta a España) an elite cyclist might be expected to lose the equivalent of three kg of body weight despite consuming 3-4 times the normal daily recommended energy intake. As a result there’s a lot of research on the provision of macronutrients (carbohydrate, fat and protein) before, during and after endurance exercise, but less focus on micronutrients, which may alter metabolism and provide an advantage by changing the way macronutrients are used during an event.
“Our idea is to try and use low calorie acute and inexpensive nutritional supplements and products to improve performance. In some cases these strategies may only be useful for well-trained individuals looking for a competitive edge, but there are wider implications for some of the products.
Dr Andy Sparks, Senior Lecturer in Exercise Physiology, bought his first mountain bike in 1990. Living on the edge of the New Forest, he had access to perfect terrain.
On a mountain bike holiday two years later he watched Chris Boardman win the Olympic Pursuit Gold at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and Miguel Indurain win his second consecutive Tour de France. He’s been hooked by road cycling ever since, and in 2011 completed the Tour de l’Ain, a fourday stage race in the French Alps.
But cycling also plays a major role in Andy’s academic interests:
“In some cases the way that performance is enhanced is by altering perceptions of effort, and this has been shown to be a vital aspect of improving adherence to exercise and physical activity in sedentary individuals who have recently started to be more active. A high proportion of our population lead largely inactive lifestyles, and very often they associate activity with feelings of discomfort or lack of enjoyment so there’s a role for low calorie interventions that may encourage people to be more active by altering how difficult they perceive those activities to be.”
“My PhD investigated the effects of environmental conditions and nutritional interventions on endurance exercise performance, and my principal research interest remains endurance exercise performance. We’re currently evaluating the effects of acute nutritional interventions on So there may be hope for us yet, as Andy cycling time trial performance in well- takes his research forward. His PhD students trained cyclists.” are currently completing projects focused on cycling pacing strategies, nutritional And here’s the science bit: interventions for improved hand-eye “In road cycling, upward of 7000 Kcal can co-ordination and ultra-endurance exercise be used each day. The recommended dietary performance. He is also on the editorial intake for most people is 2000/2500 Kcal board of the Journal of Science and (for males/females), so it’s a major Cycling. challenge to consume enough to recover
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill 2012
1896. Edge Hill principal Miss Hale is busy ensuring that ‘every care is taken to provide for the physical well-being, the intellectual development, and the efficient professional training of the students’ (HMI report, 1895) at the new PE teacher training college for women in Liverpool. At around the same time in Athens, Baron Pierre de Coubertin is launching the modern Olympic Games.
Edge Hill University
Over a hundred years later, thousands of athletes from around the world descended upon the UK for the London 2012 summer Olympics and Paralympics. Swimmers and athletes from the Federated States of Micronesia (FDM), along with wrestlers from American Samoa and teams from the Marshall Islands set up camp at Edge Hill, and received the same welcome as those pioneering young women did all those years ago, before heading for London.
Edge Hill University had its own man stationed in the stadium, Dean Williams, senior lecturer in Physical Education. He was chief field referee of the team of technical officials for field events at the 2012 Olympic Games, ensuring that everything was above board and by the book. He revisited his highlights of London 2012 for us.
What was your general impression of the Games? “Just being part of a fantastic Olympic Games in general, knowing that the country had done a great job. The atmosphere around the Olympic Park itself was superb, with giant screens showing live performances and the looks on people’s faces. Staying in the Olympic village was also an experience – the food hall was about the size of two aircraft hangars.
“I remember the decathletes saying they had never seen the likes of the support before at morning sessions, as 40-50,000 stayed in the stadium to see them complete their pole-vault during the session break!
“The crowd supported all the athletes, but the decibels went up considerably if it was a Brit. I remember seeing young Katarina Johnson-Thompson from Liverpool being announced at the start of the Heptathlon 200m and she was amazed at the roar she got, she looked around and could only say ‘oh wow’!
They were also incredibly sensitive. During the Paralympic visually-impaired jumps, for example, the athletes use a guide to direct them using auditory signals. 80,000 people were silent to allow the athletes to hear the guide, but then heard the roar of applause for their performance afterwards.” What was your sporting highlight of the Games? “I was the referee on the Men’s Long Jump Final on “Super Saturday”, and it was great to see Greg Rutherford’s disbelief at becoming Olympic Champion. I was also fortunate to be at the start for the men’s 100m final, won, of course, by the amazing Usain Bolt.
many youngsters to take up sport and to focus on what they can do to overcome any adversity they may face and to enjoy participation in physical activity both recreationally and competitively right up to the highest standard. I’d also hope that the magnificent job the Olympic and Paralympic volunteers did would be a catalyst for more people to volunteer in their communities.”
“In the Paralympics, it was Aled Davies winning the F42 Discus for GB in a new European record to a roar from the crowd the Paralympics has probably never heard before!”
As a coach and teacher, is there anything you took away from the Games? “As a coach, it was interesting to see the variety of techniques used in some of the events, and how the athletes prepared.
“As a teacher, it was the importance of taking part: for example, seeing athletes from smaller countries who were just proud to participate as Olympians.
“And the ways in which people can still strive to take part in physical activity, from the community level up, as coaches, officials, volunteers, or medical support staff.”
In terms of a London 2012 legacy, what would you like to see? “I’d hope that there’s a legacy of participation in sport across all groups in society and an interest in lifelong healthy activity. Hopefully it will have inspired
Dean’s Heroes of the Games
“I thought Jessica Ennis was superb in living up to the intense expectations that had been put upon her, and delivering in style. I particularly admired the performance and tenacity of IIiesa Delana in winning the F42 (amputee) High Jump with 1.74 metres for Fiji, their first ever Paralympic medal.
“And finally, the volunteer ‘Games Makers’ who at their own expense did so much to make the Olympics and Paralympics the success they were, and always with a smile!”
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
Pushing the Boundaries of Sporting Knowledge Delegates travelled from as far afield as Alabama, USA for the annual Edge Hill University PE and School Sport Conference. With the Physical Education profession facing considerable changes, the Forum provided an opportunity to discuss the challenges ahead.
"The aim of this conference is to bring together a variety of PE professionals to share their findings from practice-based research. This ensures that each year, as a group, we continually provide informed and enhanced subject knowledge," explained Senior Lecturer in Physical Education and event organiser Gareth Williams.
With government austerity measures, and the new National Curriculum at a consultative stage, the event attracted a wide range of subject leaders, including keynote speakers Professor Ken Green from the University of Chester, Professor Gareth Stratton from the University of Swansea, and Professor Matt CurtnerSmith from the University of Alabama.
"I believe we have now firmly established the conference at Edge Hill as a key annual event. The feedback we’ve received has been extremely positive, with people very impressed by the varied nature of the Forum. Everyone, from undergraduate students to visiting academics, indicated they’d got a lot out of the day, which is great news, and plans are already underway for the next conference,” concluded Gareth.
The Department is rapidly building a good reputation for facilitating serious exploration and discussion of sport in the UK, and have also hosted a summit on rehabilitation in professional football, developing the debate over the welfare and treatment of injured athletes. Speakers included medical practitioners from professional football clubs Chelsea and Blackburn Rovers, as well as senior medical professionals from a host of other sports, including a consultant who has worked with the British basketball squad, and the performance director of Premiership rugby union side Northampton Saints. The events are all part of our commitment to the development of knowledge in sports, and providing a platform for serious sport research.
“It’s commonly assumed that if young people are doing the things that people in The Inbetweeners do, where they’re going out drinking, socialising, shopping and so on, they don’t involve themselves in sport and physical activity. But the evidence indicates that actually many of the young people on whom we have evidence will do both of those things,” says Andy.
Taking The Inbetweeners as its starting point, Professor Smith’s research challenges everyday perceptions of young people's lives, especially those offered by politicians and the media, arguing that many young people's lives are considerably more complex than we are inclined to think, typically incorporating participation in a range of activities, including sport, alongside some health-inhibiting pursuits that complement the difficult and complex transition from childhood to adulthood. His research seeks a better understanding of the lives of young people and to see how their private troubles can only properly be addressed by recognising that they are, in fact, widely shared public issues in ‘unexciting societies' such as Britain.
“During my research students would argue that actually many of their lives are more complicated than even lecturers, parents or the press would have you believe. But they appreciate much more that their voices are being heard and their lives are serious and being taken into account. It’s important to give young people a voice and to represent their lives in ways that are supported by the evidence rather than how we’d like them to be portrayed.”
This approach to working with young people forms the basis of our approach to teaching at Edge Hill, Andy continues:
Teenagers Fight For Their Right to Do More Than Party Teenagers, eh? All they seem to do is stand around, plan their next ill-advised extracurricular adventure, fantasise about the opposite sex, and churn out a steady stream of puerile, foul-mouthed banter. Or so we would be led to believe, watching the exploits of The Inbetweeners, the four suburban teenagers in E4’s hit tv series. But does the show really represent the sum of our late-teen experiences? Professor Andy Smith, Associate Head for Sport Studies and Sport Development thinks not.
“Students are always encouraged to use this way of seeing the world to make a positive contribution to the lives of others in the three years of work experience and internships available to them. Students’ ability to translate theory into practice in the ‘real world’ is always a very positive aspect of the feedback we receive from employers from whom students gain considerable hands-on experience in sports-related settings.” Professor Smith is co-editor of the International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics and leads the Department's Social Science of Sport Research Group. His research activity focuses on the sport and leisure careers of university students and the ways in which youth sport socialisation influences future participation in sport and physical activity. He is particularly interested in the sport and leisure careers of university students and the ways in which youth sport socialisation influences future participation in physical activity.
Department of Sport and Physical Activity
Edge Hill University
Alumni Profile Jessica Tonge BA (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport West Lancashire student Jessica Tonge proved hard work definitely pays off when she graduated with first-class honours and landed her ideal job.
Jessica, from Skelmersdale, had double reason to celebrate after gaining fantastic results in her BA (Hons) Physical Education and School Sport and securing employment, despite the challenging graduate job market.
Jessica is now working as a coach for West Lancashire School Sports Partnership, having juggled working part-time, volunteering and studying while at Edge Hill:
"Although I was working, which sometimes made it hard to fit everything in, I knew the importance of gaining as much experience as possible, so I did a lot of volunteering, including working at primary schools. I also started all of my assessments and projects as soon as I got them, and I think the combination of work experience and good organisational skills has really helped me succeed.
Alumni Network
Donning the cap and gown, collecting your hard-earned graduation certificate, and drinking the celebratory champagne does not signal the end of your relationship with Edge Hill Uni. We like to think it’s just the beginning of a beautiful friendship. All we want from you is to know how you’re doing every now and then. Our alumni network team does the rest of the work for you, keeping you informed of reunions, events, offers and more.
Edge Hill Sport and Physical Activity graduates can get involved in the alumni network by emailing us: alumni@edgehill.ac.uk
"I really enjoyed my time at Edge Hill. I gained a number of coaching qualifications offered by the University, and my lecturers and tutors were really supportive, always on hand to help.
“The School Sports Partnership programme is a national initiative involving every school in the country. The aim of the programme is to encourage all schools to ensure that every pupil within their school is participating in at least two hours of high quality PE every week. I’m so excited that I’ll be helping schools in West Lancashire achieve this goal.”
Stanley Matthews, Tom Finney, Nat Lofthouse, Alan Shearer, Bobby Charlton, Jimmy Greaves. Sue Smith is in exalted company as one of the few English footballers to have scored on their international debut. But not even they can boast they did it against Germany, which was how a 16-year-old Sue burst onto the international women’s football scene in 1996.
As a football-mad child the Edge Hill graduate was constantly kicking a ball about with the boys, and even made the school team. She soon realised, though, that being a female footballer was not going to be an easy ride:
“I was allowed to train with the boys but I wasn’t allowed to play in any competitive matches because I was a girl. It was very frustrating, for me and the boys, because I was a good player, but those were the rules. However, it only made me more determined to succeed.”
At 14, Sue was signed by Tranmere Rovers Ladies, but her parents encouraged her to keep up her studies. “They had faith in my sporting abilities but wanted me to have something to fall back on,” says Sue. “I was only interested in one subject, so the degree in Sports Studies at Edge Hill was ideal. Being a local girl, I knew Edge Hill had some of the best sporting facilities in higher education so I was confident I could continue my training there.”
Alumni Profile Sue Smith BA (Hons) Sports Studies Football career Debut Tranmere Rovers: 1994 England: 1996 v Germany Position Current club Previous clubs International record
Winger/forward Doncaster Rovers Belles (2011- ) Tranmere Rovers (1994-2002), Leeds Utd (2002-10), Lincoln Ladies (2010-11) 93 caps, 16 goals
Honours Winner, Cyprus Cup 2009 Finalist, Euro 2009 (England) Finalist, League Cup (Tranmere 2001) FA Cup Finalist (Leeds United 2006, 2008) FA Premier League Cup Finalist (2007) Nationwide International Player of the Year award in 1999 and 2001
In her first year Sue was selected to play for England in the UEFA European Women’s Championship, which meant leaving her studies and jetting off to Germany: “My tutors were so accommodating whenever I had a competition – I even took an exam abroad!”
Now playing for Doncaster Rovers Belles, Sue is one of England’s most successful female football players with 90 international caps and 16 goals, twice being voted Nationwide International Player of the Year.
Sue is also an active member of Sport England’s Sporting Champions programme, visiting schools and communities encouraging young people to get fit and play sport:
“I’ve got such a lot out of sport so I wanted to pass on my experience. Not everyone is going to have a professional career, but through sport young people can build confidence, learn skills and make new friends.
“I know kids have a lot of other options like computer games and social networking, but it makes me sad when I see empty parks and playing fields on a lovely day. If I can inspire one child to get out there and play sport, then it’s been worthwhile.”
If you would like to find out more about our programmes, or book in on any of our Open Days or for a tour of the campus, please visit our website: edgehill.ac.uk/sport UK STUDENTS: Course Information, Advice and Guidance Edge Hill University St Helens Road Ormskirk Lancashire L39 4QP
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: International Office Edge Hill University St Helens Road Ormskirk Lancashire L39 4QP
T: 01695 657000 E: study@edgehill.ac.uk
T: +44 1695 657 122 E: international@edgehill.ac.uk
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