Josh Iley

Why university?

To build my career in a field I was truly compelled by, and with a pathway to progress onto the degree, I knew I could devote myself to it.

Why sport and fitness?

I’ve always had an interest, from playing football and cross country running when I was younger, to exercising recreationally now. I wasn’t sure how I wanted to develop my career, I simply had an overall interest in the subject and wanted to learn the science behind it. I was challenged to complete my best work and re-discover an enjoyment in education which had previously been lacking.

Best thing about your course?

I had a keen interest in the strength and conditioning modules, and I found myself infatuated with the science underpinning athletic development. These modules combined with anatomy and physiology, human movement and biomechanics, gave me an essential underpinning knowledge of the inner workings of the human body.

What skills have you gained to help you in your chosen career?

Practical and theoretical skills that are essential for a career in sport and exercise, and competencies to coach gym and pitch-based skills to a range of athletes and clients, which are crucial working as a personal trainer and a strength and conditioning coach. I also gained research skills and how to critically evaluate scientific literature, which is a vital part of my professional practice.

What do you think about the campus and teaching?

The facilities are excellent, the course is delivered in a purpose-built space, which creates an amazing sport and exercise environment, including a full-sized sports hall, astro-turf pitches and fitness suite. There is space to gain coaching experience, as well enjoy the facilities recreationally, such as volleyball, which I enjoy playing and being a spectator.

The teaching is second to none, the lecturers have expertise in a range of subjects including coaching science, strength and conditioning, and physiology. There are a variety of opportunities for sport science graduates, so you can develop your skills and theoretical understandings in line with your career goals.

Ambitions for the future?

I completed my course, progressed onto the degree, where I graduated as the best overall undergraduate sport and exercise science student, and am currently studying for the MSc Physiotherapy at Teesside. The academic skills from my foundation degree, were key in underpinning this success.

Since graduating, I set up a personal training business, and worked at Leicester City FC in their prestigious Category 1 Academy. I am now the first team strength and conditioning coach at Middlesbrough Women FC, where I am responsible for the long-term athletic development, and overall fitness of the squad.