By Georgina Ewer, Head Physiotherapist for London Welsh RFC
I always aspired to work full time in sport and having studied physiotherapy in Cardiff, the rugby capitol of Wales, what better a place for me to get involved with the sport of rugby. I studied at Cardiff University from 2003-06 and shadowed physio’s at local rugby clubs throughout my training. Upon qualifying I worked in the NHS for just shy of 5 years, again supplementing this experience with part time rugby at the Cardiff Blues Academy and the age grade international women.
My main move into sport came from a post at the University of Bath Sports Injury Clinic where I grew immensely as a clinician. My time here included 3 years with the British Bobsleigh squad and commencing an MSc in Sports Physiotherapy which I plan to conclude this year with a study into the effects of Kinesiology Taping Following my first season as Head Physio at London Welsh RFC I have transferred skills from previous posts and added this to my rugby specific knowledge with a big focus on emergency trauma management within the RFU. Working in full time sport is tough and life consuming, certainly not glamorous but the rewards from being part of the team keep you going through the highs and lows.
If you are looking to work in an elite sports environment, then voluntary and/or paid grass roots level work and hours of hands on experience in a sporting environment, along with hard work and a willingness to throw a hand to anything will be your basic necessities.
Clinical skill set and expertise is essential for any job description, however, personality, durability, passion and commitment is what will make or break you in this environment.