Science for Sport Podcast

Join host Richard Graves in this episode of the Science for Sport podcast as he dives deep into the world of sports performance with the experienced consultant Tom Clough. With over a decade of experience, Tom shares his journey from aspiring athlete to a leading strength and conditioning coach, offering valuable insights that will resonate with both sports scientists and fans alike. In this episode, Tom discusses his transformative experiences in the US sports system and how they shaped his coaching philosophy. He explores the crucial role of leadership in sports, emphasising the importance of staying connected with teams to foster an environment of trust and collaboration. Discover how diversity within a team can be its greatest strength, and learn about the challenges and triumphs that come with overcoming adversity in high-stakes environments. Tom also sheds light on the evolving role of technology in sports performance and the importance of interpreting data meaningfully to drive success. Whether you're a budding sports scientist or a passionate sports fan, this episode is packed with insights that will deepen your understanding of what it takes to excel in the world of sports. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind successful coaching and the power of teamwork in achieving greatness! About Tom Clough Tom Clough is an accomplished performance consultant and strength and conditioning coach with over a decade of experience in the field of sports performance. Passionate about athletic development, Tom began his career in personal training and sports therapy before pursuing an internship in the United States, where he honed his skills in strength and conditioning. Having worked with both rugby league and rugby union teams, Tom has a unique perspective on the coaching landscape, emphasising the importance of leadership, connection, and diversity within teams. His journey has taken him from the UK to the US and back, where he has been instrumental in helping athletes overcome challenges and achieve their peak performance. Tom is currently working with the Huddersfield Giants and continues to share his insights on coaching and performance enhancement. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

This week on the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves chats with Sophie Smith-Moore, the England Men’s Pathway Physiotherapist and Disability Cricket Medical Services Lead. In this episode, Sophie takes us on her journey from a fresh graduate to a key player in elite cricket, sharing her insights on the unique challenges faced by fast bowlers and the critical role of data analytics in injury prevention. Discover how Sophie navigates the fine line between traditional methodologies and cutting-edge science, ensuring athletes perform at their peak while staying injury-free. Sophie also reflects on her recent tour with the England men's under-19s in South Africa, offering invaluable lessons on self-care for practitioners and the importance of understanding the diverse needs of athletes in both men's and disability cricket. About Sophie Smith-Moore Sophie Smith-Moore is an experienced physiotherapist currently serving as the England Men’s Pathway Physiotherapist and Disability Cricket Medical Services Lead. A graduate of Northumbria University in 2011, Sophie initially entered the field without a clear focus on sports but quickly gravitated towards it. Sophie has worked with Yorkshire Cricket, GB Boxing and Leeds Carnegie and has gained valuable experience supporting players at various levels, including county and international. Sophie is passionate about optimising athlete performance and well-being, where she advocates for a holistic approach to care. With her expertise and commitment, she plays a vital role in shaping the future of sports physiotherapy in cricket. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

Ever wondered how elite athletes manage diabetes while pushing their bodies to the limit? In this captivating episode, we dive deep with Dr. Sam Scott, a renowned exercise physiologist and former Head of Research for Team Novo Nordisk - the world's first all-diabetes professional cycling team. Key highlights: Uncover the crucial differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and their unique challenges in sports Learn about cutting-edge technology revolutionising diabetes management for athletes Explore real-world insights from working with professional cyclists managing diabetes during intense competitions Discover how the latest continuous glucose monitoring systems are transforming athletic performance Understanding the future of diabetes management in sports Whether you're a sports scientist, coach, or athlete, this episode offers invaluable insights into the intersection of chronic health conditions and elite performance. Dr. Scott shares fascinating stories from the professional cycling circuit and provides practical advice for athletes at all levels managing diabetes. Perfect for anyone interested in: Sports Science Exercise Physiology Performance Technology Chronic Health Management in Sports Professional Cycling Medical Innovation in Athletics Join us for this eye-opening discussion that challenges preconceptions about diabetes in sports and showcases how technology and research are breaking down barriers for athletes worldwide. About Dr Sam Scott Dr. Sam Scott is a pioneering exercise physiologist specialising in diabetes and sports performance. As the former Head of Research for Team Novo Nordisk, the world's first all-diabetes professional cycling team, he has revolutionised how athletes with Type 1 diabetes compete at elite levels. Currently serving as founder and CEO of Enhanced-D, Dr. Scott combines his expertise in exercise science, diabetes care, and wearable technology to develop innovative solutions for athletes managing diabetes. His work spans from supporting professional cyclists and NFL players to helping everyday athletes prove that diabetes doesn't define athletic potential. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

Ever wondered what it takes to keep professional cricketers performing at their peak across a grueling season? This week, we dive deep with Jack McCann, Head Strength & Conditioning Coach at Leicestershire CCC, who shares fascinating insights into the evolution of cricket performance science. From managing international stars like Rehan Ahmed to nurturing academy prospects, Jack reveals the delicate balance of preparing players for everything from T20 explosiveness to multi-day endurance. But what makes this episode particularly intriguing is Jack's innovative "Fox's Recovery Framework" - a revolutionary approach that's transforming how players manage their recovery. And wait until you hear how modern technology is reshaping the future of cricket training in ways you never imagined... Key topics include: The science behind managing multi-format cricket demands How player monitoring has evolved beyond traditional methods The crucial relationship between S&C coaches and players Inside look at pre-season preparation for county cricket The future of wearable technology in cricket performance About Jack McCann A lifelong cricket enthusiast turned performance specialist, Jack McCann has established himself as a leading voice in cricket strength and conditioning. As the Head of S&C at Leicestershire County Cricket Club since 2020, he's helped transform the club's approach to physical preparation and player development. After starting his career in commercial gyms while pursuing his education, Jack found his true calling in cricket performance science. His innovative approach combines traditional training methodologies with cutting-edge technology and data analysis. At Leicestershire, he's been particularly influential in developing young talent while managing the complex demands of established professionals across multiple cricket formats. Jack's commitment to evidence-based practice and player-centered programming has contributed to the club's recent successes and their ability to compete consistently across all formats of the game. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

In this fascinating deep-dive, we explore a groundbreaking initiative that's set to revolutionise our understanding of impact forces in youth American football. The Denver Broncos Foundation and Riddell are launching an unprecedented state-wide programme that will generate millions of data points on player impacts, technique, and load management at the secondary school level. But the real story goes beyond the helmets. How does a thin proprietary film inside each helmet capture and translate impact data? What insights can coaches extract from nearly a million recorded impacts across 13,000 secondary school athletes? And most intriguingly - could this massive data collection effort fundamentally change how we approach technique development and injury prevention in contact sports? Join us as we dissect the technology with Riddell's Brian Kopp and explore the programme's implementation with the Broncos Foundation's Allie Engelken. We'll examine: The science behind impact sensing technology How real-time analytics are revolutionising coaching methodology The potential implications for evidence-based practice in youth sports Whether you're a sports scientist, strength coach, or performance specialist, this episode offers unprecedented insights into the future of data-driven player development. This isn't just about American football - it's about understanding how technology can bridge the gap between elite and grassroots sports science. About Allie Engelken As Executive Director of the Denver Broncos Foundation, Allie Engelken is driving transformative change in youth sports across Colorado. With extensive experience in community development and sports philanthropy, she leads strategic initiatives that bridge the gap between professional and grassroots sports. Under her leadership, the Foundation has launched unprecedented programs, including the largest statewide smart helmet initiative in American football history. Her work focuses on removing barriers to participation while elevating safety standards in youth sports through innovative partnerships and technology adoption. About Brian Kopp A pioneering figure in sports technology and analytics, Brian Kopp serves as Senior Vice President at Riddell, where he leads the development and implementation of their groundbreaking smart helmet technology. With over two decades of experience in sports innovation, Brian previously held executive positions at STATS LLC and SportRadar, where he transformed how data is used in professional sports. His expertise spans across player tracking, performance analytics, and safety technology development, making him one of the industry's leading voices in sports science and equipment innovation.

From the dugouts of League Two to the intense pressure of the Premier League, former Luton Town Head of Performance Jared Roberts-Smith takes us behind the scenes of one of football's most remarkable journeys. In this captivating episode, Jared reveals how sports science has revolutionised the beautiful game over his 14-year career, sharing intimate insights into the physical and mental demands of Premier League football that few get to witness. Discover the cutting-edge recovery techniques used by elite athletes, the psychological challenges of competing at the highest level, and what it really takes to survive in the world's most demanding league. Jared opens up about the emotional toll of last-minute defeats, the intense concentration required for 90+ minutes of Premier League football, and how modern players must maximise every aspect of their preparation to succeed. Whether you're a sports professional, aspiring athlete, or passionate fan, this episode offers unprecedented access to the evolution of football performance and the fine margins that separate success from failure at the elite level. Join us for a masterclass in modern football performance from someone who helped orchestrate one of the sport's greatest underdog stories. About Jared Roberts-Smith About Jared Roberts-Smith: A pioneering figure in football performance, Jared Roberts-Smith brings 14 years of elite experience in professional football, most recently serving as Head of Performance at Luton Town FC during their historic rise from League Two to the Premier League. His career includes influential roles at Charlton Athletic, Stoke City, and Melbourne Victory, where he has been instrumental in revolutionising performance infrastructure and methodology. As a leader in sports science implementation, Jared has overseen the development of state-of-the-art performance centres, pioneered recovery protocols, and helped transform how clubs approach player optimisation. His unique perspective spans multiple levels of professional football, from League Two to the Premier League, making him one of the most insightful voices in modern football performance. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

In this captivating episode, host Richard Graves sits down with Sam Kotadia, the pioneering sports psychologist supporting Wrexham FC's recent success and a transformative force in athletic mental performance for over two decades. Sam challenges conventional wisdom about positive thinking and mental preparation, offering a revolutionary perspective that turns traditional sports psychology on its head. From his early breakthrough with a tough-as-nails centre back at Colchester United to his current work with Hollywood-owned Wrexham FC and the inspiring Empire Fighting Chance programme in Bristol, Sam shares how his approach to performance psychology has evolved. He reveals why trying to control your mindset might be holding you back, and why embracing discomfort could be the key to unlocking peak performance. Discover why the lucrative self-help industry might be missing the point, how world-class athletes like Pelé and Ronaldo actually maintain their focus, and why that pre-game anxiety might not be the enemy you think it is. Whether you're an elite athlete, coach, or weekend warrior, this conversation will transform how you think about mental preparation and performance. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion that challenges everything you thought you knew about sports psychology and mental performance. Sam's refreshing perspective might just be the game-changer you've been looking for. About Sam Kotadia Sam Kotadia is a chartered sports psychologist with over two decades of experience transforming athletic performance at all levels. From his groundbreaking early work at Colchester United to his current role as the mind coach behind Wrexham FC's remarkable journey, Sam has consistently challenged traditional approaches to sports psychology. He's the founder of FlowSK and a key figure at Empire Fighting Chance, where he helps at-risk youth discover their potential through non-contact boxing. His revolutionary approach, which turns conventional positive thinking on its head, has earned him recognition across professional football and combat sports. Working alongside managers like Phil Parkinson, Sam has developed a unique philosophy that emphasises authenticity over forced positivity, helping athletes from grassroots to elite level unlock their natural performance state. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

From GPS Tracking to Game-Changing Analytics: The Evolution of Rugby Performance Technology Join us for a fascinating conversation with Tom May, former international rugby player and current Head of Global Rugby at Catapult Sports. In this episode, we dive deep into how cutting-edge technology is revolutionising rugby performance analysis and player welfare. Key discussion points include: How advanced analytics are transforming rugby from traditional 'brute force' approaches to data-driven decision making The crucial role of contextualising performance data for meaningful insights Latest innovations in player safety technology, including smart mouthguards for concussion detection Unique considerations in women's rugby performance monitoring and injury prevention The future of sports technology in broadcasting and fan engagement Whether you're a sports scientist, coach, or performance analyst, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology is shaping the future of rugby at all levels. May shares candid perspectives from both sides of the fence - as a former player and now a technology leader - making this a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports science and professional rugby. About Tom May A former international rugby player with an illustrious playing career spanning nearly two decades, Tom May brings unique insights from both sides of the professional rugby world. After making his debut in 1999 and playing at the highest levels of the sport, Tom has successfully transitioned into the sports technology sector. Now serving as Head of Global Rugby at Catapult Sports, he combines his extensive playing experience with a passion for advancing rugby through technology and analytics. His dual perspective as both a former player and technology leader makes him uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between traditional rugby culture and its data-driven future. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

From Elite Athletes to Weekend Warriors: The Science of Sports Nutrition with Dan Richardson Join host Richard Graves as he sits down with sports nutritionist Dan Richardson, who shares his expertise from working with Leeds United Academy and Leicestershire County Cricket. In this eye-opening episode, Dan breaks down the myths and misconceptions around sports nutrition, revealing why your post-workout nutrition might be more about fruits and vegetables than protein shakes. Discover: Why the 'food first' approach isn't always enough The truth about creatine and common supplement misconceptions How to properly fuel before, during, and after exercise The science behind recovery nutrition and why timing matters Practical nutrition strategies for both elite and recreational athletes Whether you're training for your first marathon or looking to optimise your athletic performance, this episode delivers actionable insights on how nutrition can enhance your training, recovery, and overall athletic success. Dan's blend of academic knowledge and real-world experience working across multiple sports makes this a must-listen for anyone interested in the science of sports nutrition. About Dan Richardson Dan Richardson is a distinguished sports nutritionist currently serving as the Academy Nutrition Lead at Leeds United Football Club and nutrition consultant for Leicestershire County Cricket's men's first team. With an academic foundation in Sports Science from Durham University and a Master's degree in Sports Nutrition from Manchester, Dan has built an impressive career supporting athletes across multiple sports including football, rugby, netball, and hockey. He also works with developing athletes through the Talented Athlete Support Scheme, helping GB and national team competitors optimise their performance through evidence-based nutrition strategies. Dan's approach emphasises "food first, but not food only," combining practical experience with scientific research to deliver results for both elite athletes and recreational sports enthusiasts. His expertise spans from youth development to professional sports, making him a trusted voice in sports nutrition. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher

From NFL Kicker to Diabetes Advocate: Brayden Narveson's Inspiring Journey In this captivating episode of the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with NFL kicker Brayden Narveson during Super Bowl week to share an extraordinary story of perseverance and athletic excellence. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes during his junior year of high school, Narveson didn't let this life-changing diagnosis derail his NFL dreams. Discover how cutting-edge technology, including the Omnipod insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring, enables Narveson to perform at the highest level of professional football. He takes us behind the scenes of his rookie NFL season with the Tennessee Titans and Green Bay Packers, sharing intimate details about managing diabetes while facing the intense pressures of being a professional athlete. This episode offers fascinating insights into: The intersection of professional sports and chronic health conditions How modern medical technology is revolutionizing athlete care The psychological aspects of managing diabetes in high-pressure situations What it takes to make it as an NFL kicker Whether you're an aspiring athlete, someone living with diabetes, or simply love inspiring sports stories, this conversation demonstrates how determination and modern science can help overcome any obstacle. Don't miss this powerful testament to the human spirit and the evolution of sports medicine. ** Brayden Narveson** Brayden Narveson is a professional NFL kicker and a Type 1 diabetic, proving that no obstacle can stand in the way of elite performance. Having played for the Tennessee Titans and Green Bay Packers, he shares his journey of managing diabetes while competing at the highest level. From overcoming challenges to embracing the pressure of pro sports, Brayden’s story is one of resilience, discipline, and determination. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Spotify Stitcher