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Science for Sport Podcast

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Feb 3, 2025 • 31min

253: Jeff Reinebold: This Coaching Lesson Changed Everything

Jeff Reinebold: Four Decades of Sports Science, Mentorship, and Saving Athletes’ Futures" What if the key to unlocking peak performance isn’t just data or drills—but care? Join coaching legend Jeff Reinebold—a pioneer across the NFL, CFL, NCAA, and Sky Sports—as he unveils the untold secrets behind football’s evolution. In this episode, Reinebold (coach, broadcaster, and sports science advocate) pulls back the curtain on: **Tech’s Game-Changing Role: **How Catapult and modern metrics transformed player safety—and why “old-school grit” alone can’t protect athletes. **The Vermeil Effect: **Lessons from NFL icon Dick Vermeil on mentoring players before metrics existed—and why “care” is vital. **Avoiding Catastrophe: **The heart-stopping story of a player’s death that reshaped Reinebold’s approach to conditioning—and what every coach must learn. **Future-Proofing Football: **Can AI and wearables coexist with locker-room soul? Reinebold’s blueprint for blending tradition with innovation. Why Sports Science Pros Need This Episode: Actionable Insights: Learn how to balance hard data with human connection—a skill critical for today’s athlete development. Safety First: Discover protocols to prevent overtraining, reduce injuries, and build trust (backed by 50 years of trial-by-fire experience). **Legacy Building: **Steal Vermeil’s mentorship playbook for creating cultures where players and tech thrive. This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a masterclass from a man who’s coached on three continents, survived football’s analog-to-digital revolution, and still believes the game’s future hinges on one question: Do your athletes know you care? Listen now and redefine what “science” means in your playbook. ** About Jeff Reinebold** Jeff Reinebold is an American football coach with over four decades of experience across collegiate and professional levels. Born on November 19, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, he played defensive back at the University of Maine before embarking on a diverse coaching career. Reinebold has held positions in the Canadian Football League (CFL), NFL Europe, and NCAA, serving teams such as the BC Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Notably, he contributed to the University of Hawai‘i's successful 2006 and 2007 seasons, which included a historic BCS bowl appearance. Beyond coaching, Reinebold is recognized as an NFL analyst for Sky Sports in the UK and hosts "The Jeff Reinebold Show." As of 2024, he serves as the defensive tackles coach for the University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors. 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
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Jan 27, 2025 • 29min

252: How to Maximise Athlete Performance & Recovery

This week we are unlocking the Secrets of Elite Performance with Dr Peter Tierney! From the high-pressure world of professional rugby and football to cutting-edge performance apparel, Dr Peter Tierney has seen it all. In this episode, we dive deep into what it takes to win at the highest level, exploring the critical lessons from his time with Leinster Rugby’s Heineken Cup-winning squad, the evolving science of athlete recovery, and the power of data in shaping the future of sports performance. Discover: The biggest mistakes teams make when trying to replicate success Why recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all approach – and how to get it right How wearable tech is changing the game (for better or worse!) What elite coaches like Stuart Lancaster do differently If you're serious about maximising performance, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply straight away. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports science enthusiast – you don't want to miss this one! ** About Dr Peter Tierney** Dr Peter Tierney is a highly experienced sports scientist and performance coach with over a decade of experience working across multiple sports, including rugby, football, and athletics. He has held key roles with Leinster Rugby, contributing to their Heineken Cup success, and has worked in industry innovation, focusing on performance apparel. Dr Tierney specialises in athlete recovery, data-driven performance strategies, and applying cutting-edge sports science to optimise results. He actively shares insights on social media and contributes to advancing the field through research and applied practice. 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
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Jan 20, 2025 • 34min

251: Old-School Grit vs Modern Sports Science in Football

Dive into this episode of the Science for Sport podcast with Chris Morgan, whose football journey spans from playing in the Premier League with Barnsley and Sheffield United to coaching and now working as a FIFA football agent. Chris offers unparalleled insights into how the game has transformed over the decades, shedding light on the stark contrasts between the old-school training methods and the modern-day data-driven, science-supported approach to player development. Through candid stories, Chris reflects on the evolution of sports science in football, the challenges and opportunities for today's athletes, and the critical role of mindset and character in achieving success. He tackles hot-button topics like whether modern footballers are overcoached, if data analysis and sports science have stripped the game of its creativity, and how young players can stand out in an increasingly competitive landscape. Whether you're a coach, analyst, or sports science professional, this episode delivers practical takeaways and thought-provoking perspectives on the balance between tradition and technology in football. Get ready to rethink your approach to player development and performance management. ** About Chris Morgan** Chris Morgan is a former Premier League footballer turned FIFA football agent with a career spanning nearly three decades in the game. Starting as a gritty young defender at Barnsley, he made his Premier League debut in the 1997 season before becoming a fan favourite at Sheffield United, where he spent 13 years as a player, captain, and coach. Known for his no-nonsense leadership and deep understanding of the game, Chris transitioned into coaching and eventually into his current role as an agent for Stellar Group. Drawing on his experiences across all levels of football, he now scouts and mentors the next generation of talent, blending his old-school values with insights into modern sports science and analytics. A straight-talking advocate for hard work and character, Chris offers a unique perspective on the evolution of football both on and off the pitch. 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
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Jan 13, 2025 • 26min

250: The Science for Sport Story

In this episode, we unveil The Science for Sport Story with none other than its founder, Owen Walker. From his early days chasing football dreams to building the world’s go-to platform for sports science education, Owen shares the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that shaped Science for Sport. Discover how a failed footballer’s passion for sports science turned into a revolutionary resource used by professionals and students worldwide. Join host Richard Graves as he dives into the vision behind Science for Sport, its impact on athletes and coaches, and the exciting future of sports science education. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a coach, or simply curious about the journey of turning an idea into a global phenomenon, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! ** About Owen Walker** Owen Walker is the founder of Science for Sport, a platform revolutionizing sports science education worldwide. Starting as an aspiring footballer, Owen’s passion for understanding performance and recovery led him to a career in sports science, including roles at Cardiff City FC and beyond. With a mission to make evidence-based knowledge accessible to all, Owen has turned Science for Sport into a trusted resource for professionals, students, and coaches globally. His journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of education. 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
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Jan 6, 2025 • 32min

249: The Untold Evolution of Sports Medicine

In this episode of the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Dave Hancock, a sports performance pioneer with a career spanning over three decades in professional sport. From the sidelines of Leeds United to the championship-winning New York Knicks and beyond, Dave shares incredible insights into the evolution of sports science, athlete care, and the role of data and AI in revolutionising performance. Discover how today’s athletes are transforming their careers with personalised performance teams, the impact of cutting-edge technologies like AI on injury prevention, and the challenges practitioners face in adapting to the ever-increasing demands of elite sport. Whether you're a sports scientist, strength and conditioning coach, or simply a fan fascinated by what happens behind the scenes, this episode offers unparalleled access to the world of elite athlete management and cutting-edge sports science. Don’t miss this conversation filled with practical insights, personal anecdotes, and a look at where the future of sports science is headed. ** About Dave Hancock** Dave Hancock is a distinguished Performance Director, Chartered Physiotherapist, and Strength Coach with nearly 30 years of experience across professional sports in both Europe and the USA. His career includes pivotal roles such as Head Physiotherapist at Leeds United FC and Chelsea FC, where he contributed to Premier League and FA Cup successes. Notably, Dave became the first British Performance Director in the NBA, serving with the New York Knicks. He has also been part of the English National Team's medical staff during the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championships. Currently, Dave is the CEO of Apollo V2, a sports software company that aids teams and athletes in performance enhancement and injury prevention. 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
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Dec 30, 2024 • 32min

248: Overcoming Pressure and Performing Under Stress

How do elite athletes handle pressure and perform at their peak when it matters most? In this episode, host Richard Graves sits down with renowned sports psychologist Dr. Haley Perlus to uncover the secrets behind mastering the mental game. In This Episode, Discover: The surprising story that inspired Dr. Perlus’ career in sports psychology. How to turn pressure into your greatest advantage. Practical strategies to stay calm and focused under stress. Why “the best athlete is the best recoverer.” How boredom and stillness can unlock brilliance. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or someone looking to level up your mindset, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive under pressure in sports and life. ** About Dr Haley Perlus** Dr. Haley Perlus is a distinguished sport and performance psychologist with a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Drawing from her background as an elite alpine ski racer, coach, fitness professional, and entrepreneur, she provides clients with mental toughness tools to achieve peak performance. Dr. Perlus has collaborated with top athletes, Fortune 100 executives, and global brands to overcome mental barriers and attain tailored results. She is a professor at the University of Colorado, and author of several books, including "The Ultimate Achievement Journal" and "The Inside Drive." Her insights have been featured in publications such as Thrive Magazine, Fitness Magazine, and IDEA Fitness Journal 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
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Dec 23, 2024 • 32min

247: Bold Choices: Coaching with Impact

In this must-listen episode of the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Ajmal Shahzad—World T20 champion, fast-bowling coach, and cricket trailblazer. Ajmal shares his journey from making history as Yorkshire's first Asian-born player to becoming a sought-after coach in the modern game. Discover: The advice legendary all-rounder Imran Khan gave him that changed his game. How Ajmal brought cricket back to Pakistan with an historic MCC tour. His philosophy on developing fast bowlers in today’s game. The challenges and triumphs of transitioning from player to coach. Ajmal’s honest reflections on authenticity, leadership, and learning from failure will leave you inspired. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or cricket fan, this episode is packed with insights to help you elevate your game. ** About Ajmal Shahzad** Ajmal Shahzad is a former professional cricketer and World T20 champion who represented five counties and England at the international level. Breaking barriers as Yorkshire's first Asian-born player, Ajmal transitioned into coaching after a successful playing career. He is now the lead bowling coach at Derbyshire and has worked with elite teams like the Trent Rockets. Renowned for his innovative approach and leadership, Ajmal continues to inspire the next generation of cricketers while shaping the future of fast bowling. 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
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Dec 16, 2024 • 34min

246: Cracking the Code of Sports Performance

What does it take to lead in the high-pressure world of professional football? Ross Burbeary, Head of Performance at Huddersfield Town, shares his incredible journey from martial arts and ice hockey to shaping culture and optimising performance in football. In this episode, Ross reveals the secrets behind great leadership, why 'chameleons' thrive, and how to build a winning culture in any organisation. Plus, discover how Ross and his team raised over £1 million for prostate cancer through the inspiring initiative, Prostate United. Packed with insights, and leadership lessons, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports, performance, and making a difference! About Ross Burbeary Ross Burbeary is an accomplished sports performance professional with over a decade of experience in elite football and other sports. He began his career at Sheffield Wednesday, working as a Strength and Conditioning Coach in their academy, before taking on roles at clubs including Doncaster Rovers, Nottingham Forest, Rotherham United, Lincoln City, and Derby County. His expertise spans strength and conditioning, sports science, and fostering high-performance cultures. Currently the Head of Performance at Huddersfield Town Football Club, Ross is passionate about optimising performance and driving culture change. Beyond football, he co-founded Prostate United, an initiative that has raised over £1 million for Prostate Cancer UK, uniting participants from clubs across the globe. With experience in the NHL and a dedication to leadership, Ross continues to be a transformative figure in sports 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
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Dec 9, 2024 • 31min

245: Mastering Confidence: Secrets of Elite Performance

🎙️ Mastering Confidence: Secrets of Elite Performance What separates elite performers from the rest? How can you cultivate confidence, resilience, and the mindset to excel under pressure? This week, Richard Graves sits down with Dr. Chris Shambrook, former Team GB rowing psychologist and Performance Director at Planet K2, to uncover the secrets behind high-level success. From working with Olympic champions like Steve Redgrave to applying psychology in the business world, Dr. Shambrook shares fascinating insights into building confidence, handling egos, and thriving in high-stakes environments. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or professional looking to unlock your full potential, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom you don’t want to miss. 👉 Tune in and discover how to become the consistent factor in a chaotic world. About Dr. Chris Shambrook Dr. Chris Shambrook is a distinguished performance psychologist with over 25 years of experience, including five Olympic Games with Team GB's rowing team. As Group Performance Director at PlanetK2, he translates elite sports insights into practical strategies for business leaders and teams. An accomplished speaker and author, Chris has co-authored three books and holds an honorary professorship from Staffordshire University 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
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Dec 2, 2024 • 35min

244: Inside the NFL's Concussion Protocols

Inside the NFL's Concussion Protocols: Dr. Allen Sills on Player Safety This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Allen Sills, Chief Medical Officer of the NFL, to the Science for Sport Podcast. In a game renowned for its intensity, how does the league ensure player safety on and off the field? Dr. Sills pulls back the curtain on cutting-edge concussion protocols, game-changing safety innovations, and the evolution of health measures that protect athletes at every level. From independent spotters stopping the game to the millions invested in research and equipment, discover the science and strategy reshaping one of the world’s most physically demanding sports. Dr. Sills also shares exclusive insights on the future of player safety, collaboration with global sports leagues, and how the NFL is setting new standards for health in elite sports. Whether you’re an NFL fan, a sports scientist, or someone fascinated by the intersection of medicine and performance, this episode is packed with revelations you can’t miss. Tune in now and join the conversation about the evolving science of saving lives in sport. About Dr Allen Sills Dr. Allen Sills is the NFL's Chief Medical Officer, appointed in March 2017 as the league's first CMO. A neurosurgeon specializing in athlete care, he is also a Professor of Neurological Surgery and Co-Director of the Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center. Dr. Sills collaborates with team medical staffs, the NFL Players Association, and medical experts to enhance player health and safety through rule changes, equipment evolution, and injury reduction plans. He led the NFL's COVID-19 response and spearheaded the league's Injury Reduction Plan, achieving a 24% decrease in reported concussions in 2018. An active researcher with over 170 scientific publications, Dr. Sills is a member of the Concussion in Sport Group, setting international concussion standards. 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

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