From a love of sport to a future in rehabilitation

For Jake McCann, choosing what to study at university meant finding a way to bring together two of his biggest interests, sport and business. Now in his first year of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science / Bachelor of Business at the University of Newcastle, Jake is developing the skills to pursue a career that combines both, with the long-term goal of running his own business.

An adventurous risk-taker who likes to forge his own path, Jake has represented NSW in soccer and competed in hockey at both state and international levels. His sporting experiences have played a key role in shaping his interests and inspiring his studies. Outside university, Jake enjoys going to the gym, running, walking, cooking, watching movies and TV shows, and spending time with friends.

When Jake discovered he could study exercise and sport science with business in a combined degree, he knew he’d found the right fit.

“I have always loved everything to do with sports, and I always had an interest in opening my own business one day, so seeing the combined degree with exercise and sport science and business together, it just had to be this one,” Jake says.

Moving away from home to start university was a big step for Jake, but he credits his family and former partner with providing encouragement and support along the way.

Like many students starting university, Jake has had to learn to balance his studies with other commitments. While managing his time and expectations has taken some adjustment, support from University staff has helped him navigate the transition.

He particularly appreciates the time course coordinators take to answer questions, explain concepts in greater depth and help students build their understanding.

“The staff are very understanding and happy to help however they can,” he says.

Beyond his studies, one of the highlights of Jake’s first year has been meeting people who share his interests and forming friendships he might not otherwise have made.

While most of Jake’s classes are held at the Hunter Sports Centre in Glendale, he also makes use of the University’s library when visiting campus, describing the facilities as amazing and well maintained.

Looking ahead, Jake hopes to build a career helping people recover from injuries and return to the sports and activities they love. He’s passionate about giving back to the community and applying what he learns at university to continue growing as a hockey coach.

His long-term goal is to become a physiotherapist and eventually open his own practice alongside a gym, specialising in sports and injury rehabilitation. By combining his knowledge of exercise and sport science with his business studies, Jake hopes to turn that ambition into reality.

Although he is still in the early stages of his university journey, Jake is already learning the importance of asking questions, building relationships and making the most of the support available.

Jake encourages anyone considering studying at the University of Newcastle to prepare, and  not to be afraid to ask for help along the way.

“Do your research, but call and ask for help. The university is amazing and extremely understanding that issues arise, and they go above and beyond to help figure out the best outcome for you,” he says.

I have always loved everything to do with sports, and I always had an interest in opening my own business one day, so seeing the combined degree with exercise and sport science and business together, it just had to be this one.