Exercise and Sport Science Student Lands Dream Role
A University of Newcastle student has secured a position with the Central Coast Mariners, fuelling the strong 11 year relationship between the club and the University.
Third-year Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science student, Simon Taylor (pictured), will work as either the NYL Strength and Conditioning Coach or A-League Strength and Conditioning Assistant, both of which will involve monitoring, observing and assisting in pitch and field sessions, as well as overseeing the recovery of players.
“Sport has always been a major part of my life… I jumped at the opportunity and accepted [the role] straight away. I'm excited to apply the knowledge and skills gained from my study in an industry setting” he said.
Having grown up in the Northern Sydney suburb of Berowra in NSW and excelling academically, Simon initially struggled to decide what career to pursue.
“Once it came time to submit our preferences to UAC, I reasoned that I enjoyed sport, science and maths and this lead me to apply for entry to the Bachelor Exercise and Sport Science at UON’s Ourimbah campus as my first preference.”
The Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science involves doing 40 hours of work placement. With the help of UON’s placement officers, Simon was put in contact with Brice Johnson, Head of Strength and Conditioning with the Central Coast Mariners to complete the placement, which has subsequently led to his new role.
“For us, Simon's enthusiasm, fresh ideas and knowledge are a huge plus for the team. Simon will also get to see what works and what needs adapting in the professional sporting environment.
“The club and UON have had a fantastic relationship that has been going for 11 years now. Students such as Simon and others further enhance UON's reputation, and the Central Coast Mariners are extremely thankful for UON's terrific support,” said Mr Johnson
Simon hasn’t looked back since beginning his degree with UON, and enjoys the serenity and intimacy of the Central Coast campus.
“It is fantastic to attend a small campus as it is easy to get involved... Our third year sport science cohort is such a tight knit group and you get to know everyone in the course,” he said.
Simon’s role will commence in August/September with preseason training and run for the 8 week season that will conclude in late January. After that, Simon is still working out his next steps.
“I am considering applying to study a Masters of Physiotherapy degree, but after that who knows. I am really enjoying working with the Mariners and if an opportunity for continued involvement arose, I would take it with both hands,” he said.
Related news
- From the Classroom to the Operating Room: Emily Mason’s Journey as an Indigenous Female Surgeon
- Partnering to prevent local extinction of threatened marsupial
- Launch of the School Students’ Statement on the Right to a Healthy Environment
- Funding boost to technology for lower emission steel
- Newcastle team on mission to improve childhood cancer outcomes
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.