)
Skip to main content

Myerscough College research showcased on the international stage

Published
Tuesday 20 Jun 2017

A Myerscough lead researcher has been given the opportunity to showcase some of the College's work on an international stage.

prague.jpg

Dr John Fry, Lead Researcher for Sport, has presented his research to leading academics at the 2017 European Association for Sociology of Sport (EASS), hosted by Charles University, in the historic city of Prague, Czech Republic.

John analysed the working lives of professional sportspeople, and focused on some of the trials and tribulations that plying your trade in the professional sports arena can bring.

John said: ‘’A key aspect of the research we undertake here at Myerscough is to consider a holistic approach to improving sport performance, which encompasses the physiological, psychological, bio-mechanical, pedagogical, and sociological aspects.

"This particularly research talk highlighted some of the sociological aspects which affect elite sporting performance, by looking in detail at golfer’s lives on tour.

"Results indicate that it is important to ensure support structures are put in place to support aspiring professionals, in regards to some of the hidden pressures of sports work, often not covered by the media.

"In extreme circumstances this can manifest itself in mental health related issues, including depression, amongst professional sportspeople.’’

Mental health issues are becoming increasingly prominent in elite sports, with a number of athletes speaking about such issues, most recently including England international footballer, Aaron Lennon.

John continues: "This research maps onto the academic provision offered at Myerscough, where graduates gain employment in sports management organisation involved in sporting elite athletes, and thus have an understanding of the hidden complexities of pro sport.’’

The EASS was set up in 2001 to help facilitate international networks and relationships at the forefront of their field, and has a strong international membership.

Myerscough College is proud of its commitment to original research and our teaching and learning, particularly at higher education level, is underpinned by strong scholarly activities; the pinnacle of which is the College’s pioneering research programme.

Myerscough has more than 30 lecturing staff actively engaged in research projects, often working alongside teams of undergraduate and postgraduate students. Relevant research helps to maintain the College’s position at the forefront of the industries it serves, whilst also adding value and diversity to our curriculum content and styles of teaching. As well as Dr John Fry’s specialist area of

Sports Performance, research is also conducted in the fields of Sustainable Agriculture and Arboriculture, Animal Welfare and Equine Performance, and Teaching and Learning.

For more details of research at Myerscough College, click here: http://www.myerscough.ac.uk/why-myerscough/research/

by Dave Salmon

DSalmon@myerscough.ac.uk