Originally from England, I now find myself working clinically in Melbourne, Australia. I work across elite sport (in Australian Rules Football), in a Sport & Exercise Medicine Clinic (Alphington Sports Medicine Clinic) & surgical assisting upper & lower limb Orthopaedic Surgeons. I am currently in my final year of the Australasian College of Sport & Exercise Physicians (ACSEP) training programme.
What is your main area of research / clinical expertise?
Given the stage of my career, I’m actively avoiding narrowing down my clinical scope in pursuit of becoming an “expert”!
What is your motivation to be a member of the BOSEM team?
The ability to learn invaluable research tips from the editorial team whilst also helping to give an opinion on the clinical application of manuscripts is really rewarding.
What is a work-related accomplishment that you’re really proud of?
By the age of 30, I was able to work internationally as a doctor for two countries in two different sports – Football; England U16 & Netball; Australian Diamonds. I have also been lucky enough to provide medical coverage at multigame events, including Commonwealth Games & Invictus Games, working with both able-bodied and parathletes.
Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?
I have been extremely lucky (& grateful) to have Dr Michael Makdissi as my mentor / clinical supervisor over the past 5 years. Some of the most important learnings during my SEM career to date have come from informal discussions with him covering topics that you can’t access in textbooks or journals, such as dealing with irate sports coaches, comforting a distraught athlete and communicating with pushy parents. I would highly recommend to all juniors clinicians that a good mentor is a cornerstone to becoming a great clinician!
What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?
Currently, it is to revise for my final ACSEP exams! Usually, I will take my dog for a walk with my partner before we – COVID permitting – try out a new restaurant or bar in Melbourne.