Stories

Growing through sport - A Journey from Leeds to Australia

Liam is a passionate sport and wellbeing individual currently based in Gold Coast, Australia. With a background in sports performance and psychology, he now works in community sport development, supporting athletes across all levels. While at Leeds Beckett, he also served as Club Captain and embraced leadership opportunities. Liam is passionate about encouraging people to live more active, healthy lives - whether that’s through coaching, mentoring, or program delivery.

Stories

Liam, a science of sport performance and sport and exercise psychology alum, at his graduation.

Courses: BSc (Hons) Science of Sport Performance; MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology

 

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you've been doing since you graduated?

Since graduating from Leeds Beckett, I’ve relocated to Australia and immersed myself in sport development and athlete wellbeing. Recently I became the Community Team Leader for Football Queensland. Outside of work, I’ve pursued endurance events like Hyrox and I’m currently training for the Melbourne Marathon, keeping my passion for performance and wellbeing alive. I also play semi-professional football here in the Gold Coast.

What have been the highlights of your career so far?

One of the biggest highlights has been working with young athletes to build confidence and resilience, particularly in communities where access to sport is limited. I’m also proud of leading programs that expand participation across Queensland. Becoming a team leader at Football Queensland was a key milestone, giving me the platform to influence broader participation strategies. I also work closely with the Brisbane Roar professional teams, helping bridge the gap between elite football and grassroots development.

Tell us about your job, what does this entail and did studying at Leeds Beckett help you get there?

I oversee regional development initiatives, engaging with schools and clubs to deliver inclusive football programs. Studying at Leeds Beckett gave me a strong foundation in understanding athlete needs, the value of community support systems, and applying theory to real-world situations. Modules like Young Athlete Development and Talent Development Environment were particularly influential in shaping my approach to supporting athletes’ growth and performance.

How has your experience studying at Leeds Beckett influenced you and your career?

My time at Leeds Beckett was pivotal. The hands-on learning, access to professional networks, and placement opportunities all helped shape my career path. Being Club Captain taught me leadership and communication skills that I still use today. The course’s blend of theory and applied practice helped me feel confident working across both coaching and psychological support roles. It also reinforced the value of inclusive sport environments, something I now prioritise in my work.

What attracted you to study your course at Leeds Beckett University?

The course content and structure perfectly matched my interests in sport performance and psychology. I was part of the first ever cohort to study this course, which felt exciting and was a risk worth taking. Leeds Beckett has a strong reputation in sport and exercise science, and the campus facilities impressed me during the open day. Studying in a vibrant city like Leeds with access to expert lecturers and sporting partnerships sealed my decision. It’s been rewarding to see the course grow and develop since then.

What did you enjoy about your course and what advice would you give someone thinking about studying this course?

I valued the strong mix of academic learning and practical experience, which prepared me well for a career in sport. The passionate teaching staff encouraged involvement in placements and projects with real sport organisations, giving me invaluable hands-on skills. My advice is to embrace every opportunity, “the magic you are looking for is in the work you’re avoiding”. The course really does open doors if you’re willing to put in the effort and step through them.

What's next for you?

I plan to continue growing within sport leadership and eventually move into roles focused more on athlete wellbeing and mental performance. I’m also exploring the pathway to becoming a qualified sport and exercise psychologist in Australia. Long-term, I’d love to contribute to national programs that make sport more inclusive, accessible, and empowering for all, and I’m excited about the opportunity to be involved in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. On a personal note, I’m preparing to complete my marathon in October while managing my football season to stay injury-free… fingers crossed!

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