James Bledsoe, Cameron Owen, Sean Scantlebury and Emily Todd bring specialist knowledge in performance analysis, sports science and strength and conditioning to the tournament, helping players and coaches prepare for the demands of elite international rugby league. James Bledsoe is Senior Lecturer in Performance Analysis at Leeds Becketts Carnegie School of Sport and Head of Performance Analysis for England Men. His work involves using video and data to help coaches and players understand performances, prepare for opponents and make informed decisions. During the tournament we do everything from filming training to analysing training to analysing our opponents and analysing our own performances, James said. This work begins long before the first whistle. In the build-up to the World Cup, James and the wider performance analysis team have supported the development of game models and squad selection, helping coaches assess how the team can perform against different opponents. His role also reflects the connection between Leeds Becketts academic expertise and professional rugby league. Students have opportunities to gain experience through the universitys links with the sport, with some progressing into professional roles. While performance analysis helps teams understand the game, sports science supports the physical preparation needed to compete at the highest level. Cameron Owen, Senior Research Fellow in Sports Performance and Injury at Carnegie School of Sport, will work as a sports scientist with England Men. His role sits alongside a wider connection between Leeds Beckett and the England Rugby League pathway, which provides opportunities for students to develop their practical skills. Cameron said: England Rugby League provides opportunities for CSS students to be involved in their player and coach education days in which we profile the whole of the men's and women's pathway. He added: This creates an opportunity for the students to get hands-on skills working with these elite players who are looking to progress to the professional game. For England Women, Sean Scantlebury and Emily Todd bring complementary expertise in strength and conditioning, player monitoring and performance science. Sean is a Senior Research Fellow at Carnegie School of Sport and England Womens Strength and Conditioning Coach. His work includes monitoring players readiness and recovery to ensure they are prepared for training. Whilst Im in camp in Australia, my role will be to make sure that the players are prepared for each training session, monitoring the players on a daily basis to make sure that they're recovered and ready to train. Emily, a Leeds Beckett PhD student and Lead Sports Scientist for England Women, focuses on player workload management, using GPS data to monitor training demands and help ensure players are doing the right amount of work at the right time. Whilst at the world cup, I'll be overseeing the player load management, primarily looking at all the GPS data, ensuring that we're hitting where we need to be hitting, making sure that they're not doing too much or too less and when they need to be doing it. Her research also explores head impacts in the womens game and how these can be reduced while optimising performance, connecting her academic work with the wider challenges facing elite rugby league. Leeds Becketts facilities provided a base for England Women to bring different aspects of their preparation together, from gym and pitch sessions to recovery. Earlier this year, the team held training sessions at the university, with players including current third-year Sport and Exercise Science student Evie Cousins and alumna Keara Bennett taking part. England Women head coach Stuart Barrow highlighted the value of access to the facilities and specialist support. We try to professionalise the sport as much as we possibly can at this level and to have access to amazing facilities like the gym, the astroturfs and the grass fields and then to come in and do our recovery sessions in the cryo baths and masseuses on hand as well has just been exceptional to give the girls every opportunity to develop and advance in their careers, Stuart said. For Evie, who plays for Leeds Rhinos and is part of England Womens extended training squad, being able to combine her studies and rugby at Leeds Beckett has also been valuable. The universitys performance gym is available to her through a scholarship, while her lecturers have helped accommodate training commitments alongside her degree. Reflecting on the intensity of the England training environment, Evie, who studies Sport and Exercise Science said: Everyone's so focused on the World Cup, it's taken training up another 10 notches, everyone's so competitive and it's just making me strive to be better. Keara, who also plays for Leeds Rhinos and works as Women and Girls Development Officer at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, has experienced the university as both a student and an international player. The facilities here are just outstanding and I always look forward to coming back, she said. The involvement of Leeds Beckett academics in international rugby league brings professional experience into the universitys teaching and research, while creating opportunities for students to learn from the demands of elite sport. For Sean, working with England Women directly informs his work with students, giving them insight into the preparation required for international competition. He said: I'm able to take away my experiences whilst being on camp and help relay that to the students in terms of what its like to prepare an elite level team for international competition, the knowledge of working with a team on a daily basis in a high-level competition and share that experience to students so that if they go on to work with in professional sport, they'll have that to look back upon. As the Rugby League World Cup 2026 progresses, the work of performance analysts and sports scientists will continue behind the scenes, helping the teams prepare, adapt and give themselves the best possible opportunity to perform on the international stage.
The award celebrates the contribution of Carnegie School of Sport to the foundations community programmes, womens football academy and wider work supporting children and young people. Senior Lecturer, Dr Dan Bates works with the foundation on programmes including Unlocking Potential and Active Through Football. The collaboration helps the partners understand how initiatives are meeting their objectives, assess their impact and identify what is working. Dr Bates said: As academics and as researchers we have access to a whole range of current research and insights about what works and why in physical activity interventions and in promoting sport. But it's the foundation who are delivering it. It's the foundation who have the relationships and the contacts on the ground who are making the work happen. So for us, it's a fantastic opportunity to be able to share that knowledge that we have, but also adapt it and make it work in the context of the Leeds United Foundation's work as well. The collaboration also provides valuable opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world settings. By engaging with live projects and the people delivering them, students gain practical experience and insights that can support their future careers. Max Whitehead, a BSc (Hons) Applied Sport Studies in Football student, has been working with the foundation as part of his studies. He said:From a student perspective I think it's massive that we continue this partnership just because of the support and the opportunities that come with it. I wouldn't have had that opportunity to apply into real world environments. For example, the Unlocking Potential program. I feel like I'm so much more employable. Carnegie School of Sport also supports the Leeds United Womens Academy, providing access to university facilities and wider support to help young players develop both on and off the pitch. The partnership is mutually beneficial, with the foundations practical experience and local knowledge helping to inform research and teaching at Leeds Beckett. Real-world examples and resources from the programmes bring academic theory to life for students, connecting their studies with the challenges and opportunities facing communities across Leeds. The Leeds United Foundation recognised the teams contribution across a range of activities, including supporting its programmes, providing access to facilities and sharing research, data and insight to help inform its work. The award celebrates the shared commitment of Leeds Beckett University and Leeds United Foundation to creating opportunities through sport and making a positive difference in the city. Watch how our partnership with Leeds United Foundation is creating opportunities for students and making a difference across Leeds.
Students and colleagues formed a guard of honour for Sir Kevin at the stadium, marking a special moment in the challenge for the two-time Leeds Beckett graduate and Honorary Doctor of the university. Sir Kevin was joined on the trail by former Leeds Rhinos star Jamie Jones-Buchanan and football pundit and former England international Micah Richards, as the 7 in 7 team continued the fourth day of the Grand Finale. Sir Kevin began 7 in 7: The Grand Finale with his team in Hull on Sunday 27 September. Together, they are completing an ultra-marathon every day for seven consecutive days. The challenge will take the team to all 12 English Super League grounds before finishing at Old Trafford on Saturday 3 October, ahead of the Betfred Super League Grand Final. The grand finale marks a culmination of seven years of fundraising challenges, which have raised millions of pounds and brought national attention to MND, and the people and families affected by the disease. For the university, it is also an opportunity to celebrate a long-standing relationship with Sir Kevin that goes far beyond sponsorship. Over the years, colleagues from across the university have supported Sir Kevin and his team in a variety of ways, from sports science, performance testing and training guidance to route planning and practical support on the road. The university has also hosted events supporting Kevin's fundraising and the wider MND community. Pete Mackreth, Dean of the Carnegie School of Sport at Leeds Beckett University, is on the road with Sir Kevin and the team for the grand finale: "Being part of Sir Kevin's journey over the years has been an enormous privilege. We've seen first-hand the determination that goes into every challenge, but we've also seen something much bigger, the way he has brought people together around the MND community. "Leeds Beckett has been proud to support Kevin in many ways over the years, whether that's through the expertise of our sports scientists, helping with preparations and routes, or being there as part of the team on the road. "What has always driven everyone involved is the reason behind these challenges. Every mile is about people living with MND and their families. As we take on this final 7 in 7 challenge, that's very much at the front of our minds." Funds from the Grand Finale will be shared between charities supporting people affected by MND across the UK and Republic of Ireland, with the MND Association the main beneficiary. The impact of Kevin and the team's fundraising is already being felt in MND research and in creating more opportunities for people living with the disease to participate in clinical trials. Dr Mike Rogers, Director of Research Innovation at the MND Association, said:"Sir Kevin Sinfields 7 in 7 challenges really demonstrate what extraordinary teamwork and determination can achieve particularly when it comes to fighting a disease like MND. "The money Sir Kevin and the team has raised on behalf of the MND Association is now driving nine research projects and has helped us to establish our research nurse network, giving people with MND the opportunity to take part in clinical trials much more easily. "This is real progress which will continue to have a lasting impact on the work we do. More importantly, it offers real hope for a world free from MND. Thank you, Sir Kevin we couldnt be more grateful for your support." Each day of the Grand Finale is divided into 7km blocks. The challenge also includes the Extra Mile, giving members of the MND community the opportunity to join Kevin and his team to complete a mile together and ensuring that people affected by the disease remain at the heart of the challenge. Motor neurone disease is a fatal, rapidly progressing neurological disease. Six people are diagnosed with MND every day and six people die from the disease. There is currently no cure. MND attacks and damages the nerves that carry messages to the muscles. Within months, a person may lose their voice, movement and, ultimately, their ability to breathe. A third of people with MND die within a year of diagnosis and more than half within two years. The disease can affect people from all backgrounds and of all ages, although it is more prevalent in men and the risk increases with age. If you would like to support Sir Kevin Sinfield in his challenge, please view more information on how to donate.
Current scholarship athletes, alumni and athletes supported through the University's Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) and Leeds Talent Hub represented England, Scotland, Wales, Jamaica and the Isle of Man across gymnastics, athletics, netball, swimming, cycling and weightlifting. Leeds Beckett alumna and Honorary Graduate Emily Campbell successfully defended her Commonwealth title in the women's +86kg weightlifting, retaining her gold medal with a record-breaking 163kg clean and jerk. Having graduated from Leeds Beckett just two weeks before the Games, scholarship athlete Luke Whitehouse enjoyed a memorable campaign for Team England, claiming gold in the men's floor exercise, silver in the vault and helping England secure team silver in the men's artistic gymnastics competition. Leeds Beckett alumna Kadeena Cox added another Commonwealth medal to her collection with silver in the women's C4-5 kilo, producing a four-second personal best in front of a home crowd. Jade O'Dowda, supported through the Leeds Talent Hub, claimed silver in the heptathlon after an impressive all-round performance. Jamaica netball players and Leeds Beckett alumni Brie Grierson and Rhea Dixon helped their side to a silver medal after an outstanding tournament. Leeds Beckett alumnus David Mullarkey made history for the Isle of Man, securing bronze in the men's 10,000m to claim the nation's first-ever Commonwealth Games athletics medal. After being called into Team England from the reserve list, Leeds Beckett scholarship athlete Shanna-Kae Grant made her Commonwealth Games debut and helped England claim bronze in the women's artistic gymnastics team event. Several athletes also made their mark with memorable performances and milestone achievements. Scholarship athlete Harry Eyres impressed on his Commonwealth Games debut for the Isle of Man, qualifying for the men's all-around final. TASS-supported gymnasts Elliott Vernon and Henry Lewis represented Wales along with Scholarship athlete Connor Sullivan for Scotland in their first major international all-around competition, while Leeds Beckett alumnus Alex Botterill narrowly missed the podium with a fifth-place finish in the men's 800m final. Leeds Beckett is proud to support athletes at different stages of their sporting journeys through initiatives including its scholarship programme, Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) and Leeds Talent Hub. These programmes provide tailored support such as strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, nutrition, performance lifestyle guidance and access to world-class facilities, helping athletes balance the demands of elite sport alongside their studies and personal development. Congratulations to all the athletes who represented their nations in Glasgow and showcased their talent on the Commonwealth stage.
Playing at altitude in Mexico City's Azteca Stadium against a side that had lost just two of their previous 89 competitive internationals, England's task became even more difficult when Jarell Quansah was sent off. Yet rather than allowing the circumstances to overwhelm them, England responded with discipline, composure and belief. Dr Gareth Jowett, senior lecturer in Carnegie School of Sport, explains the psychology behind this: "The performance highlighted key principles of elite performance psychology. Instead of dwelling on factors they could not control, such as the altitude, hostile crowd or numerical disadvantage, England focused on their organisation, work rate and decision-making. By accepting the challenge rather than viewing it as a threat, they found solutions under intense pressure. "Jude Bellingham epitomised that mentality. After previous disappointment over his role under Thomas Tuchel, the midfielder responded with two goals and an outstanding all-round display, demonstrating the psychological flexibility to put setbacks behind him and focus entirely on the task at hand." While one victory guarantees nothing in tournament football, England's triumph over Mexico has provided the squad with something invaluable: proof that they can overcome adversity on one of the biggest stages. That belief could become one of their greatest strengths as the World Cup progresses.
When England run out at the Estadio Azteca, they won't just be facing Mexico, tricky opponents, and a raucous crowd, they will be facing the air itself. Sitting at 2,200 metres above sea level, the Azteca is one of the highest major stadiums used in world football, and that altitude changes the game and how it is played. Here's what's really going on, and what it could mean for England's performance. The weather won't be the problem Conditions at kick-off are forecast to warm, but much lower temperatures than England have been subjected to in recent matches. From a pure thermoregulation perspective, the heat isn't a major concern for this fixture. The real challenge isn't the temperature, it's the thin air. Why altitude matters: less oxygen, more problems At 2,200 metres, the partial pressure of oxygen is around 23% lower than at sea level, meaning there's roughly three quarters of the oxygen available for the body to use compared to sea level. That might not sound like much, but the knock-on effects run through almost every system in the body. Less oxygen crosses from the lungs into the bloodstream, and even less passes from the blood into working muscle. That means less oxygen is available to produce energy to fuel hard working muscles, as well as to recover between high intensity efforts. Using a pulse oximeter to measure blood oxygen saturation players might sit in the low 90%s at rest, a level that would normally prompt a check-up in a hospital setting, and it could drop into the mid-80s during intense passages of play. The practical result is a fall in VO2 max, the standard measure of maximal aerobic capacity, of around 13-14%. As the body compensates, lactate and hydrogen ions build up faster in the muscles, accelerating fatigue. Heart rate and breathing rate will run higher than for the same effort at sea level, even in players who are extremely fit. Crucially, top-end sprint speed itself isn't affected. Player's absolute pace over a short burst should be much the same, and thinner air offers slightly less resistance, so top speeds might even be a fraction quicker. What suffers is repeatability: recovery between sprints takes longer, so the fast, repeated bursts that make up so much of a modern match - press, recover, press again - become harder to sustain. It's not just the legs, it's the brain too One of the less obvious effects of altitude is on decision-making. The brain needs oxygen just as much as the muscles do, and during high-intensity exercise in low-oxygen conditions, there's effectively a competition between the two for the limited supply. The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain most responsible for decisions and judgement, is particularly sensitive to this. Research has shown that peripheral visual reaction time can slow too. None of this shows up as a single dramatic moment. Instead, it tends to appear as a gradual accumulation of small errors: a misplaced pass, a slightly mistimed tackle, a header not quite won, a delayed reaction to a loose ball. Individually small, but they compound over 90 minutes and could translate into more fouls, and less of the flair and creativity that decides tight games. England will need to be mindful of this and take extra care as fatigue builds as the match progresses. Can you prepare for this? The gold standard for coping with altitude is acclimatisation. This is achieved by spending days or weeks living or training at altitude (or in simulated altitude environments) beforehand, allowing the body to adapt to the lower levels of oxygen in the body. England's tournament fixture schedule makes it genuinely difficult to include this specific training, especially when preparing for matches in the heat, and not knowing whether a match in Mexico is going to take place until the previous round result. Arriving in Mexico only two days before the match offers little to no physiological benefit, but it is probably England's best strategy. It's also worth noting that players won't all be affected equally. There's considerable individual variability in how people respond to altitude, and few England players will have real match experience at this elevation, so the effects may only become clear once the game is underway - it may be worth watching for one or two players who visibly struggle more than their teammates. England's acclimatisation to the heat, which will have been developed through their time in the heat of the Americas, training and playing in high temperatures, may indirectly help them cope with the altitude. The specific stress caused by high body temperatures and the resulting adaptations can create increases in red blood cells and force muscular responses that can help the body deal with lower oxygen levels. The effects are less pronounced than specific altitude training, but the England team will hope that these adaptations are sufficient to negate most of the effects of altitude. Underlying fitness offers some protection. A player with a very high baseline VO2 max who loses 13-14% of it due to the effects of the altitude may still be operating at a level that's perfectly competitive; a less aerobically fit player starting from a lower baseline has less room to give. Mexico, by contrast, base much of their preparation near the Azteca and will be properly acclimatised, and this creates a home advantage that goes well beyond crowd noise. What it could mean tactically If these effects play out as expected, they could shape how England approach the match: Pressing may be harder to sustain:High-intensity pressing relies on repeated sprints and quick recovery - exactly what altitude blunts. England may need to sit slightly deeper or press in shorter, more selective bursts Quality over intensity:With running power reduced, accurate passing and clever, controlled build-up play may matter more than usual Set pieces and long balls could grow in importance:As they offer a way to create danger without needing sustained phases of high-intensity play Game management becomes key:Slowing the tempo and holding possession may help players find recovery windows between transitions The first half could be decisive:If fatigue builds progressively, England may look to make their impact early, before the effects of altitude compound in the second half Expect full use of substitutes:With fresh legs the bench may become a bigger tactical weapon than usual in the closing stages A note for fans travelling out It isn't just the players who'll feel it. Anyone visiting Mexico City, especially those arriving from sea level, is likely to notice the altitude almost immediately - climbing stairs, walking briskly, or even talking animatedly can leave you more breathless than expected. If that's you, the simple advice is to slow down, pace yourself, and stay calm, especially in the excitement of a match atmosphere. The altitude does place extra load on the heart, lungs, and circulatory system generally. Anyone with a pre-existing heart or lung conditions, or with anaemia, should seek medical advice before travelling. The bottom line None of these effects are dramatic on their own. No player will visibly collapse from a lack of oxygen. But football at altitude has a way of grinding teams down in small, cumulative ways: a yard of recovery lost here, a half-second of hesitation there, a pass or tackle just fractionally mistimed. For England, the challenge at the Azteca won't be one big obstacle to overcome. It will be a thousand small ones, all at once. But England are an incredibly skilful team with world-class players and great coaching and tactical knowledge. With careful use of these resources and their knowledge of the effects of altitude on their games, they will still be a force to be reckoned with on Monday.
One of the inaugural inductees to the Hall of Fame in 2025, Sir Kevin was formally presented with his award and reflected on the role Leeds Beckett has played throughout his career, from student and athlete to coach, fundraiser and one of the most respected figures in British sport. A Leeds Rhinos legend, former England captain and current coach, Sir Kevin was recently awarded a knighthood in the King's Birthday Honours for services to Rugby League, Rugby Union and the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) community. Speaking about his induction, Sir Kevin described the recognition as one of the most meaningful honours of his career: "It's probably the one I worked the most for, if I'm being honest." "It's a real honour. I spent eight years here studying, which is quite a lot. You just have to look at that wall and some of the names on it, it's a who's who. I'm delighted to be inducted. "I've got some great friends on there as well, some rugby league teammates who I've played with and spent some great time with. I loved my time here." Sir Kevin graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Sport Exercise Science in 2008 before returning to complete an MA in Sport Business in 2015. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Sports Science in 2019 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport. Reflecting on his time as a student, he spoke about balancing elite sport, family life and academic study: "I think the great thing was getting the balance right in my life. "When you come up to big games and you've got assignments that need to be in and exams, they were difficult moments and challenges, but I wouldn't have changed it. "I'm so proud of the fact that I stuck with it and got through it." In recent years, Leeds Beckett has proudly supported Sir Kevin's extraordinary fundraising efforts for the MND community. Inspired by his friendship with former Leeds Rhinos teammate, Leeds Beckett alumnus and fellow Honorary Graduate Rob Burrow CBE, Sir Kevin's challenges have raised millions of pounds for MND charities and transformed awareness of the disease. Many members of the Leeds Beckett community have played a role in supporting those challenges, something Sir Kevin was keen to recognise during his visit: "The university has given me some friends for life and I'm really proud about that. "We started out on this journey trying to raise a bit of money and awareness for a mate. The fact that a group of friends have come together to continue and fight and push on has been incredible, and some of those friendships were born here." Asked what message he hoped his Hall of Fame induction would send to current and future students, Sir Kevin highlighted the importance of character, teamwork and community: "To become a champion, you've got to be a champion at home and be a good person. There are so many life lessons I got from being here, but also understanding how important it is to be part of a team. I think it's a great university. The people it attracts want to help, want to be better and it's a great environment to be in." Peter Mackreth, Dean of the Carnegie School of Sport, said: "Kevin embodies everything the Leeds Beckett Sport Hall of Fame was created to celebrate. His achievements in rugby are extraordinary, but it is his leadership, humility and commitment to helping others that have had an even greater impact. Through his fundraising work, inspired by his friendship with Rob Burrow, he has shown how sport can be a powerful force for good. We are proud to recognise Kevin's outstanding contribution to sport and society through his induction into the Hall of Fame." The Leeds Beckett Sport Hall of Fame celebrates alumni, honorary graduates and sporting figures whose achievements, leadership and impact have left a lasting mark on sport and society. Sir Kevin's induction recognises not only one of rugby's most decorated careers, but also the values of friendship, resilience and service that continue to inspire people across the world.
Kevin, one of the most respected figures in British sport, has been recognised in the honours list and will become Sir Kevin Sinfield following his formal investiture for services to Rugby League, Rugby Union and the MND Community A longstanding member of the Leeds Beckett community, Kevin graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Sport Exercise Science in 2008 before returning to complete an MA in Sport Business in 2015. In 2019, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Sports Science by the university in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport. Kevin enjoyed an illustrious playing career with Leeds Rhinos, captaining the club to seven Super League titles, two Challenge Cup victories and three World Club Challenge successes. He represented both England and Great Britain and remains one of the most decorated players in rugby league history. Following his retirement from playing, Kevin moved into leadership and coaching roles across rugby league and rugby union, including positions with Leeds Rhinos, Leicester Tigers and England Rugby. In recent years, Kevin has become widely admired for his extraordinary fundraising efforts in support of the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) community. Inspired by his friendship with former Leeds Rhinos teammate and fellow Leeds Beckett alumnus Rob Burrow CBE, Kevin has undertaken a series of endurance challenges which have raised millions of pounds for MND charities, research and support services. Leeds Beckett has proudly supported a number of these initiatives, including hosting events at its Headingley Campus and working alongside Kevin, the Burrow family and Leeds Rhinos to raise awareness and support for the MND community. Kevin was also one of the inaugural inductees into the Leeds Beckett University Sport Hall of Fame in recognition of his exceptional achievements, leadership and impact both within and beyond sport. The Leeds Beckett community congratulates Kevin on this richly deserved honour.
A group of ten students from the university's Carnegie School of Sporttook on key operational roles during the showpiece rugby league games at Allegiant Stadium, supporting areas including media operations and talent movement. The opportunity was brokered by a former national rugby league player who now lectures in Sport Management at Leeds Beckett, helping connect students with organisers of the high-profile event. The Las Vegas showcase saw some of rugby league's biggest names from both hemispheres come together as the sport's culture and fanfare took over the famous strip. Throughout the week-long trip, the students contributed across a range of events. These included the headline Leeds Rhinos vs Hull Kingston Rovers Super League fixture and additional Super League matches. There was also a Rugby League 9s tournament featuring Hunslet RLFC and a schools' tournament. Third-year Sport Business Management student Patrick Wilkinson worked at the heart of the event throughout the week, including roles in media and talent movement. Patrick said: "The trip was full of learning, networking and unforgettable experiences. Every experience added a new layer of understanding about how major sporting events are delivered, promoted, and brought to life on a global stage. "Being part of the media and talent movement operation for such a major international event reinforced just how much coordination, precision, and teamwork goes into elite sport off the field. Seeing it up close was an invaluable learning experience and a brilliant way to end the trip. Im heading home motivated, inspired, and even more excited about whats next in sport." Sport Management lecturer James Webster praised the students' contribution throughout the week. He said: "What an extraordinary week it has been for the students. They were given the incredible opportunity to contribute to a major global sporting event in the worlds capital of sport. "A special mention must go to their outstanding contribution to the world-famous Fremont Street fan event, as well as their involvement on match day itself. "Our sincere thanks to the NRL team for making this truly unique and invaluable experience possible."
Yee, an Olympic triathlon champion and ad honoris graduate of Leeds Beckett, clocked 2:06:38 - the second-fasted marathon time ever recorded by a British runner, trailing only Mo Farah. Yee prepared for Valencia by training with the elite marathon runners - Team GB Olympians Phil Sesemann and Emile Cairess - and coaches based at LBU's Leeds Talent Hub. Phil was hot on Alex's heels, setting a new personal best of 2:07:11 - his second 2:07 marathon of the year. Emile - who finished fourth in last year's Olympic marathon and was himself the second fastet Brit until Alex's run on Sunday - was on pacing duties. Leeds Beckett's Head of Athletics Andy Henderson and physio support from James Wilkinson had played key roles in group's training block leading up to Valencia. This remarkable performance underscores what the Leeds Talent Hub does best: provide Olympic-calibre athletes, global contenders and emerging talent with world-class coaching, cutting-edge sport science and high-performance preparation at our Headingley campus. Yee's result was not achieved in isolation. Two other Talent Hub runners were among the top 7 British female finishers in Valencia, Katy Wood running 2:34:23 on her debut, and Sarah Potter with a personal best of 2:34:26. Head coach Andy Henderson said: "We're really pleased Alex recognised that Leeds Beckett is the place to come for a marathon training block. Our Talent Hub is home to many of the best marathon runners - add an athlete of Alex's calibre and the results in Valencia show how much it helps everyone."
The challenge, held on 4 and 5 November, saw the presenters take on a three-legged walk through two Yorkshire cities - with Gayle completing the Leeds route and Colson tackling the Bradford leg. In preparation, Gayle visited Leeds Becketts Headingley Campus to train at the Carnegie School of Sport, where she received guidance from Dr Cranswick and hands-on support from students, including sports massage to help her get ready for the event. The Leeds Beckett team then supported both presenters across the two challenge days, offering expertise in exercise therapy, motivation and injury-prevention strategies. BBC Radio presenter Gayle Lofthouse said: "It was an absolute joy to work with Ieuan and his students. I'm so grateful for their involvement. Not only did they help with my training program and provide practical support on the days, but they also got enthusiastically immersed in the challenge! They were great to work with, helpful, knowledgeable, fun and there were so many incredible highlights that we simply would not have had without them. They really went above and beyond what anyone would expect." Sport and Exercise Therapy student Kate Smith described the experience as a highlight of her time at Leeds Beckett: "Getting to be a part of the children in need 3-legged challenge was an incredible experience. The entire day was filled with pure joy and happiness as everyone came together as a team to keep the spirits high. I'm so grateful that the University presented me with the opportunity to be involved in this event for such a lovely cause." Dr Cranswick said the event was a valuable opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world, high-profile setting while contributing to an important charitable cause. The team's support helped ensure Gayle and Colson completed the demanding two-day challenge safely, all while raising vital funds for BBC Children in Need.
The players got a taste of the elite game, running through drills and small games with the full Kangaroos squad on the Headingley pitch which will be used for the final test of the series. Leeds Beckett enjoys strong links with the elite professional game. Partnerships with Leeds Rhinos and other teams provide a launchpad for many students to enjoy careers as players, coaches and support staff. Former NRL player James Webster, now lecturer in sport management at the university's Carnegie School of Sport, set up todays session. James said: "We're extremely grateful to the Australia team for welcoming our players. The fact we're able to offer student experiences like this is another example of how big a player we are in rugby league." Australia's Josh Addo-Carr, who lit up Headingley with two tries against Fiji in the 2022 world cup, said: "Today has been really good. Playing here last time was electric. Personally, I am enjoying every moment. I am a lot older than I was last time I was here, so I'm just counting my blessings. "The Leeds Beckett crew were good - they helped us prepare for this game on Saturday. They are a good bunch of boys. They've got a bright future." As well as being a day the Beckett players will never forget, it was also unique preparation for their own big match this evening. The first team take on Northumbria Uni as they bid to repeat last season's all-conquering, unbeaten campaign. Leeds Beckett winger Logan Caroline-Hines, who studies Applied Sports Studies in Rugby League and is currently on placement at Leeds Rhinos as a Performance Analyst, described playing alongside the Australian national team today at Headingley Stadium: "It was unreal, second to none. To play with one of the best teams in the world, with this calibre of players was such a great experience." Full back Tom Delaney, who also plays for Dewsbury Rams, added: "It was incredible, once in a lifetime experience. I didn't think I'd wake up this morning saying that I scored a hattrick against the Aussies and had a diving try in the corner over Josh Addo-Carr but now I can."