In this episode, we unveil The Science for Sport Story with none other than its founder, Owen Walker. From his early days chasing football dreams to building the world’s go-to platform for sports science education, Owen shares the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that shaped Science for Sport. Discover how a failed footballer’s passion for sports science turned into a revolutionary resource used by professionals and students worldwide.

Join host Richard Graves as he dives into the vision behind Science for Sport, its impact on athletes and coaches, and the exciting future of sports science education. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a coach, or simply curious about the journey of turning an idea into a global phenomenon, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

** About Owen Walker**
Owen Walker is the founder of Science for Sport, a platform revolutionizing sports science education worldwide. Starting as an aspiring footballer, Owen’s passion for understanding performance and recovery led him to a career in sports science, including roles at Cardiff City FC and beyond. With a mission to make evidence-based knowledge accessible to all, Owen has turned Science for Sport into a trusted resource for professionals, students, and coaches globally. His journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of education.

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In this episode of the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Dave Hancock, a sports performance pioneer with a career spanning over three decades in professional sport. From the sidelines of Leeds United to the championship-winning New York Knicks and beyond, Dave shares incredible insights into the evolution of sports science, athlete care, and the role of data and AI in revolutionising performance.

Discover how today’s athletes are transforming their careers with personalised performance teams, the impact of cutting-edge technologies like AI on injury prevention, and the challenges practitioners face in adapting to the ever-increasing demands of elite sport.

Whether you're a sports scientist, strength and conditioning coach, or simply a fan fascinated by what happens behind the scenes, this episode offers unparalleled access to the world of elite athlete management and cutting-edge sports science. Don’t miss this conversation filled with practical insights, personal anecdotes, and a look at where the future of sports science is headed.

** About Dave Hancock**
Dave Hancock is a distinguished Performance Director, Chartered Physiotherapist, and Strength Coach with nearly 30 years of experience across professional sports in both Europe and the USA. His career includes pivotal roles such as Head Physiotherapist at Leeds United FC and Chelsea FC, where he contributed to Premier League and FA Cup successes. Notably, Dave became the first British Performance Director in the NBA, serving with the New York Knicks. He has also been part of the English National Team's medical staff during the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 European Championships. Currently, Dave is the CEO of Apollo V2, a sports software company that aids teams and athletes in performance enhancement and injury prevention.

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How do elite athletes handle pressure and perform at their peak when it matters most? In this episode, host Richard Graves sits down with renowned sports psychologist Dr. Haley Perlus to uncover the secrets behind mastering the mental game.

In This Episode, Discover:

• The surprising story that inspired Dr. Perlus’ career in sports psychology.
• How to turn pressure into your greatest advantage.
• Practical strategies to stay calm and focused under stress.
• Why “the best athlete is the best recoverer.”
• How boredom and stillness can unlock brilliance.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, or someone looking to level up your mindset, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive under pressure in sports and life.

** About Dr Haley Perlus**
Dr. Haley Perlus is a distinguished sport and performance psychologist with a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Drawing from her background as an elite alpine ski racer, coach, fitness professional, and entrepreneur, she provides clients with mental toughness tools to achieve peak performance. Dr. Perlus has collaborated with top athletes, Fortune 100 executives, and global brands to overcome mental barriers and attain tailored results. She is a professor at the University of Colorado, and author of several books, including "The Ultimate Achievement Journal" and "The Inside Drive." Her insights have been featured in publications such as Thrive Magazine, Fitness Magazine, and IDEA Fitness Journal

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In this must-listen episode of the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Ajmal Shahzad—World T20 champion, fast-bowling coach, and cricket trailblazer. Ajmal shares his journey from making history as Yorkshire's first Asian-born player to becoming a sought-after coach in the modern game.

Discover:

• The advice legendary all-rounder Imran Khan gave him that changed his game.
• How Ajmal brought cricket back to Pakistan with an historic MCC tour.
• His philosophy on developing fast bowlers in today’s game.
• The challenges and triumphs of transitioning from player to coach.

Ajmal’s honest reflections on authenticity, leadership, and learning from failure will leave you inspired. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or cricket fan, this episode is packed with insights to help you elevate your game.

** About Ajmal Shahzad**
Ajmal Shahzad is a former professional cricketer and World T20 champion who represented five counties and England at the international level. Breaking barriers as Yorkshire's first Asian-born player, Ajmal transitioned into coaching after a successful playing career. He is now the lead bowling coach at Derbyshire and has worked with elite teams like the Trent Rockets. Renowned for his innovative approach and leadership, Ajmal continues to inspire the next generation of cricketers while shaping the future of fast bowling.

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What does it take to lead in the high-pressure world of professional football? Ross Burbeary, Head of Performance at Huddersfield Town, shares his incredible journey from martial arts and ice hockey to shaping culture and optimising performance in football. In this episode, Ross reveals the secrets behind great leadership, why 'chameleons' thrive, and how to build a winning culture in any organisation. Plus, discover how Ross and his team raised over £1 million for prostate cancer through the inspiring initiative, Prostate United. Packed with insights, and leadership lessons, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports, performance, and making a difference!

About Ross Burbeary
Ross Burbeary is an accomplished sports performance professional with over a decade of experience in elite football and other sports. He began his career at Sheffield Wednesday, working as a Strength and Conditioning Coach in their academy, before taking on roles at clubs including Doncaster Rovers, Nottingham Forest, Rotherham United, Lincoln City, and Derby County. His expertise spans strength and conditioning, sports science, and fostering high-performance cultures.

Currently the Head of Performance at Huddersfield Town Football Club, Ross is passionate about optimising performance and driving culture change. Beyond football, he co-founded Prostate United, an initiative that has raised over £1 million for Prostate Cancer UK, uniting participants from clubs across the globe. With experience in the NHL and a dedication to leadership, Ross continues to be a transformative figure in sports performance.

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🎙️ Mastering Confidence: Secrets of Elite Performance

What separates elite performers from the rest? How can you cultivate confidence, resilience, and the mindset to excel under pressure? This week, Richard Graves sits down with Dr. Chris Shambrook, former Team GB rowing psychologist and Performance Director at Planet K2, to uncover the secrets behind high-level success.

From working with Olympic champions like Steve Redgrave to applying psychology in the business world, Dr. Shambrook shares fascinating insights into building confidence, handling egos, and thriving in high-stakes environments. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or professional looking to unlock your full potential, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom you don’t want to miss.

👉 Tune in and discover how to become the consistent factor in a chaotic world.

About Dr. Chris Shambrook
Dr. Chris Shambrook is a distinguished performance psychologist with over 25 years of experience, including five Olympic Games with Team GB's rowing team. As Group Performance Director at PlanetK2, he translates elite sports insights into practical strategies for business leaders and teams. An accomplished speaker and author, Chris has co-authored three books and holds an honorary professorship from Staffordshire University

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Inside the NFL's Concussion Protocols: Dr. Allen Sills on Player Safety

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Allen Sills, Chief Medical Officer of the NFL, to the Science for Sport Podcast. In a game renowned for its intensity, how does the league ensure player safety on and off the field? Dr. Sills pulls back the curtain on cutting-edge concussion protocols, game-changing safety innovations, and the evolution of health measures that protect athletes at every level.

From independent spotters stopping the game to the millions invested in research and equipment, discover the science and strategy reshaping one of the world’s most physically demanding sports. Dr. Sills also shares exclusive insights on the future of player safety, collaboration with global sports leagues, and how the NFL is setting new standards for health in elite sports.

Whether you’re an NFL fan, a sports scientist, or someone fascinated by the intersection of medicine and performance, this episode is packed with revelations you can’t miss.

Tune in now and join the conversation about the evolving science of saving lives in sport.

About Dr Allen Sills
Dr. Allen Sills is the NFL's Chief Medical Officer, appointed in March 2017 as the league's first CMO. A neurosurgeon specializing in athlete care, he is also a Professor of Neurological Surgery and Co-Director of the Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center. Dr. Sills collaborates with team medical staffs, the NFL Players Association, and medical experts to enhance player health and safety through rule changes, equipment evolution, and injury reduction plans. He led the NFL's COVID-19 response and spearheaded the league's Injury Reduction Plan, achieving a 24% decrease in reported concussions in 2018. An active researcher with over 170 scientific publications, Dr. Sills is a member of the Concussion in Sport Group, setting international concussion standards.

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This week on the Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves dives into the world of Rugby League with two seasoned professionals, Scott Taylor and Ben Jones-Bishop. Between them, they boast over 30 years of experience, 250 tries, and a lifetime of lessons from the pitch.

Scott reflects on his transition from a 14-year career—highlighted by Grand Final wins and international caps—to taking the reins as head coach of the newly formed Goole Vikings. Meanwhile, Ben shares the secrets behind his longevity, the challenges of balancing professional sport with medical setbacks, and the pride of representing Jamaica in their first Rugby League World Cup.

Together, they explore the evolution of rugby league: from advancements in player welfare and GPS technology to managing the brutal physicality of the modern game. With candid insights into life on and off the field, including the sacrifices and strategies for recovery, this episode is a must-listen for sports enthusiasts and aspiring athletes alike.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation about resilience, coaching, and the future of rugby league. Listen now!

About Ben Jones-Bishop
Ben Jones-Bishop is a dynamic rugby league star known for his electrifying speed and versatility. A two-time Super League champion with Leeds Rhinos, he’s dazzled fans at clubs like Salford, Wakefield, and Sheffield Eagles. Internationally, he made history scoring Jamaica’s first-ever try in a Rugby League World Cup. Overcoming challenges on and off the field, Ben continues to inspire with his resilience and passion for the game.

Instagram: @bjonesbishop

About Scott Taylor
Scott Taylor is a powerhouse of rugby league, known for his stellar career with Hull FC, Wigan Warriors, and Hull Kingston Rovers. A three-time Challenge Cup winner and Super League champion, he also represented England on the world stage. Now retired, Scott has taken on a new challenge as head coach of the Goole Vikings, bringing his experience and passion to the next generation of players.

Instagram: @scotttagtaylor

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Episode 242:
In this week’s episode of the Science for Sport podcast, Richard Graves sits down with former professional cricketer Jack Brooks, whose 15-year career is a testament to resilience, hard work, and a love for the game. Jack shares his unconventional journey to becoming a professional at 24, breaking into the county circuit after starting in village cricket.

From the pressures of leading Yorkshire’s bowling attack during back-to-back County Championship wins to grappling with self-doubt despite his success, Jack provides a refreshingly honest look at life on and off the pitch. He reflects on the influence of legendary coaches like Jason Gillespie, the camaraderie of dressing rooms, and the reality of managing a cricket career while planning for life after sport.

Whether you're a budding cricketer, a sports enthusiast, or curious about the psychology behind elite performance, Jack’s story is one of grit, adaptability, and a pure passion for the game. Don’t miss his advice for young athletes and insights on transitioning into coaching at one of the country’s most storied clubs.

This is an episode packed with inspiration, laughs, and lessons from a man who made every moment on the field—and beyond—count.

About Jack
Jack Brooks is a former professional cricketer renowned for his bowling and dynamic presence on the field. Affectionately nicknamed "The Headband Warrior" for his distinctive headgear, Brooks began his cricketing journey in village cricket before advancing through Minor County Oxfordshire and Surrey's second XI. He secured a professional contract with Northamptonshire in 2008, marking his first-class debut against the touring Australians in 2009. Brooks later joined Yorkshire in 2012, playing a pivotal role in their consecutive County Championship victories in 2014 and 2015. In 2018, he signed with Somerset, contributing to their T20 Blast triumph in 2023. Over his 15-year career, Brooks amassed over 650 wickets across all formats and achieved a first-class century. Transitioning from player to mentor, he now focuses on coaching, aiming to impart his extensive experience to aspiring cricketers.

Instagram: @brooksyferret
Linkedin: Jack Brooks

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Episode 241
In this week's Science for Sport podcast, host Richard Graves dives into the world of data analysis in professional football with two brilliant guests—Arian Forouhandeh, Physical Performance Data Lead at Wolves, and Ryan White, Sports Science Analyst at Crystal Palace. Arian and Ryan reveal how data is transforming the game, sharing insights from their own work on injury prevention, player performance, and optimising every match. They also introduce Science for Sport’s new Certified Sports Data Analyst course, a groundbreaking programme they helped create to equip the next generation of sports scientists with practical skills. If you're interested in the future of sports science or want to understand how data can make a real difference on and off the field, this is an episode not to miss!

About Arian
Arian Forouhandeh is the Physical Performance Data Lead at Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club, where he focuses on data-driven strategies to enhance player performance and prevent injuries. His academic background includes a Master's degree in Exercise Physiology, a Bachelor's in Sport and Exercise Science, and a professional certificate in Data Science. Arian is also pursuing a professional doctorate aimed at developing integrated models for injury prevention in professional football. His previous roles encompass performance analysis internships at Nottingham Forest FC, as well as sports science data analysis positions with USA Hockey and Loughborough Hockey.

Instagram: @datainsport
Linkedin: Arian Forouhandeh

About Ryan
Ryan White is the Sports Science Analyst for the first team at Crystal Palace Football Club, where he delivers daily insights and communicates data across multiple departments, contributing to the club's integrated research strategy. He is nearing the completion of his PhD, which has provided him with a strong academic foundation in sports science and data analytics. Prior to his current role, Ryan served as a Sports Scientist at Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire Carnegie

Instagram: @ryan_white_93
LinkedIn: Ryan White

To find out more about the Certified Sports Data Analyst https://bit.ly/certifiedsportsdataanalyst

-

In episode 240, Matt Solomon former host of the Science for Sport Podcat, joins us.

Specifically you will learn:

• Matt's favourite episodes
• Lessons learned from the podcast
• Lessons from Paralympic S&C

About Matt

"Matt Solomon is a Strength and Conditioning Coach and Sport Scientist, having started his career in football working in both the Netherlands and UAE, he transitioned to Olympic and Paralympic sports, forging a nice in the latter. He worked for 7 years at Sport Centrum Papendal with the Dutch Olympic Team leading the physical development for a number of Paralympic programs. Through this he was able to contribute to a number of success stories across European, World and Paralympic levels. Recently Matt was at the Paralympic games as S&C coach for the Dutch Paralympic Team, however his next step is back in to the football world, where he has started as 1st Team Physical Development Coach at Ajax.

In addition to this he has been a contributor to Science for Sport for 7 years, producing articles, infographics and of course the Science for Sport Podcast, which celebrates it's 240th episode. He is also a course provider for the ASCA in the Netherlands and delivers guest lectures at Universities."

Instagram: @mattsolomonstrength
Linkedin: Matt Solomon

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