Sport Science Support for Rugby Preseason Testing

Introduction

Preseason is a crucial time in any athlete’s calendar. It’s when the foundation for physical performance is built, key areas for improvement are identified, and strategies for success are put into action.

This year, academics from our BSc Sport Performance and Coaching degree programme provided preseason testing support for Castleford Tigers Rugby League Academy. Utilising advanced equipment to analyse factors like force production during jumps and to test hamstring strength, our team will provide data to help shape the preparation for elite performance.

The Importance of Preseason

Preseason testing ensures that athletes are ready to meet the physical demands of their sport. It allows coaches and sport scientists to assess critical aspects like strength, power, flexibility, and injury risk, helping coaches to fine-tune their training plans.

With Castleford Tigers, our academic team used the VALD ForceDecks to analyse force production during jumps and the NordBord to assess hamstring strength.—key measures to reduce the risk of common injuries in rugby league. By partnering with elite teams, we ensure our methods are grounded in real-world applications, laying the groundwork for even greater future collaboration.

Using Elite Equipment

The use of elite technology like the VALD ForceDecks and NordBord plays a pivotal role in providing high-quality support to professional athletes. These tools are common in top-tier sports and allow for precise performance analysis.

The VALD ForceDecks, for instance, measure vertical jump performance, asymmetry, and other key metrics, providing vital information for injury prevention and performance optimisation. The NordBord, which assesses eccentric hamstring strength, helps mitigate the risk of muscle strains.

While our academics have been leading this process, we’re keen to involve our students in similar hands-on experiences in the future, giving them the opportunity to apply their knowledge in elite settings.

Promoting Higher Technical Qualification in Community Coaching

Our engagement with Castleford Tigers not only focused on preseason testing but also offered a chance to discuss our new Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Community Coaching for England with academy scholars. We see this as a vital pathway for athletes who wish to remain connected to sport after their playing careers, enabling them to develop coaching skills and qualifications that can have a real impact on their communities.

Collaboration allowed us to promote CU Scarborough as a destination for elite young athletes, showcasing the unique educational opportunities we provide for those looking to combine academic and athletic excellence.

Elite Sport Experience

Gaining experience in elite sporting environments is invaluable for those aspiring to work in sport performance. While our academic staff have led this initiative so far, this partnership with Castleford Tigers is a promising opportunity for future student involvement. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge in high-performance environments is a cornerstone of our BSc Sport Performance and Coaching programme. Through these types of collaborations, we aim to give our students practical experience in areas such as strength and conditioning, performance analysis, and injury prevention, enhancing their development and preparing them for careers in elite sport.

Theory in Practice

One of the most rewarding aspects of our programme is seeing how academic theory translates into practical application. Whether studying biomechanics, physiology, or coaching, our academic staff have demonstrated how these concepts can be applied in elite sport.

While the testing this year was conducted by our academics, we aim to involve students in similar projects in the future. These experiences will help them develop the hands-on skills needed to contribute to high-performance sport. This blend of academic and practical experience is what sets our Sport Performance and Coaching degree course apart and prepares our students for careers in elite sport and coaching.

As sport scientists, the ability to apply what we’ve learnt in real-world environments is crucial. This is how we aim to build strong relationships with elite teams. The opportunity to promote our HTQ in Community Coaching for England and CU Scarborough to elite young athletes is an exciting step forward.

How you can get involved?

If you’re passionate about working in elite sport and want the opportunity to apply your knowledge in practical settings, the BSc Sport Performance and Coaching programme is perfect for you. Join us at our next open event, here you can learn more about the course and the exciting opportunities it offers. To find out more, contact Andrew Davis (ae2868@coventry.ac.uk) or visit our website for details on how to apply.