Can you explain your role within the team?
Primarily, I provide the performance psychology support for the Junior & Youth squads (including sailors/coaches/parents). I also deliver support to the Olympic Development Squads, working within the Sport Science & Medicine team.
What’s your sailing background?
My background in sailing stems from an applied practitioners stand point, rather than an ‘ex-sailor’! Since October 2009 I’ve worked fulltime in the sport, working closely with the coaches/sailors/managers, to know where thoughts & behaviors either interfere or enhance sailing performance. My own athletic background was in swimming.
How did you get involved with the team?
Whilst working in a multi-sport role at the English Institute of Sport (in Sheffield) I started worked remotely with the team (updating squad resources), and after an invite to a training camp in Palma was offered a full time position with the team. In taking the role, I relocated to the sunny south coast to be fully immersed in the world of sailing!
Can you explain what a normal day as sport psychologist involves?
The days vary depending on whether there is a training camp on during the week, or whether I am supporting a squad weekend. A typical day might involve meeting with a sailor or coach to discuss areas we are working on, or meeting with managers and members of the Sport Science & Medicine Team to plan future service delivery. During the summer, I also support squads during their National & International regattas.
If you weren’t in this role what else would you be?
I am actually employed by the English Institute of Sport (EIS), so I presume if I wasn’t working for sailing, I would be in another post within high performance sport. I used to work for a professional sport before going fulltime with sailing so I might even be working outside the EIS umbrella.
What’s your greatest fear or phobia?
Clowns!! (I was always the one crying at a circus!), & probably letting people down.
What would you love to do but never have the time or money for it?
After finishing my degree I went on to complete my Masters and start my PhD, therefore I never took time out to do any travelling. If I had more time (& money!) I would definitely jet off & backpack around the World!!
What’s your worst habit?
Erm..my inability to say no!
Name 3 things that are always in your shopping trolley?
Sushi, capri sun & a raspberry muller corner!
What was the last book you read?
Nudge by Richard Thaler & Cass Sunstein