30/10/2025
After 30 years working in elite and professional sport, you’d think the best advice comes from name drops and big wins.
But on reflection, I think the most important lesson isn't about my journey.
Today, I had the privilege of delivering a session on 'Working in Professional Sport' to the fantastic 2nd Year Physio Students at St Mary's University.
Preparing for it had me reflecting on a 30-year career... the experiences, the relationships, the achievements.
Yet, the most vital piece of information I may have shared with the students wasn't any of that.
It was this: Find your 'Why' early.
Instead, I referred them to the work of and encouraged the students to use the principles of Ikigai to find that intersection of what they love, what they're good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for.
Why? Because skills can be taught, but purpose must be discovered. It’s the key to making intentional career choices that lead to genuine fulfillment, not just a job title.
Engaging with such an enthusiastic group of future physios only underlined my own 'Why': a deep passion for sharing knowledge and empowering the next generation.
A huge thank you to St Mary's University for the opportunity!
