Posted: 13 June 2025
The Sport Exercise, Health Science, PE and Coaching faculty at University Campus Doncaster (UCDon) proudly hosted its annual Poster Conference on Monday 9th June at Castle Park, home of Doncaster Knights RFU. This inspiring event showcased the innovative research and some of the academic achievements of final-year students while strengthening vital partnerships within the sport and health sectors.
Students from Sport, Health, Exercise Science, Physical Education, and Coaching programmes presented a diverse range of applied research projects tackling real-world challenges, from enhancing athletic performance and injury prevention to promoting community health and wellbeing.
The conference drew an enthusiastic and supportive audience, including representatives from the British Triathlon Federation, Club Doncaster Sports College, Doncaster Rovers FC and Doncaster Knights RFU, all eager to engage with emerging professionals and explore future collaborations.
Josh Wroot, Programme Leader of the BSc (Hons) Sport, Health and Exercise Science, including the High Performance Centre (HPC), highlighted the significance of the event, stating: “This year’s conference not only showcased the depth and innovation of our students’ work but also demonstrated the growing strength of our relationships with local and national organisations. These connections provide invaluable opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, enhancing both their academic and professional development.”
Recognising student achievements
A highlight of the event was the student awards ceremony, which celebrated outstanding academic progress and leadership, recipients included:
- Sport, Health and Exercise Science Outstanding Progress Award: Oliver Turnbull
- Sport, Health and Exercise Science Valedictorian: Sophia Tyler
- Physical Education and Sports Coaching Valedictorian: Kieran Edgson
- Physical Education and Sports Coaching Progress Award: Rio Allen
“These awards recognise not only academic excellence but also the dedication, resilience, and personal growth of our students. Each challenge they’ve tackled and opportunity they’ve embraced has shaped them into confident and capable professionals. We are immensely proud and excited for all they will achieve in the future,” said Adam Lloyd, Programme Lead for the BA (Hons) Physical Education and Sports Coaching.
Launching the High Performance Network (HPN)
The conference also marked the launch of the High Performance Network (HPN), a dynamic initiative connecting professionals across sport, health, and education through CPD events, research collaborations and knowledge exchange.
Additionally, it also gave programme staff and current Level 4 and 5 students the opportunity to engage in round-table discussions with industry experts, sparking insightful conversations and forging new research partnerships for the coming academic year.
Mark Ellames, Programme Leader for BSc (Hons) Sport Exercise and Health Science (Distance Learning) Top Up, emphasised the institution’s dedication to fostering talent and industry engagement, stating: “At UCDon and within the HPC, we are committed to blending exceptional talent with strong industry connections. Through collaboration with experts in the field, we create exciting opportunities for innovation, real-world impact, and career development. Our approach ensures that students gain not only academic knowledge but also practical experience that prepares them for success in their chosen careers.”
For more information about the High Performance Centre or to discover more about High Performance Network partnerships, click here
