Meet the team

Director of Health, Wellbeing and Sport

Prior to becoming Director of Sport in 2014, Alison had worked for a number of organisations within the leisure sector, extensively with the ASA (Amateur Swimming Association) since 2002, becoming Regional Director in 2004 and then Divisional Business Manager of the South and West Region in April 2013. Alison has been involved in managing national programmes of the NGB and overseeing strategic delivery across the south of the Country.

As Director of Sport, Alison leads the University of Exeter Sport team, overseeing each department and working closely with the directors and assistant directors of each area.

Email: A.Davidson2@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 723595

Head of Performance

Charlotte leads on all aspects of Performance Sport at the University including the Sport Scholarship Scheme and individual Performance Sport Programmes.

Charlotte graduated from the University of Exeter with a BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, before obtaining an MSc in Sport Psychology from UWIC in 2004. She holds an interest in the wellbeing and lifestyle management of elite sportsmen and women, and in particular the dual-career demands of the student-athlete and holds a Level 3 qualification in Talented Athlete Lifestyle Support (TALS) a Foundation Certificate in Counselling Psychology and is a Mental Health First Aider.

Email: c.r.hale@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 722294

Head of Performance

Charlotte leads on all aspects of Performance Sport at the University including the Sport Scholarship Scheme and individual Performance Sport Programmes.

Charlotte graduated from the University of Exeter with a BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science, before obtaining an MSc in Sport Psychology from UWIC in 2004. She holds an interest in the wellbeing and lifestyle management of elite sportsmen and women, and in particular the dual-career demands of the student-athlete and holds a Level 3 qualification in Talented Athlete Lifestyle Support (TALS) a Foundation Certificate in Counselling Psychology and is a Mental Health First Aider.

Email: c.r.hale@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 722294

Senior Sports Operations Manager

Paul has worked in the sport and leisure industry for over 30 years in a variety organisations with a vast array of facilities. Paul leads the 'Operations Team' here in Sport, managing a wide range of facilities, Business and Marketing.

Email: p.kirby2@exeter.ac.uk 

Phone: 07866138505

Senior Sports Operations Manager

Paul has worked in the sport and leisure industry for over 30 years in a variety organisations with a vast array of facilities. Paul leads the 'Operations Team' here in Sport, managing a wide range of facilities, Business and Marketing.

Email: p.kirby2@exeter.ac.uk 

Phone: 07866138505

Sports President - Student Expert

Chloe graduated from Exeter in 2024 with a BA in History. By collaborating with the AU and all 52 clubs Chloe is working towards creating a more inclusive and accessible Exeter sport. As well as this, Chloe wants to promote visibility across all clubs, looking to get more students involved in sport, leading participation campaigns, and ensuring there are sporting opportunities for everyone.

Throughout her time at Exeter Chloe has been heavily involved with the women’s football club, club captaining them in her final year. Additionally, Chloe has been involved in the set up of disability football sessions at the university, and plans to continue in initiatives and projects of a similar nature.

Email: aupresident@exeter.ac.uk

Sports Development Manager - Club Expert

Steve graduated from the University of Bath in 2016 with a First-class Hons in Sport and Social Sciences. If you need any support in the development and growth of activities and programmes within our University of Exeter sport programme, then Steve is your man. Steve also mentors a selection of the University's Sports scholars and Bursars and offers support to enhance their student athlete holistic performance.

Steve has a passion for inclusivity in sport and has worked closely with the F.A. on his dissertation ‘British Football: a qualitative study into the under-representation of British Asians in the ‘beautiful game’ and more recently became a Stonewall Trans Ally.

Outside of work, Steve enjoys Cycling, Running and Golf as well as supporting Newcastle United.

Email: s.brown4@exeter.ac.uk or for general enquires auadmin@exeter.ac.uk

Sports Participation Officer - Participation Expert

Lauren joined The University of Exeter in September 2018 and is primarily responsible for the development of our social sport programme of events. Lauren works to develop an activity and movement timetable of bespoke events to engage with students outside of conventional sporting activity and those already utilising the gym. Lauren has worked within the Leisure Industry for over 13 years, previously as a Personal Trainer and Leisure Supervisor, spending a year in Australia working in Fitness First on Bondi Beach. Lauren has most recently spent almost 5 years with Active Devon, tackling inactivity across Devon and working alongside National Campaigns such as This Girl Can.

Email: l.e.rowe@exeter.ac.uk

Social Sports Coordinator

Varsha Graduated from the University of Manchester in 2022 with an honour’s degree in Social Sciences. Since Graduating she has qualified as a PE teacher after completing her PGCE at the University of Exeter in 2023.

Throughout her time in Exeter, she enjoyed being a member of the women’s football club, attending dance sessions and fitness classes. Outside of University, she enjoys travelling, cycling, participating in football, as well as supporting Arsenal.

As a Social Sports Coordinator, she will be responsible for getting students to participate in sports whether it is competitive or for fun. Having previously organised bocce tournaments for disabled children, sports days, and athletic events for high performing athletes, this year she wants to continue her passion for helping clubs to develop.

She aims to get as many students involved in pitch up and play sessions whether it is an evening social run, learning how to coach disability football or even just trying out a new sport. While also offering an opportunity for students to partake in any of our social sports leagues. There is something for everyone!

Email: socialsport@exeter.ac.uk

BUCS Co-ordinator (Athletic Union) - BUCS Expert

After working in Mental Health and supporting Young adults with learning difficulties, Vicky has moved across to the University of Exeter to follow her passion for the sport.

Vicky has a keen following of all sports, making her role at Exeter perfect. Her role involves overseeing all the BUCS teams for BUCS Wednesday, making sure all the logistics are completed which includes transport, fixtures, officials, and hotel stays. Safe to say she doesn't stop!

Vicky is also a keen Netball player and coach. Having played at Regional level 1, Vicky now enjoys coaching teams from Juniors to seniors. She is currently the secretary for our local league as well Exeter Netball Club. As well as this, Vicky also team manages an NPL franchise for U21. When she is not coaching or facilitating, Vicky really enjoys cooking and travelling.

Email: aubucs@exeter.ac.uk

Administrations Assistant (Athletics Union)

Phillip joined the University in 2017 working for the finance systems team initially for 6 months until the Technology 1 system was brought in place. As he showed willingness and passion, Phillip was trained on the T1 system to work on the finance helpdesk, training staff, students and academics. After being in the role for 3 years, he then moved on to the apprenticeship team and the Student Immigration services team. Since September 2022, Phillip has been a part of the AU team, assisting clubs and staff with all things finance. 

Phillip has always had a keen interest in finance since completing his AAT (accountancy course) in 2014 and follows many different sports in his spare time.

Email: aufinance@exeter.ac.uk

BUCS Expert Sports Welfare Consultant

Supporting the wellbeing of the students at Exeter is key and in sport that extends beyond just physical wellbeing. Anna works part time within the Student Sport Team supporting the development of workshops and resources; working with the club committee’s welfare officers and providing welfare support for students involved in any kind of physical activity.  She also delivers some fitness classes in the Russell Seal Fitness Centre.

For students who feel they would benefit from welfare support, they can speak to a member of staff or their Welfare Officer who will signpost them or refer them to Anna for additional support.

Wellbeing Drop In: Wellbeing services

Phone: 01392 724381

Business Support Officer - Sports Bookings

Karen joined the team in November 2022, bringing a wealth of front-line experience.

Email: sportsbookings@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 722255

Customer Service Advisor

Vanessa is an experienced CSA having worked at the University Sports Park for a number of years. Prior to joining the CSA team Vanessa worked in the gym industry and as a fitness instructor.

Email: exetersport@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392724452 (Sports Park reception)

Customer Service Advisor

Jase is part of the CSA team, working specific hours at the Sports Park, mainly during the University Term times. Prior to joining the University of Exeter Sports Park team in 2017, Jason reskilled as a personal trainer and went on to become a studio instructor for Les Mills teaching Body Combat & Body Pump for the University and other fitness centres across Devon.

Email: exetersport@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392724452 (Sports Park reception)

Customer Service Advisor

James is part of the Sports Park CSA team, working specific early morning shifts during University term-times.

Email: exetersport@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392724452 (Sports Park reception)

Customer Service Advisor

Sue is part of the Sports Park CSA team, working specific term-time shifts. Sue has been working at the Sports Park since the RS Gym opened in 2013 and has previously worked in the leisure industry and is committed to providing a positive customer experience to all.

Email: exetersport@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392724452 (Sports Park reception)

LTA Coach Development Centre and Tournament Co-ordinator

Ann coordinates all our Coach Education courses and Tennis competitions at the Centre. She is an LTA DBS verifier and also our Welfare officer. Ann has a wealth of tennis knowledge having worked for the LTA for 8 years as Cornwall’s Country administrator. Over the years she has forged a great rapport with colleagues and friends within the tennis world. 

Email: a.williams5@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 07944317547

University Tennis Coordinator

Katie holds an interest in developing tennis opportunities for a range of people and levels at the University. She supports the AU Tennis Club, committee and student coaches.

If you would like to know more about the Student Club and BUCS programme, including coaching and workforce opportunities, and the Community Programme, including adult and children's tennis, please contact Katie on the email below.

Email: K.millar2@exeter.ac.uk

Tutor

Lorraine is an LTA Level 5 Performance Coach and also a highly experienced LTA Master Coach Education Tutor and has been tutoring for the LTA for over twenty years at all levels.

She has also been a tennis coach for over 30 years and was the head coach at the East Gloucestershire Tennis Club for 19 of them where she ran the very successful Lorraine Ristic School of Tennis before moving to Painswick Lawn Tennis Club where she established the Painswick Tennis Academy. There she produced players of all levels including most notably Alicia Barnett. She maintains very passionately that it is important to coach and teach our wonderful game alongside tutoring as there is always still so much to learn and it is this on court work that keeps her fresh and open to new ideas.

Prior to her coaching and coach education Lorraine played tennis professionally from the age of 21 and retired at 26 but continued to play to a high level since then and has represented Great Britain at all age groups in the Seniors World Team Championships from 35 to 55.

Tutor

Isla is a Coach Education Tutor and Assessor and has worked in Tennis & Fitness for over 20 years. Soon after qualifying as a tutor she became a Cardio Tennis Global Trainer and has recently certified as one of 3 Racquet Fit practitioners in the UK (tennis specific screening system).

As a tutor Isla has been involved in many exciting projects and opportunities including delivering qualifications 1, 2 and 3, Tennis For Kids campaigns, LTA coach forums, LTA Youth trainings days and webinars and Ball Kid training for the ATP Finals. She has also written Yogi Tennis and more recently been commissioned to contribute her knowledge towards the LTA coach education pathway. Over the years Isla has also presented at both the LTA National Coaches Conference and the Devon and Cornwall Coaches Conference.

Alongside this Isla also works for Les Mills (World leading Group Fitness organisation) as an Elite instructor, Assessor and Internal Quality Assurer.

Isla has a huge passion for yoga and is a qualified teacher in 4 different styles. Her main interest lies within the benefits of yoga for athletes and coaches alike.

When Isla’s not on the tennis court she will be spending time with her family and husky. Most likely on the beach and if the conditions are good, on her SUP.

Tutor

Ashley is an LTA Senior Performance Coach, currently running a coaching programme at The Avenue Lawn Tennis Club in Havant. Since playing tennis full time and competing on the British Tour Circuit and in Junior ITF events, Ashley has been a coach for over 15 years. He has taken players from the age of 5 to become National Champions and has worked with players of every age and stage including National VI tennis players.

In 2010, Ashley won the Darren Toop UK Young Coach of the Year award. In 2017, he won the LTA UK Coach of the Year and in 2020 the Peter Grinyer Innovation Award for keeping tennis players active through lockdown with ‘The Tennis Mentor’ social media channels.

Tutor - First Aid

My background is in the sport and leisure industry, where I have over 10 years' experience in supervisory and managerial roles. Whilst working in the Sports Department at the University of Exeter, I became a Trainer/Assessor for the Royal Lifesaving Society, which meant that I could train and assess various First Aid and lifesaving qualifications and also deliver staff training.

Since 2016, I have been a lecturer at Exeter College; where I lecture on Leadership and Management courses. I have maintained my interest in First Aid provision and in addition to my role at Exeter College, I run my own business teaching and assessing First Aid and lifesaving and regularly deliver courses for the University of Exeter.

Tutor

Julie Jones has extensive playing, coaching and tutoring experience across the tennis landscape. She was a national junior player and is currently an L5 LTA Accredited+ coach, LTA Tutor and Mentor. She works full time for the LTA but previously coached and travelled extensively with county, regional and national standard players. She also managed and captained the GB National Deaf Tennis Team for 10 years.

Assistant Operations Manager - Health & Fitness

I have always had a passion for sport and physical activity. Having participated my entire life in various outlets at various levels, I started my career without realising it as a teenager coaching rugby union. After obtaining my degree and spending a small amount of time in the agricultural industry, I moved out to Australia and re-joined the sport and leisure industry playing Rugby and running a franchise gym for 5 years. This is where I really started my career and progressed from trainer to supervisor, to manager bringing me to getting my current role at the University of Exeter.

I have a huge passion for Rugby Union and although I have recently retired from playing will always be involved in some way shape or form. To stay fit and active, which I see as an extremely important part of life, I have recently taken up Crossfit and love the daily challenge.  My life is generally spent being active with a big love for the outdoors too, from surfing to hiking you can find me out in nature in my spare time.

Qualifications:

• BA (Hons) Sports Development and Coaching
• BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma Sports Development and Coaching
• Level 2 Gym Instructor
• RFU Level 2 Coach
• Mental Health First Aid
• First Aid at Work

Email: h.a.j.anderson-brown@exeter.ac.uk

Health and Fitness Consultant

So it’s fair to say I have always been obsessed, and consequently involved in Sports and in particular Sports Coaching. I started going to Judo classes when I was 8 years old spurred on by the exploits of Bruce Lee! By the end of my Judo career I had won 8 British titles plus various Youth & Team medals. I gained my Black Belt at 15 and obtained my BJA Club Coach award shortly after on my 16th Birthday. I also represented my country at Junior level. I continued coaching fight specific athletes (Judo, Wrestling, Boxing & MMA) right up until I moved to Devon and found a real niche in developing fight-based conditioning classes.

Once in Devon I took up running and competed at distances ranging from 10km all the way through to Ultra Trail racing (+30 miles). True to form I encouraged lots of my friends to get into running and this resulted in a UK Athletics Association Club Coach award and a job with a Military Fitness company.

I took the final career jump in 2014 when I quit my corporate job and went back to PT school full time. After 10 months of study I got a job with Premier Training and spent almost 2 years teaching Level 2, Level 3 & Class Instructor courses to Further Ed students. Currently I’m working in The Sports Park as a Health & Fitness Consultant and Class Instructor (Indoor Cycling, Kettlebells, Bootcamp & Sculpt)

Qualifications:

• Level 4 - Weight Management & Diabetes Treatment.
• Level 3 - GP Referral
• Level 3 - Personal Trainer
• Level 3 - Pre & Post Natal Exercise
• Level 3 - First Aid
• Level 2 - Fitness Advisor
• Level 2 - Indoor Cycling
• Level 2 - Circuit Training
• Level 2 - Kettlebells
• Level 2 - Boxercise
• BJA Judo Coach
• UK Athletics Coach in Running Fitness
• Postural Assessment & Corrective Exercise

Email: healthandfitness@exeter.ac.uk

Health and Fitness Consultant

I started using the gym as a place to get stronger and build muscle although at first, I was anxious with no idea where to start. I now have over 10 years of gym-based experience and have broadened my scope by taking part in bodybuilding competitions.

My confidence in gym-based programming is complimented by my undergraduate degree in Clinical Exercise Science and Masters in Sport Management. I have in-depth knowledge of health and fitness testing, programming and training. My main passion is to help others build the confidence to train effectively, using various equipment. I have supported clients in learning about weight training, building muscle and losing fat. If you’re unsure or intimidated by the gym, nutrition or just getting started I can guide you through every step!

Qualifications:

• MSc Sport Management
• BSc (Hons) Clinical Exercise Science (Health and Rehabilitation)
• Level 3 – Personal Trainer
• Level 3 - GP Referral
• Level 2 – Fitness Instructor
• Level 2 – Indoor Cycling

Email: healthandfitness@exeter.ac.uk

Health and Fitness Consultant

I’ve not taken the usual route into the Fitness Industry, I spent over 15 years working in the Outdoor Industry coaching Kayaking, Stand Up Paddleboarding and White Water Rafting.

Due to a degenerative eye condition I’ve changed my career path out of necessity. I wanted to continue inspiring, coaching and instructing people and found being a Personal Trainer allowed me to do this, in a more controlled environment. I tend to use Functional Training Exercises for my clients, helping to improve core strength, balance and coordination. Skills which benefit everyday life as well as gym performance.

I look forward to working with you and helping you to achieve your goals, whatever they are!

Qualifications:

• Fitness Instructing Level 2
• Personal Trainer Level 3
• 16 hour First Aid at Work
• BCU Level 3 Kayak Coach
• BCU Stand-up Paddleboard Coach
• IRF Level 3 Raft Guide
• IRF Safety Kayak
• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• ERCA High Ropes Trainer

Email: healthandfitness@exeter.ac.uk

Health and Fitness Consultant

From competitive youth sports, resistance training, to over a decade of education and experience, I have become an established and complete Exercise Physiologist.

Background of ten years Personal Training, including over five years Physically Rehabilitating individuals and groups with health and/or elite sport specific goals, complex injuries and/or disabilities, movement correction, and dietary analysis.

During this, I have completed significant research and gained substantial professional practice in neuromusculoskeletal injury assessment, identification, and (p)rehabilitation. Possess extensive experience and clinical study in anatomy & physiology, biomechanics, ergogenic nutrition, and exercise programming.

In my spare time, I enjoy skating, climbing, adventuring, visiting new places, and more. I have taught my daughter to swim, ride a bike, and climb. I like to meet with friends, watch series/movies and elite sports/podcasts, and further research movement and musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

Qualifications:

• MSc Sports Rehabilitation (BASRaT)
• BSc (Hons) Health, Exercise & Physical Activity
• Level 3 Exercise (GP) Referral
• Level 3 Personal Training
• Level 3 Sports Massage Therapy
• Level 3 Sports Development (Coaching & Fitness)
• Level 2 Fitness Instructing (Gym-Based Exercise)
• Level 2 Gym Instructor
• Level 2 Instructing Kettlebells
• Level 2 Indoor Cycling Instructor
• Level 2 Sports Leadership
• Level 2 Nutrition
• Level 1 Strength & Conditioning

Email: healthandfitness@exeter.ac.uk

Sports Services Manager

A former University of Exeter Sports Science student, completing her undergraduate and masters at Exeter, Nicky joined the performance team in 2014. Part of the netball performance programme whilst at University, Nicky continues to play for Exeter Netball Club in the England Netball Premier 2 League. Outside of the netball season Nicky enjoys running for South West Road Runners and competes in GB AG Aquathlon.

As Sports Services Manager Nicky leads on the organisation of support services for the University performance athletes and also coordinates the core services for TASS athletes as the TASS Athlete Coordinator. These services include S&C, physiotherapy, performance analysis and athlete lifestyle support. She also manages the University of Exeter TASS sailing hub delivered in partnership with the RYA.

Email: n.a.savill@exeter.ac.uk

Sports Scholarships and Recruitment Officer

Merryn joined the performance team after graduating in the summer of 2022 with a first-class honours degree in Exercise and Sports Science. Merryn was also a sports scholar for the duration of her studying at the University and played in the Women’s Rugby First Team. 

Alongside plenty of other sports such as horse riding, netball, gymnastics and the occasional rough shooting, rugby has been a huge part of Merryn's life and is currently Vice Captain for Exeter Chiefs Women in the Premiership. Merryn has also been capped for England 7s after representing Team England at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022.

Alongside our other Sports Scholarships and Recruitment Officer Holly, Merryn oversees the recruitment of our performance athletes alongside our Scholars and Bursars. Merryn also offers lifestyle mentoring to Sports Scholars/ Bursars at the University and TASS athletes.

Email: m.doidge@exeter.ac.uk

GBP Performance Analyst (Rugby)

Hannah has recently joined the men’s rugby union club as Performance Analyst after graduating in the summer of 2023 with a BSc (Hons) in Exercise and Sports Science. Hannah also played as part in the women’s rugby performance programme throughout her time at university. 

Having been a placement student with the university’s performance analysis programme, and working as an intern at Exeter Chiefs in her final year, Hannah is passionate about the development of interns and athletes and strives to facilitate progression into professional sport after university. 

Her role includes filming training and games, producing performance statistics, and working alongside players and coaches to ensure athletes are performing optimally throughout the season.

Email: H.Burton3@exeter.ac.uk

GBP Performance Analyst (Rugby)

Dec has an Undergraduate degree in Sports Science as well as just completing his Masters in Sport and Health Science (graduate in December 2023). During his time studying, Dec worked with USA Rugby and Exeter Chiefs women’s teams, whilst also interning with the universities women's rugby performance team as an analyst.

Dec is passionate about the growth of women’s rugby, as seen in his ability to inspire players through the work he does in analysis, helping develop their performance and understanding of the game. As the analyst, Dec oversees the recording of matches and training, as well as aiding coaching staff in creating statistical displays.

Email: D.Cooke3@exeter.ac.uk

Assistant Operations Manager - Swim

Years in leisure: Since 2002

Qualifications:

• STA Level 3 Award in Pool Plant Operations
• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification
• First Aid at Work
• NVQ Level 2 in Sport, Recreation and Allied Occupations: Operational services
• Active IQ Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Leisure Management
• Advanced Level Apprenticeship in Leisure Management
• Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Personal Training
• Level 2 Gym instructor
• Master Personal Training Diploma Level 3
• Wright foundation GP Referral to exercise Consultant
• Level 1 England Basketball Assistant Coach
• Level 2 Certificate for swimming teaching

Hobbies and interests:

• I have two Alaskan malamutes (not to be confused with huskies) they are my pride and joy. 

Email: c.keirle@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 723778

Operations Manager - Sports Park

Years in leisure: Since 2001

Qualifications:

• ILM level 3 Leisure Management                              
• NVQ level 2 and 3 Sport and Recreation                                
• IOSH Health and Safety Qualification                            
• NVQ Diploma Level 3 Qualification                            
• Level 6 Chartered Degree Apprenticeship.
• BA (Hons) Management Practice degree.
• First Aid at Work

Hobbies and interests:

• Running                                                                    
• Cricket

Email: david.j.jarvis@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 724496

Operations Manager - St. Lukes

Years in leisure: Since 2011

Qualifications:

• BA (Hons) Sports Studies with Business
• Level 2 Gym Instructor with Circuits
• Level 2 EBBA Coach

Hobbies and interests:

• Basketball
• Cycling
• Learning new things
• Exploring the great outdoors.

Email: d.norris@exeter.ac.uk

Phone: 01392 727602

Duty Manager

Years in leisure: Since 2022

Qualifications:

• First Class Degree in Sport and Exercise Science
• Level 3 Diploma BTEC in Sport and Exercise Science
• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)
• First Aid at Work

Hobbies and interests:

• Rugby
• Netball
• Reading

Duty Manager

Years in leisure: Since 2007

When growing up, Sam enjoyed playing a range of sports, before focusing on rugby and fitness training. This influenced them to pursue a career in the leisure industry. Sam has worked in various positions for 15 years that include lifeguarding, fitness instructing, football coaching, swim teaching, duty managing and being a GoApe instructor. Sam is new to the team, so is looking forward in getting to know everyone.

Qualifications:

• Primary Qualified Teacher Status
• BA (Hons) Adventure Leisure Management and Leisure & Sports Management
• Advanced VCE (Double Award) Leisure and Recreation
• Level 3 Personal Training Qualification
• Group Exercise, Circuits and Bootcamps Qualification
• Group Studio Cycling Qualification
• Level 2 Gym Instructors Qualification
• ASA Level 1 Certificate for Teaching Swimming
• Level 1 FA Certificate in Coaching Football
• Sports Coach UK – Safeguarding & Protecting Children
• Qualified RLSS Pool Lifeguard

Duty Manager

Years in leisure: Since 2018

Tom started working at the University of Exeter as a casual lifeguard at 16 and was promoted to Duty Manager in August 2021. Being one of the young ones of the group, Tom is an individual with lots of energy and eagerness to learn. Tom enjoys bringing his enthusiasm and passion for sport to the job, whilst also learning from more experienced members of the team. Tom has a strong desire for training others in the job role and loves to work in a team to ensure the best service is provided to our customers. Tom thoroughly enjoys working for the University of Exeter Sport, and hopes to continue to improve his managerial skills in the years to come. Tom likes to view himself as a friendly face in the Centre, and you may often see him out and about being a part of operations. Please feel free to come and say hello and have a chat.

Qualifications:

• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification
• BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Sport and Performance
• Circuit Activators Certificate Gold
• Fire Marshall certificate
• Gym Instructor Level 2
• Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award
• RLSS Trainer Assessor
• Mental health First Aider 

Hobbies and interests:

• Campervanning around Devon & Cornwall  
• Surfing
• Travelling the world 

Duty Manager

Years in leisure: Since 2018

Qualifications:

• BSc (Hons) Sports Management
• BTEC level 3 Sports and Exercise Science
• Level 2 Fitness Instructor
• Level 1 Football Coaching
• Safeguarding Children Qualification
• National Pool Lifeguarding Qualification 

Hobbies and interests:

• Hockey
• Water sports
• Athletics

Duty Manager

Years in leisure: Since 2019

Qualifications:

• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification
• Level 2 Swim Teacher Qualification
• Degree in Sports Development and Coaching
• First Aid at Work

Hobbies and interests:

• Rugby
• Netball
• Taking my dog for walks

Duty Manager

Duty Manager

Years in leisure: Since 2021

Qualifications:

• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification

Hobbies and interests:

• Anywhere near the beach!

Operational Assistant

Years in Leisure: Since 2022

Harry started football coaching voluntarily from the age of 13 with Torquay United football club, and then went on to get an apprenticeship with Saints Southwest, a partner of Southampton Football Club. After his apprenticeship ended, Harry got a full-time position as a head coach, coaching the regional U9’s team and delivering lunch time and after school clubs.

Qualifications:

• Level 1 in football coaching
• FA Disability football coaching
• FA Talent Id level 1
• FA Safeguarding qualification
• FA first aid qualification
• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification

Hobbies and interests:

• Football (Liverpool and Torquay United)
• NBA
• Watching Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari)

Performance Sport Coordinator

Brianna has recently joined the performance team after graduating in the summer of 2023 with a BSc (Hons) in Geography. During her time at university Bri was heavily involved within performance sport programme and played for the Women’s Rugby 1XV, 2XV and Exeter Athletic.

Prior to joining the performance team, Bri has been working alongside her studies as a Coach across Devon specialising in multiple sports. During this time, she has developed her knowledge of sport as well as an understanding of the importance of a holistic approach required when competing within a university environment.

As a performance Sport Coordinator Bri will assist the team in the organisation of support services for the athletes on the University’s Performance Programme. 

Email: b.cummins2@exeter.ac.uk

Sport Psychology Support

After obtaining a Doctorate in Sport & Exercise Psychology, Rebecca joined the University of Exeter as both a Lecturer in Applied Sport Psychology, and as the Lead Psychologist for the Sports Park. She specialises in supporting athletes from a variety of sporting backgrounds and provides applied psychological support to our university and dual-career student-athletes, helping them achieve success in both their sports and academic pursuits.

Rebecca’s holistic approach enables her to support athletes in enhancing their sporting performance, while also prioritising their overall well-being. Rebecca offers our performance programmes both group, and 1:1 support, focusing on topics such as confidence, resilience, maintaining peak performance, and team cohesion, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by student-athletes.

Email: r.legge@exeter.ac.uk