University gives Olympic boost to GB volleyball team

Date: 11/05/2012. Story submitted by: SuzanneRutter

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The GB women’s volleyball team are on course for Olympic success thanks to free sports science support from experts at Sheffield Hallam University.

The British Volleyball Federation (BVF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding following a reduction in funding, which left the GB women's programme in danger of shutting down in Sheffield.

Although their London 2012 Olympic Games places were confirmed by the British Olympic Association earlier this year, the cut would have put their Olympic plans in danger.

Sport science support for the squad includes physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, biomechanics, nutrition and sport psychology. Sheffield Hallam has also extended its support for the team beyond London 2012 to continue their progress to Rio in 2016.

Professor Ian Maynard, director of the Centre for Sport and Exercise Science (CSES) at Sheffield Hallam, said: "I'm very proud that we've been able to step in and continue to provide support for the GB women's volleyball team on their Olympic journey.

"Our aim is to assist them in achieving their goals in the run up to 2012 and beyond by providing the squad with a full remit of sport science and sport medicine services in our world class facilities."

Working in conjunction with head coach Audrey Cooper, the university has also provided a ‘remote’ support service for team members while they have been playing for their clubs across Europe. This has allowed squad members to contact the sport scientists for guidance and support while they have been away.

Player Nicky Osborne said: "Having the support from Sheffield Hallam over the winter professional season has been invaluable. I've had regular Skype chats and reviews with sport scientists and it has been fundamental in helping to improve my mental strength.

"The support has helped me push myself through tough times and out of my comfort zone, and keep my goals consistent with the GB focus.

"In the run up to London 2012, CSES will continue to play an essential role in preparing our team to give our best performances.”

Additional info

Address: City Campus, Howard Street Sheffield South Yorkshire S1 1WB

Tags: Sheffield Hallam University; The British Volleyball Federation