BSc Sport & Exercise Science, 2015-2018

Next Steps After Swansea
After completing my degree, I undertook a studentship to gain an MSc in Applied Sports Performance Analysis while working full time. This allowed me to continue developing academically while gaining practical experience in a high-performance sport environment, helping bridge the gap between theory and applied practice.

Current Role
Data & Insights Analyst, Great Britain Cycling Team (UK Sports Institute), Manchester

Sophie Ball

In my role, I support coaches and athletes during training sessions through video analysis, timing data and telemetry-based effort reports. A significant part of my work focuses on What It Takes To Win projects, ensuring athlete monitoring supports both elite performance and long-term athlete development across the pathway. I also use machine learning and predictive modelling to support athlete selection and inform investment decisions across different age groups within the pathway.

Impact of Swansea
The BSc programme equipped me with a strong understanding of the full athlete system through modules such as biomechanics, physiology, psychology and strength and conditioning. Practical laboratory testing experiences helped build confidence when working directly with athletes in elite settings. Beyond academics, the wider university experience — engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives — contributed significantly to my personal development and ability to work effectively in high-performance environments.

Highlights & Advice
Career highlights include supporting England Rugby Women against the Barbarians at Twickenham Stadium, and contributing to the Women’s Madison gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games after working closely with the athletes and coach on race strategy.

My advice is to back yourself and keep pushing to gain as much experience as possible — every opportunity helps when trying to get a foot in the door, and persistence will pay off.

Sophie Ball