Kamyl Hammond

What have you been doing since graduation?

After graduating, my original plan was to continue my studies and become a teacher. However, during my third year, I suffered a serious injury—tearing my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), meniscus, and medial ligament—which shifted my path. While recovering, I decided to set up a sports therapy business and returned to the UK the following year.

That decision turned out to be pivotal. My passion for the profession grew immensely, and the injury gave me a deeper, firsthand understanding of rehabilitation and recovery. It ultimately led me to where I am today. I now operate from a private clinic, working with both the general public and athletes.

Over the years, I’ve developed and refined key skills including injury assessment, rehabilitation planning, sports massage, manual mobilisations, electrotherapy, dry needling, and personal training. I also work as a strength and conditioning coach for the national netball squad and provide injury diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and pitch-side first aid at a football club.

What is your career highlight so far?

It’s been an incredibly rewarding four years in the field, and I’ve had many memorable moments. The most meaningful highlight has been seeing the real impact I can have on people’s wellbeing and overall quality of life, especially among older adults, including pensioners and those in their 80s.

Helping them regain mobility, reduce pain, and feel better both physically and mentally is deeply fulfilling. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share my knowledge and make a difference in people’s lives.

Why did you choose to study at Solent?

One of the main reasons was the warmer climate down south, honestly, that was a big factor! But beyond that, Southampton reminded me a lot of home in Gibraltar. Everything is close by and easily accessible, which made daily life much more convenient.

I liked that I didn’t need to rely heavily on public transport to get to university, the gym, shops, or the city centre. That sense of familiarity and ease made my experience abroad much smoother and more enjoyable.

How has Solent helped prepare you for your career?

My lecturers at Solent played a huge role in shaping my career. They gave me the confidence to tackle complex challenges and always made me feel supported. Their belief in me, often more than I believed in myself, was the push I needed to step into the world of sports therapy.

Much of what I learned at university still forms the foundation of my practice today. My lecture notes became my go-to resource when I started seeing clients, and they continue to guide my ongoing learning and growth.

What are your top tips for someone wanting a career in your field?

• Be open to new challenges and opportunities. You never know what might lead to your ideal role.
• Build strong relationships and expand your network. The people you meet can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
• Explore different environments. Try working in clinics, hospitals, gyms, wellness centres, and sports clubs. You might be surprised where you thrive.
• Focus on your own growth. Learn from others, but don’t compare yourself. Your biggest competition is the person you were yesterday.

What’s next for you?

This year, I’m focused on growing my business and building my reputation as a sports therapist. Eventually, I’d like to work in a clinic with a fully functioning reception, as managing the business side can be time consuming, though still incredibly rewarding.

I’m also exploring opportunities in hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation, particularly at the centre where I completed work experience last year. I find great satisfaction in working with older adults and would love to lead classes for cardiac rehab patients.