Student supports elite athletes at world cup

Ahead of Scotland Women's Rugby team's quarter final match at Ashton Gate Stadium, Hetty spent three days supporting players by delivering sports massage. The opportunity was part of Hetty's placement at Bristol Bears Rugby, which she is undertaking alongside her degree at Solent.

Hetty says her course has played a key role in giving her the skills needed to take on this unique opportunity. "My massage module during first year massively helped me," she says. "I felt confident that the way I was massaging and the techniques I applied were correct and to a high standard."

The second-year student also credits the Solent massage clinic, which gives learners the opportunity to develop their skills by working with clients in a treatment suite on campus. "I was confident building a rapport with the players and making them feel safe and comfortable due to my prior experience," Hetty says.

Hetty's world cup experience complements her course at Solent, which emphasises practice-led learning and teaching. Across three days, during which Hetty delivered up to four hours a day of massage treatment to Scotland's elite rugby players in the women's team, the Solent undergrad gained insight from professional therapists which further informed her learning.

Course Leader for Sport and Exercise Therapy at Solent, Dr Lynsey Northeast, says:

"To see our students put what they have learned into practice on the world stage really showcases the value of our approach here at Solent. We're industry-accredited, boast the very best facilities, and champion our students to take on fantastic opportunities like this one, knowing the value is unmatched. We're all really proud of Hetty!"