St Mary’s staff recognised at national TASS Awards

Two colleagues from St Mary’s University have been recognised at this year’s Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) National Conference Awards, celebrating excellence in supporting the UK’s talent in the field.

Samuel Harry, Physiotherapist at St Mary’s, was awarded Physio of the Year, while Dr James Fleming, Associate Head of Nutrition, was named Runner Up in the Nutritionist of Year category.

The annual TASS National Conference brings together practitioners and sport organisation from across the UK network to learn from industry experts, share best practices and collaborate on supporting emerging athletes.

As a TASS delivery sites, St Mary’s provides expert support to athletes through strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, psychology, nutrition and lifestyle support. The University’s multidisciplinary team works with athletes across a wide range of sports and at different stages of their performance pathways, helping them reach their full potential.

Dr James Fleming said: “I really enjoyed the TASS conference. It was great to connect with other practitioners across the country, present our research, and hear from some excellent speakers.

I was thrilled to have been nominated for TASS Nutritionist of the Year and recognised for my small contribution to the great athletes we support at St Mary's. I love working with our ambitious and talented multidisciplinary TASS team and look forward to being part of the continued growth of our hub.

My focus for the rest of year includes supporting athletes preparing for the Commonwealth games and the European Championships.”

Samuel Harry said: “I was genuinely surprised and really honoured to be recognised as the TASS Physiotherapist of the Year. What makes it even more special is that the recognition came from both athletes and fellow practitioners who I work alongside every day. Their trust, support and feedback mean a great deal to me.

I look forward to seeing the athletes compete over the coming months. It's been great to play a small part in their journey, supporting athletes preparing for both the Commonwealth Games in athletics and weightlifting and the European Championships in gymnastics, kayaking and athletics.

I'm fortunate to work alongside a fantastic group of passionate and like-minded practitioners at St Mary's. Everyone genuinely cares about helping athletes perform at their best, and being part of a team that shares ideas, challenges each other and works together to support athletes is something I really value.”

Receiving this award is a huge motivation to keep learning and developing as a practitioner. I'm incredibly grateful for the support from colleagues and athletes, and I look forward to continuing to support the athletes and work alongside the other brilliant TASS practitioners at St Mary's.”

The awards highlight the expertise of St Mary’s TASS team and the University’s continued commitment to supporting talented athletes both on and off the field of play.