Any major competitions in 2019?
Yes there are few major competitions I am working towards in my calendar, I am hoping for a successful return to the Senior European Nations Competition where we came 1st in 2018 and 3rd in 2017. I am also preparing for the 2019 World Students Games in Naples which should be a great opportunity to showcase GB water polo as the last time we competed in the 2017 Taipei World University Games we finished 8th.
How will you prepare for these competitions?
A lot of work behind the scenes goes into preparing for these competitions. As I have now been competing regularly in international competition since 2014 so I have been reflecting on certain areas that I can improve and when to work on these areas. For the competitions this summer the work started in July 2018. The national side is now training monthly together which really helps us to build as a team and allows us to make sure our tactics are in order for a successful summer.
Reflect on 2018 as a year as a student athlete?
2018 was a fantastic year for me personally as a student athlete, with lots of competitions and also completing my 3rd and final year on my undergraduate course. In regards to water polo I won my first Irish National Cup with the Corrib side from Galway which was a great experience and a new venture into Irish water polo. I also gained 5 more England Senior Caps which was highlighted by the sides success at the European Nations Tournament. However, just because there was water polo competitions the studying didn't stop for university and I managed to gain the highest mark for Physical Education and School Sport on my undergraduate course which really helped cap of a successful 2018.
How has Sheffield Hallam supported your in 2018?
Sheffield Hallam as they always have done have supported me immensely. The S&C and physiotherapy provided made sure I was always ready to compete whatever phase of the seasons we were in and the lifestyle support I received really helped me to achieved everything I have done this year.
What do you love about Sheffield as a City?
The sport! Sheffield really is a city with sport at it's heart with world class facilities, coaches, volunteers and athletes that really want to succeed.
What is your long term goal?
My long term goal is to build in a successful career whilst also competing at the top of my sport and I believe Sheffield Hallam will help me to achieve this.