Myerscough’s sport research tees off at The Open Championship Golf Performance and Health Summit

The event, hosted by Liverpool John Moore’s University and The R&A, takes places after this year’s successful Open Championship held in front of record crowds at Royal Liverpool Golf Club.

Attendees at the invite only golf performance and health summit included golf performance directors from national governing bodies and tours, in addition to a range of academics and experts from wider sport, to explore the opportunities for implementation of best practice in golf and what needs further research.

Dr John Fry, Research Lead for Sport, presented results from a project assessing mental health in professional golf, and focused on some of the trials and tribulations that plying your trade in the professional sports arena can bring.

John said: ‘’A key aspect of the research we undertake here at Myerscough is to consider a holistic approach to improving sport performance, which encompasses the physiological, psychological, bio-mechanical, pedagogical, and sociological aspects.’’

"This particular research talk highlighted how work in professional golf can, in fact, lead to mental health related issues, including depression, amongst professional sportspeople.’’

"Results indicate that it is important to ensure support structures are put in place to support aspiring professionals in regards to some of the hidden pressures of sports work.’’

Mental health issues are becoming increasingly prominent in elite sports, with a number of athletes speaking about such issues, most recently including football players and cricketers.

John continues: "This research maps onto the academic provision offered at Myerscough, where graduates gain employment in sports management organisation involved in sporting elite athletes, and thus have an understanding of the hidden complexities of pro sport.’’

Zulakha Desai, Assistant Principal Higher Education, added: “Myerscough College is proud of its commitment to original research and our teaching and learning, particularly at higher education level, is underpinned by strong scholarly activities; the pinnacle of which is the College’s pioneering research programme.’’

“Myerscough has more than 30 lecturing staff actively engaged in research projects, often working alongside teams of undergraduate and postgraduate students.

‘’Relevant research helps to maintain the UCM’s position at the forefront of the industries it serves, whilst also adding value and diversity to our curriculum content and styles of teaching.’’

For more information contact Dr John Fry on jfry@myerscough.ac.uk