Tom Taylor and Jordan Smith, both graduates of Swansea University, have taken on prominent roles as lead Physical Performance Coaches at Chelsea Football Club and West Ham United respectively. They pursued a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science followed by a Masters by Research in Sports Science at Swansea University.
Their academic journey at Swansea included extensive work with elite athletes across various sports, providing them with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through placements with professional football clubs. This blend of education and hands-on experience helped pave their paths to the Premier League.
At their respective clubs, Taylor and Smith are tasked with delivering physical performance programs for the Men’s First Team squad while managing teams of physical performance coaches.
Tom Taylor's career includes stints with top-flight clubs such as Glasgow Rangers, Heart of Midlothian, Brighton and Hove Albion, and West Ham United before assuming his current role at Chelsea. Reflecting on his education, Taylor stated: “Studying Sport Science at Swansea University laid the foundation for my career in professional sport."
Jordan Smith began his career in the performance team at Swansea City before moving to Brighton and Hove Albion, eventually taking on a leading role at West Ham. He credits his time at Swansea for equipping him with essential skills: “My time at Swansea really cemented my drive to work in elite sport."
Swansea University's department of sport and exercise science has seen many graduates enhance their employability prospects significantly. Every student who completed the MSc in sports science has secured roles within the sector.
Professor Liam Kilduff from Swansea University highlighted the achievements of alumni like Jordan and Tom: “Our undergraduate degree sets a really strong foundation for our students." The university has also launched new Master's programs tailored to industry needs, such as the MSc in Advanced Sport Performance Science.