Meet Andrew and Aimee: Our Newest SPRINT Project Students

Hello! This week we’re welcoming Andrew and Aimee, our newest physiotherapy students beginning their research placement with the SPRINT Project. 

They will be spending the next six weeks supporting work on the Paralympic Games mental health guidelines and learning more about the experiences of athletes, coaches and members of the wider support team. Read on to discover more about their journeys into physiotherapy and what they’re looking forward to during their time with the SPRINT project. 

Andrew 

Hi! My name is Andrew, and I am an international student from Hong Kong, currently in my second year of the MSci Physiotherapy programme at the University of Birmingham. I am really excited to be part of the SPRINT Project for my research placement over the next six weeks, where I will be exploring experiences related to mental health in the Paralympic Games, contributing towards the development of future guidelines. 

Image description: photo of Andrew in the Great Hall

I chose to study physiotherapy because I am inspired by the impact it can have on improving people’s lives. I have been involved in football since secondary school, where I developed a strong appreciation for communication and responsibility both on and off the pitch. I particularly enjoy engaging with teammates and staff, as it helps to build trust, reduce confusion, and support both physical and mental wellbeing. 

During this placement, I am especially interested in exploring the role of psychology within sport, including perspectives beyond those of athletes, such as referees. This is an area that is new to me, and I am keen to develop my understanding of how psychological factors influence performance in real sporting and clinical environments. 

I am looking forward to seeing how football and psychology can be integrated, and how this knowledge can support both referees and athletes in maintaining performance and their mental health at the highest level. I am excited to learn from the SPRINT team and to share my journey throughout this placement. 

Aimee 

Hi, my name is Aimee, and I’m a second‑year physiotherapy student beginning my very first placement with the SPRINT Project. I’m originally from Sheffield, which means I grew up with the Peak District practically on my doorstep long walks, big hills, and beautiful views bring me joy. 

Image description: Photo of Aimee in a cafe

I was drawn to physiotherapy because it brings together everything I care about: helping people, understanding the science behind the human body, and supporting individuals across every stage of life. I love that physio can look so different depending on the person in front of you, whether it is an athlete on the field, a frail patient in hospital, or a child learning to move confidently at home. That variety is what excites me most about the profession. 

Over the past few years, I’ve become increasingly aware of how closely physical and mental health are connected. As a future physiotherapist, I know I’ll need to support both. That’s one of the reasons I’m so excited to be part of the SPRINT team, helping to develop mental health guidelines for the Paralympics. It feels like a rare opportunity to deepen my understanding of mental health and the support it requires. 

I’m looking forward to seeing how this research will shape my future practice, and I’m excited for the next six weeks of learning, growing, and getting stuck in with the SPRINT team.