Catriona clinches new rugby role

Student Catriona Thomson has a new role when she completes her Sports Therapy degree this summer - she’s clinched a job as Honorary Masseur for the England Women’s Rugby League team.

The voluntary role begins in June and will last until December 2010. Then it will be reviewed to see how Catriona works within the team. If successful, she could be kept on until the 2012 Rugby League World Cup.

Catriona, 21, from Portsmouth, first saw the masseur post advertised on a noticeboard on campus. She applied, was shortlisted for interview in Leeds and achieved the post.

Catriona will be one of three masseurs working in collaboration with the team’s Physiotherapist. She said: 'I was over the moon to get the post and dead chuffed; I didn’t really expect to get it. I thought there would be people with more experience. The masseurs and physiotherapist will be working together to make sure the squad of 50 keep in shape.

Looking forward to working with elite athletes 'I’m looking forward to the experience of travelling with the team and working with elite level athletes. I never thought I’d get to do this. I play women’s rugby union myself, so I have some insight into the demands that are placed upon the league players. I enjoy the team spirit and socialising with my team mates.'

Catriona is hoping to return to the University in the autumn, to enrol on a new Master's degree in Advanced Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation. Eventually she wants to work as a Sports Therapist for an international rugby team.

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