Sports therapy students from the University of Central Lancashire put their skills into practice on an international stage this July, providing treatments and first aid support to athletes at the 2025 International Island Games, held this year in Orkney.
Led by their lecturer Pieter Crossley, 14 BSc(Hons) Sport Therapy students travelled to the Scottish islands to support the major celebration of sport and island culture.
With the University providing transport and accommodation, the group played an active role across a range of events – including athletics, squash, cycling and more - treating and assisting competitors from more than 20 different island groups.
Now in its 20th edition, the week-long games brought an estimated 2,500 to 3,000 visitors to Orkney, making it the largest event the islands have ever hosted.
The trip to Orkney for the Small Island Games was an unforgettable experience and such a valuable opportunity as a first-year sports therapy student. It gave me the chance to get hands-on with real athletes across a wide range of sports.– Student Ruby Robinson
Student Ruby Robinson, who also captured photos and videos to document the event, said: “The trip to Orkney for the Small Island Games was an unforgettable experience and such a valuable opportunity as a first-year sports therapy student. It gave me the chance to get hands-on with real athletes across a wide range of sports.”
Students delivered pitch-side therapy, injury assessment and treatment, alongside general first aid, gaining experience under pressure and in fast-paced, real-world settings.
“My favourite part was being right there in the action,” Ruby added. “Treating athletes from different teams, working as part of a support team, and learning so much from our second and third year students and lecturers.”
Pieter praised the group for their professionalism and teamwork, saying the placement had given students an “invaluable insight into life working within elite and international sport, with there being “great feedback from athletes and other medical personnel.”
The confidence and skills I’ve gained - from communicating with athletes under pressure, to applying treatments in a fast-paced setting - have definitely given me a head start.– Student Ruby Robinson
Ruby agrees that the trip has provided valuable experience, “The confidence and skills I’ve gained - from communicating with athletes under pressure, to applying treatments in a fast-paced setting - have definitely given me a head start.
“I’ve come away inspired, more prepared for future placements, and more excited than ever about the career I’m working towards in sports therapy. I could talk about it all day long - the trip was absolutely amazing.”
