Joe Alford
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Southern Academy of Sport Ltd
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
Following some post-graduation travel and playing rugby abroad, I completed a 16 month placement at the English Institute of Sport as an assistant coach preparing athletes for the 2012 Olympics. Following this, I opened my own sports performance company, Southern Academy of Sport Ltd. We help athletes, teams and organisations upgrade their performance through strength and conditioning, sports science, athlete education and rehabilitation services. We have supported Olympians, UFC fighters, professional rugby players and footballers, and international athletes in over twenty sports. We currently work with over 500 athletes throughout the South-West, including professional rugby and football clubs and talent pathways. Alongside my company, I have spent the past two years as a part-time lecturer at the University of West of England’s Sport, Business and Entrepreneurship BA program.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
My passion for sports performance was enhanced during my degree at Exeter. I enjoy working on both the strategic level – for example, business development or planning squad provision – but still enjoy keeping my eye in on the ground and running coaching for squads and individuals.
Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?
Rugby
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
Learning from so many accomplished professionals, many of which had real-world experience to accompany their academic achievements.
What did you most enjoy about studying here?
Exeter is set in a beautiful part of the world, and I made the most of the Devon hills and beaches. The city was great too.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
A leading Exercise Science program and a leading rugby team: an irresistible combination!
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Apart from the technical knowledge, I really took away from Exeter the importance of, and ability to, critically analyse information.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
1: Develop the mindset that you are at university to learn skills for your future employment, don’t get caught in the trap of thinking you are simply learning to pass the next exam or year. That small change in thinking will ensure you learn with greater focus and intent.
2: Network, network, network. Get out to employers, volunteer your time in anything relevant. Build your network and your CV.
What are your plans for the future?
Develop the Southern Academy of Sport from a regional brand to a national brand.
