From Placement Students to Part of the Team

As the season draws to a close, we’d like to say a huge thank you to Solent University placement students James Colman and Fin Macdonald for all their hard work and support alongside our medical and sport science staff throughout the campaign.

It’s been a brilliant season on the pitch, and the medical team have done an incredible job looking after the squad and managing a number of unfortunate injuries along the way. Remarkably, we’ve gone through the whole season without a single surgery required — something that probably hasn’t happened at the club for many years. James and Fin have been a credit to themselves and Solent University throughout their time with us. Their attitude, professionalism and willingness to learn have been appreciated by everyone around the club.

Stag's coach Louis Langdown commented on the students success: “We’ve built a fantastic relationship with Solent University over the years. We’re lucky to have access to their facilities and the expertise of their staff. At AFC Totton we pride ourselves on being a teaching and mentoring environment, and all of our staff play a part in helping young practitioners develop and gain real experience within the game.”

As well as James and Fin. , a recent Solent BSc Sports Therapy graduate,  Issy Clarke, has also been brilliant this season assisting lead physio Riley Langdown with training and matchday cover. All three have played a big part in maintaining the player-centred environment we value so highly at the club.

AFC Totton manager Scott Rendell highlighted the importance of their efforts:  “Issy, James and Finn have become a big part of the group and are really well-liked by everyone at the club. They’ve all got bright futures in the game ahead of them and we’re delighted to have helped play a small part in their journey.” 

Director of Football Dave Wright also added:  “As a club, we really value opening our doors to the practitioners of tomorrow. I’d like to thank all of the staff for the time and effort they’ve put into guiding and mentoring James and Finn as they complete their studies, as well as Issy for her season-long commitment to the welfare of our players after graduating last year.”

Fin delivering a pre-game warm up

Fin added: “Thank you for this season, especially Louis for making this opportunity happen for me. I’ve gained loads of experience leading the lads in matchday warm-ups and training conditioning sessions, and it’s given me a real insight into everything that goes on behind the scenes. I really appreciate the time and support from Louis, Jimmy and now Rends throughout the season.”

James also commented on his experience gained this season : “I’ve had a really positive experience at Totton working as a Sports Therapist intern alongside a great medical team. It’s been a brilliant opportunity to put the skills I’ve learned at university into practice while gaining experience in a men’s football environment. Massive shout out to Riley as well for all the help throughout the season.”

Good luck to James, Fin and Issy from everyone in the Stags family — and thank you again for everything this season.

Fin McDonald studying BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science

James Colman studying BSc Hons) Sport & Exercise Therapy

Issy Clarke Graduate BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Therapist

#GOSTAGS