Challenge learning and develop soft skills for impact
English Institute of Sport (EIS) Director of Science and Technical Development Dr Kevin Currell has called on aspiring practitioners to challenge themselves in their learning and develop soft skills alongside technical knowledge in order to excel in performance sport.
Speaking to the Education2Sport Podcast Currell, whose career started as an EIS intern before more recently leading the EIS Performance Nutrition team during the Rio Olympic and Paralympic cycle, insists whilst knowledge is important, it doesn’t necessarily relate to impact at the elite level.
“Knowledge is important, both technically in your profession and of sports performance in general” he says. “But there comes a point where more knowledge doesn’t mean more impact.
“What does is your soft skills, the ability to communicate, influence, problem solve, which really make a difference in a high performance sport environment. A lot of our internal training throughout the EIS is based around these skills because we think they make a huge difference.”
In a wide ranging interview, Currell talks about his own career journey, his experiences as a practitioner and now a member of the EIS senior management team, whilst advising aspiring student practitioners to work hard and challenge themselves in their learning.
“My advice would be to enjoy university but work hard, be curious, look for answers and get as much experience as you can. Even if you fail that’s ok, we’ve all done it, but be driven to find experience where you can.”