Tom Robertson
Tom describes his experience of Newcastle University and his role at Newcastle Falcons RFC.
Sport and Data Scientist
Hello, I’m Tom Robertson and I am a Sport and Data Scientist at Newcastle Falcons RFC. I am also a recent BSc graduate of Sports and Exercise Science from Newcastle University, having graduated in July 2024.
My time with Newcastle Falcons began back in 2021, when I started my placement year there as a Data Analyst. From this I continued my work as a part time Sport Scientist alongside completing the final year of my degree. This surmounted in being offered the full-time role as a Sport and Data Scientist.
I vastly enjoyed my time at Newcastle University both socially and academically. I benefitted greatly from the fantastic sport programme, playing uni rugby and intramural 5-a-side and 11-a-side football, as well as taking advantage of the brilliant sport centre and gym. Away from uni, the eclectic night life, from town to Ouseburn, and the vibrance of the student area in Jesmond ensured a true uni experience, one I will miss dearly. Finally, the exceptional staff, facilities, programme, and support of the Sport Science degree gave me the tools to succeed in my career. The high scientific standard and broad syllabus of sport science gripped me throughout. The range of assessments and projects you work on applied fantastically to real work situations and the delivery of material ensured you had every chance to succeed. I cannot recommend this university and this course any higher.
My job role now involves athlete testing, data collection, coding in Python, R, Power BI and Excel alongside machine learning and AI models, statistical analysis, report production and collaboration with players, coaches, analysts and the academy. Having completed modules in Sports Medicine that included coding education, Factors Affecting Elite Performance and Applied Physiology that outline athlete testing protocols and completing a dissertation project centred around assessment of various levels of fatigue and neuromuscular recovery, I was adequately prepared for the tasks of my job. Moreover, my placement year gave me valuable experience in understanding the culture and professional expectancies of a backroom staff member in a performance environment. It has also given me the appetite to continue my education in a part time MSc in Data Science.
I look back fondly on my time at Newcastle University, and I am eternally grateful for the education it has provided me both in life and academia.
Tom graduated in 2024 with a BSc in Sports and Exercise Science.
