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UoG postgraduate student is appointed head coach of Rowing Australia’s para programme

University of Gloucestershire postgraduate student James Loveday is “deeply honoured” to have been appointed Head Coach of Rowing Australia’s gold medal-winning para programme.

James, who is working towards a master’s degree in Professional Practice in Sports Coaching, has been promoted to the top role after spending two years as Para Lead Coach at Rowing Australia, the national governing body of the sport in Australia.

As Para Lead coach, James contributed to Rowing Australia winning their first ever Paralympic gold medal, in the mixed double sculls in Paris last year.

He joined Rowing Australia in December 2022 after spending nearly three years at British Rowing as a Performance Pathway Coach on its Paralympic Programme.

James, who is able to continue his master’s degree remotely from Australia, said: “I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Head Coach for the para rowing programme at Rowing Australia.

“It’s a privilege to work with such a talented group of athletes and staff, and I’m excited to build on the incredible legacy created in Paris. Together, we will strive to achieve even greater heights as we look towards Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.”

Dr Rachael Bullingham, Senior Lecturer of Sport and Exercise Science at the University, said: “James has managed the course exceptionally well, successfully juggling an important new position on the other side of the world with his studies.

“As part of the course, he completed a fascinating work-based project on the stress on coaches at an international event. We are very pleased that James has been able to continue on the course and wish him every success in his new role with Rowing Australia.”

Main image: Postgraduate student James Loveday at a training day for the 2023 World Rowing Championships (credit Rowing Australia)