Will Brant

My Graduate Story

My name is Will, and I’m the Under 18 Physical Performance Coach at Birmingham City FC, while studying Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Birmingham. My current role is to support the on-field conditioning of the players and assist coaches with session design.

Our goal is to ensure we meet the physical demands of each session on both a short-term and long-term basis. In the short term, that means preparing players as best we can for the week ahead. On the long-term trajectory, the aim is always to prepare players for progression, from the U18s to the U21s, and from the U21s into the first team. To achieve this, we make sure players are not just meeting but surpassing the level of the age group above, so they are ready for that next step.

Day-to-day, I deliver warmups, lead activations, and provide all-round session support, making sure everything is in place to maximise performance.

A Day in my Life

On a daily basis, I’m focused on ensuring the players hit the required physical demands. That involves delivering warmups and activations before sessions, supporting training with conditioning elements, and tailoring the workload so it aligns with both immediate and long-term development goals. Everything is geared towards preparing them to step up successfully through the academy structure and ultimately into the first team.

My Journey to Birmingham City FC

Gaining practical experience was a huge priority for me. I always advise current students to seek experience as early as possible, whether through university sports teams, local non-league clubs, or professional setups.

At Birmingham City FC, we now have a partnership with the University of Birmingham, designed to develop the next generation of practitioners. This includes opportunities not only in strength and conditioning but also in recruitment, data analytics, coaching, performance analysis, and pedagogy. It’s an exciting time at the club, and this partnership creates an ideal pathway for students who want to pursue a career in sport.

My Birmingham Experience

The University of Birmingham is internationally renowned for sport science, and it was my first choice from the start. Visiting campus and the Vale Village sealed my decision—the community feel and campus-based environment made it stand out from other universities spread across city locations.

The degree itself provided a strong foundation, covering anatomy, psychology, nutrition, biomechanics, and more. This generalist approach has been incredibly valuable. It means when I go into multidisciplinary team meetings, I understand the perspectives and expertise of colleagues in different roles. While I may not be the expert in their area, that understanding helps me refine my own practice and contribute more effectively to the team.

Birmingham’s Impact

The course gave me both the academic foundation and professional opportunities to bridge theory and practice. Through Birmingham’s reputation and the new partnership with Birmingham City FC, I’ve been able to combine my studies with my professional development in elite sport.

My Achievements

One of my proudest achievements has been helping U18 players develop physically to progress toward the U21s and, ultimately, the first team. Alongside this, balancing my academic studies with my professional coaching role has been a rewarding challenge.

Advice for Students

Get experience as early as you can. Use opportunities within university sport teams, non-league clubs, or professional clubs.

Take advantage of partnerships between the University of Birmingham and professional organisations like Birmingham City FC.

Explore different areas of sport science—strength and conditioning, recruitment, data analytics, coaching, or performance analysis—to find where your passion lies.

Build your knowledge and network across fields. Even if you specialise, understanding other disciplines will make you a stronger practitioner.