Speaker

Neasa Russell

Sport England

I specialise in the science and systems of developing people to their potential through sport. My experience is mainly in high performance sport where I have held a breadth of roles including coach, sport scientist and system lead. My professional experience as an engineer, scientist and coach inform my keen interest in designing and developing learning environments and experiences – places and spaces that lead people to change their practice and improve individual and team performance. With a person-centred philosophy my approach to work is based on collaboration, engagement and seeking a better understanding of how (sport) systems can support people to thrive.

Talent identification and development has been a recurring focus over my career. I am currently the Head of Talent Development at Sport England. I led the ‘Discover Your Gold’ UK-wide talent id campaign whilst in my role as a sport scientist in the English Institute of Sport/UK Sport Performance Pathway Team. Previously I had first hand experience of identifying and developing young people through my coaching roles with GB Rowing Team’s START Talent ID & Development programme and as an Apprentice Coach/Junior Team Lead with Rowing Ireland.