Meet the Team is a blog series at Portobello Institute where we introduce our tutors by exploring their educational and professional backgrounds.
Christopher Higgins is a tutor on our BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy degree, one of the most popular courses at Portobello Institute, awarded by University of Essex.
Hailing from Dublin, the 27 year old is also a hands-on expert practitioner as Head of Academy Medical at Shamrock Rovers Football Club and a Certified Athletic Therapist with Dublin GAA.
Let's dive in and get to know Chris a little more.
Education
What degrees have you earned, and from which institutions?
I have a BSc in Athletic Therapy and Training from Dublin City University, and an MSc in Strength & Conditioning from the University of Central Lancashire.
Why did you choose this education pathway?
I have always had a keen interest in sports and the management of athletes. Therefore, I thought it would be a fulfilling career path to be able to support athletes through their injuries & performance.
Why did you decide to do your MSc?
Alongside supporting athletes through injuries, I also decided it would be beneficial for my own career development to broaden my skillset with the MSc. Now with the skills obtained from this, I can now support athletes beyond their injury journey and further help to enhance their performance.
I gained a deeper understanding of the world of sports therapy and performance as a whole, with a real enlighten on how to apply this in real world, but also in the classroom to support all prospective students.
Likewise, studying at MSc level allowed me to expand my skillset making me a more well rounded practitioner.
Career
What is your current role or roles?
- Sports Therapy Tutor at Portobello Institute
- Head of Academy Medical at Shamrock Rovers Football Club
- Certified Athletic Therapist with Dublin GAA
How did your career start and how has it progressed?
My career initially started through various different placements during my undergraduate which ultimately led me down the road of where I am today, as it opened many doors for me. This is why I stress to my students the importance of placements for networking and opening avenues to employment.
After 6 months of working with Birmingham City FC I returned to Ireland where I took up a role with Dundalk FC, leading the academy medical provisions for a season. This was followed by a return to Dublin where I took on a role in Gaelic football with Dublin GAA. I am now entering into my fourth year with them.
For the previous two years I have led the medical department at Shamrock Rovers academy, where I take several students on their placement journeys.
Alongside all of the above I have worked with in private practice in several Physiotherapy clinics, and of course I have had the pleasure of being a Sports Therapy tutor for the previous 2 years.
My career progression has been an interesting and enjoyable one. I think the variance in roles and responsibilities allows me to enjoy work continually and look forward to the next days, weeks, etc.
Has education been a catalyst for your career and if so, how?
Absolutely. Further enhancing my skillset from undergraduate and post graduate degrees alongside continual professional development, have enhanced my overall ability in my current roles.
Likewise, my now role in education is excellent for supporting my own career outside of Portobello Institute. As I get the opportunity to continually review current ideas and research, supporting me in staying up to date with best practice. Additionally, the continual interaction with students allows me to bounce ideas and reflect as we discuss challenging topics in class.
What do you enjoy most about your career in sport?
The two things I enjoy most are the variety from day to day and the ability to help so many people. I find it very rewarding providing support someone through their pain &/or injury journey and back to playing sports. Additionally, I have the pleasure of supporting so many students in the early days of their careers and it is great to see them thrive as a result of it.
What are your goals for your future career and education?
An aspiring goal of mine is the work with athletes across several sporting backgrounds and at the highest level of their respective sports.
Why did you decide to get into tutoring?
During my time in my undergraduate I developed great professional relationships with my tutors and lecturers. I found them to be very supportive and it really inspired me to take a similar journey into tutoring.
What is the best thing about being a tutor in your area of expertise?
The Sports Therapy world is a small one. Everyone knows of everyone. For me as a tutor this is great because it allows me to sometimes see from a distance how past and present students are getting on out in the working world beyond the class room, and to me that is very rewarding.
Huge thank you to Chris for taking time to participate in our Meet the Team series. If you would like to find out more about any of our sports courses, you can visit our faculty here.
Find Out More
If you are interested in studying sports at Portobello Institute, get in touch with our admissions advisor Hannah Meade who can support you with any questions. You can book a consultation call at a time that suits you, email hannah.meade@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0029.
