Old Derbeian, Strength and Conditioning Coach with the English Institute of Sport (EIS), runs master

Old Derbeian Tom Rusga returned to his alma mater today to run a masterclass as part of his role as Strength and Conditioning Coach with the English Institute of Sport (EIS).

Tom joined Derby Grammar School in Year 3 and went on to play for the academy at Newport Gwent Dragons Rugby Club and travelled to South Wales to train whilst still studying here in Derby.  After his GCSEs he went to the school (Llandovery College) of the current Welsh captain, Alun Wyn Jones, before moving on to Cardiff Met where he studied Sport and Exercise Science.  Since graduating Tom has taken up various roles within the world of Strength and Conditioning and now works with the GB rowing squad within the EIS, based at Bisham Abbey.

Tom still has a close relationship with our school, and this week joined an examination PE lesson. Pupils were able to tap into Tom’s expert knowledge in terms of designing, implementing and testing fitness programmes at an elite level.  Understanding how cutting edge sports science is used to improve performance at an elite level will give the students a headstart as they complete their GCSEs or A levels and, for some, who commence a sports related degree in the Autumn.

A special thanks for Tom, who took time out of his busy schedule, to help and support our pupils’ learning