Appliance of Science

Arguably, at its best, football can be an art form - but science is behind it.

Steve Cuggy, manager of Blue Square Bet North club Blyth Spartans has extended the breadth of knowledge in his back room staff by appointing a Sport Scientist to help bring the best out of his new squad.

Anna Wilkie, who has a degree in Sport and Exercise Science and who is working on a research degree in the subject, has started to work with the Spartans players.

"It's great to have Anna on board," said Cuggy. "She will be introducing a variety of fitness techniques, which are commonly applied across the professional game, during our training sessions twice during the pre-season, then again at the turn of the year and finally at the end of the season. She will also be able to work with players on a one to one basis.
"I am keen to explore any methods to develop and improve the squad and sport science can be a valuable tool".