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About the Podcast

The Backroom
Putting the spotlight on staff in the shadows.
The Backroom is a captivating podcast that pulls back the curtain on the often-overlooked individuals who make the world of sports run smoothly. While athletes and teams are in the spotlight, this podcast brings attention to the crucial roles played by coaches, trainers, physiotherapists, nutritionists, statisticians, equipment managers, and all those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Each episode features in-depth conversations with these unsung heroes, giving them the platform to share their personal stories, challenges, and the dedication they pour into their work.

The podcast explores the behind-the-scenes processes that drive athletic success, from designing training regimens and injury prevention strategies to managing the mental and emotional well-being of athletes. It sheds light on the importance of team dynamics, the strategic decisions made off the field, and how local clubs operate in the community. The conversations highlight the human side of sports, focusing on the deep, often unseen connections that go into helping athletes perform at their best, and how these roles evolve in the fast-paced world of professional sports.

By uncovering these stories, From The Backrooms offers a fresh perspective on the sports industry, moving beyond the fame and fortune of athletes to explore the hard work, collaboration, and sacrifice that take place behind the scenes. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or simply curious about what happens off the field, court or hall, this podcast will open your eyes to the vital support systems that enable athletes and local clubs to thrive, giving you a deeper understanding of the world of sports.

About your hosts

James Sowden

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I am a young and eager journalist who just wants to learn about the sporting world in every way I can! From the obvious to the obscure, I strive to cover every blade of fact or fiction sport has to offer.

Elliott Vaughan

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As an amateur sports journalist, I am working hard to adapt to the landscape and I'm willing to try my hand at any role in the sports media industry. Whether it's video, audio or written, I'll do my best to shed light on the sporting stories both big and small.

Sheffield Hallam

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Sheffield Hallam University

Tom Derry

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Hi, I'm Tom.

I'm a sports journalism student who is partaking in "The Backroom" podcast. I am very passionate about sports and want to learn all I possibly can about it, and one way I am doing that is through this podcast which has allowed me to take a peak behind the curtains of sport.