Visiting Professor boost for globally impactful youth sport development research 

The School of Science, Technology and Health welcomes Professor Stephen Cobley from the University of Sydney.

The School of Science, Technology and Health at York St John University says the work of a new Visting Professor will be a ‘powerful catalyst’ for research impact on youth sport populations globally. 

Professor Steve Cobley is a world-renowned leader in youth sport and multi-disciplinary athlete development. He joins York St John as a visiting professor from the School of Exercise and Sport, Faculty of Medicine & Health, at the University of Sydney, for an initial period of 3 years. Professor Cobley's primary research interests examine developmental factors that constrain learning, development, and performance across sport, educational, and workplace settings. 

As Professor of Exercise & Sport Science, Steve brings over 20 years' experience in higher education and an extensive research portfolio including over 150 published papers and book chapters.  

His research and applied work have led to the evaluation, modification and writing of athlete development programs and policy in collaboration with several sporting organisations. He has also designed online coach development modules for sporting organisations. In one current project, called Project H2grOw, he is working with Swimming Australia, targeting how youth swimmers can be more accurately evaluated and optimally developed.  

This expertise makes Professor Cobley a valuable addition to the Interdisciplinary sports performance and injury research (InSPIRe) group at York St John. This research cluster combines applied interdisciplinary expertise and knowledge from academic staff and postgraduate research students in sports injury and sports performance. 

Dr Jamie Salter, Senior Lecturer in Sport Science and Injury and InSPIRe group lead, said:  

“We are thrilled to announce that Professor Cobley, a world-renowned leader in talent identification and athlete development, has joined York St John University and the InSPIRe Group. 

“Professor Cobley brings an outstanding record of generating evidence-based knowledge and, crucially, translating it directly into impactful professional practice across sport. 

“His presence will serve as a powerful catalyst, significantly accelerating the InSPIRe Group's mission to produce the next generation of world-leading research - research that is specifically designed to create a profound and positive impact on youth sport populations globally.” 

Professor Stephen Cobley said: 

“I’m delighted and honoured to be appointed as a Visiting Professor at York St John University. I admire the University’s commitment toward impactful research, student-centred inspired teaching, and community engagement. 

“I look forward to collaborating with senior colleagues, early-career researchers, and students in the York St John community.” 

Stephen Cobley | About | The University of Sydney 

Interdisciplinary sports performance and injury | York St John University 

Sport | York St John University