Former England football physio inspires Sport students with career insights

Students studying Sport and Sport & Exercise Science at New City College Epping Forest and Havering Sixth Form campuses were given a fascinating insight into the world of elite football when former England and Arsenal Head Physio Gary Lewin visited to talk about his incredible career.

Gary gave an entertaining presentation followed by a Q&A session, explaining how he first qualified as a physiotherapist in a London hospital before breaking into the sport sector. He shared stories of the famous players he has supported throughout the years, the high-profile injuries he has treated and gave valuable guidance on the education pathways required to work in the top tiers of football.

Although he once dreamed of becoming a professional player himself – having signed for Arsenal FC at the age of 16 – Gary explained that when his contract wasn’t renewed two years later, it set him on a new and ultimately life-changing path. He returned to education to take A Levels and then trained as a chartered physiotherapist at Guy’s Hospital in London, before returning to Arsenal as a physio, where his career ‘blossomed from there’.

His impressive journey has since seen him occupy some of the biggest roles in football – spending more than two decades with Arsenal, working as the England Men’s National Team Lead Physio, and heading Physiotherapy Services for the FA. He has also supported West Ham United, Arsenal Women’s Football Squad and runs his own Lewin Sports Injury Clinic.

Gary was open about the challenges of working in elite sport, describing the pressure, intense schedule and personal sacrifices involved. He said that despite travelling the world and enjoying top-level experiences, he often had to miss important family occasions, including weddings and Christmas Days, and work long hours. However, he told students he would never have swapped the opportunity to work at the top of his profession.

He encouraged students to gain as much experience as possible to stand out in what is a very competitive career field. Volunteering at events, gaining additional qualifications such as massage therapy, and showing a passion for helping others were just some of his top tips. He also highlighted the growing opportunities within the women’s game for nutritionists, sports scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, psychologists and more.

Students were inspired by the session, with one commenting: “It was cool to have Gary come and talk to us. He gave us so much good advice and it was interesting to hear about his life working with the players and the England and Arsenal teams.”

If you’re passionate about sport and want to explore a future career in the fast-paced sports industry – whether in coaching, performance, therapy, or sports science – apply now to study Sport at New City College and start your journey!