Peter Tierney

BSc Health & Performance Science 2014

Peter Tierney is a Health & Performance Coach and Researcher. He is currently working as a Performance Coach in sport, after having worked in the performance apparel industry and professional sport for over 10 years. Peter completed a BSc in Health & Performance Science, and when working afterwards, also completed MSc, ProfDip and PhD degrees in UCD. 

We asked Peter to tell us about his time studying Health & Performance Science at UCD and how it has helped him in his career. Read on to see what he had to say.

What led you to studying the BSc in Health & Performance Science?

I always had a keen interest in supporting others and health & fitness, so this (alongside physiotherapy) were degree options that I considered at UCD.

What was your favourite part of the Health & Performance Science course? 

I loved the mix of lectures, practical sessions and group work. In addition to this, the course allowed me to gain practical experience in the college’s High Performance Gym working with elite athletes, and outside of UCD. Being able to put in practice some of the things I was learning was an amazing way to grow. I also enjoyed the group work, as it allowed me to develop skills working with other people, delegating and organising multiple work streams.

What advice would you give to someone considering studying this course? 

I would absolutely recommend you apply what you are learning in theory to practice, and not be afraid to make mistakes. Be that in organised practical sessions in modules, or in other experiences you seek alongside the course.

What was your experience at UCD like? Any highlights? 

I have very fond memories of my time in UCD, and was fortunate to be able to continue many years of studying after my undergraduate degree whilst working. I met some great people who I often connect with still to this day.

What sports teams did you participate in while at UCD?

I played rugby while I was studying in UCD.

What is your current job?

My current job is working as a performance coach in sport. I have been fortunate to work with in different environments in my career so far - in sport, industry & academia. From an athlete perspective, I have worked with female and male athletes across a range of levels and ages.

How do you feel the Health & Performance Science degree prepared you for this role?

I think the mixed methods of learning (lectures, group work, research, coaching, etc.) all contribute to being a well-rounded practitioner. Those, with the ability to test and apply these in practice, can certainly help for this kind of role.

Describe your typical workday.

I like to share broader reflections from multiple jobs - and I’ve been fortunate that the roles I have held have challenged me in many ways. Problems always arise, and being able to address these quickly but diligently is a common theme in all roles. Meaningfully applying principles from research, science and experience to athletes and ‘consumers’ is a skill that I have to apply every day.

What led you to move from working in sports (rugby and football), to a career in an athletic apparel company?

I have always been curious to experience a wide variety of environments and challenges. A lot of peers have always shared that working in sport has applicable skills to business, and people in each environment can offer value to the other. Moving is a test to myself if I can apply what I have learned in sport, and also open my eyes to new ideas and ways of working that help me grow and gain experience across multiple domains. I’m now working in sport again, so it’s fascinating and challenging to bring learnings from industry to sport too.

What’s the proudest moment of your career to date?

I don’t know if I have one “stand out moment”, but I am proud to have navigated large purposeful changes in my career, and also identify and create unique opportunities. I have met some amazing people that I have stayed in touch with, many of whom are close friends.

What does good health mean to you, in a nutshell?

Good health to me is a journey to a long lifespan & health span. Being able to do the things I want to in life now, and in the future. Being happy, avoiding illness, developing relationships, and enjoyment all together indicate good health to me.

In your career and/or personal life, who have been the most inspiring or helpful mentors/advisers that you’ve had?

Many friends and peers – probably too many to list! I have learned and still continue to learn so much from my family. But I also learn a lot from people that I don’t see as ‘mentors’ – observing behaviours and traits that I know for sure I would not want to live by myself have also helped shape my outlook, as much as the behaviours and traits that I admire in people.

What is life outside work like for you? Tell us a bit about your current life, hobbies, or what you do to relax?

A little bit of everything - gym, running, cycling, and anything in-between. I absolutely love food – both eating out and cooking. And I also travel as much as possible to try experience different cultures, cuisines, and create new memories.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

I can’t pinpoint one specific piece, but I have received plenty of good (and bad) advice. Being able to take and apply what is relevant to me and where I am at is what really matters.

Content added: July 2024