Training brains for peak performance at Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest’s academy players were given a masterclass in training their brains to deliver better performance during a special guest lecture by Loughborough College’s Principal & CEO.

worked as a sports psychologist with elite athletes, professional footballers and Olympians before becoming a leader in further education.

She spoke to the Championship club’s under 18s team about how to master their minds to achieve peak performance as part of the College’s long-standing academic partnership with Forest.

Jo said: “It was fantastic to meet the young players and to talk to them about how the right psychology can make all the difference between winning and losing – regardless of their technical ability.

“As a College, we are so proud to provide the academic input and qualifications for the Nottingham Forest Academy players.

“It is so rewarding to know that our fantastic staff have helped to nurture the careers of current first-team players such as Brennan Johnson.”

The Forest under-18s are currently on a fantastic run in the FA Youth Cup, facing Chelsea in the semi-finals on 4th April following a 3-1 win over Blackburn in the quarter finals.

Chris Caunt, Nottingham Forest’s Head of Education and Welfare, said: "We were absolutely delighted to welcome Jo to the Academy Education session at Nottingham Forest. A fascinating and inspiring session that totally engaged all of the boys. I'm extremely excited to further grow our partnership with Loughborough College and build on the excellent work and achievement since 2018."

Gary Brazil, Nottingham Forest’s Academy Manager, said: "It's great to have Jo and Loughborough College on board with the academy, creating differentiation in the education provision and opportunities within our academy programme."

Loughborough College, one of the UK’s top sports colleges, also runs the academic programmes for Derby County, Leicester City and Leicester City Women’s and Birmingham City. Our former students include England internationals Ben Chilwell, Harvey Barnes and Jude Bellingham.