On Thursday 5th March 2026, our sports injury team hosted their first conference exploring the complex relationship between sport, injury and rehabilitation.

The day hosted over a hundred delegates, including a wide variety of individuals involved in sport, supporting rehabilitation and those who  advise when things go wrong. The full-day conference, held at Leeds Marriott Hotel, offered insightful networking to many players, clubs, medical teams, rehabilitation specialists and legal professionals exploring the lessons learnt and opportunities through sport.

Hearing from the experts

We began with a practical discussion from Dr David Sharpe KC, drawing on his experience as both a Consultant in Emergency Medicine and leading sports injury Barrister. From how negligence claims in sport are evaluated to the role of medical evidence in determining duty of care, David highlighted the importance of clarity when medicine and law intersect. The powerful talk highlighted the reality of the increasing scrutiny around concussion and risk.

Next to take the podium, Dr Michael Grey from Loughborough University shared compelling insights into developing safer sport through improved concussion protocols. His engaging talk discussed the process of concussion from brain plasticity and the recovery involved. Highlighting the importance of evidence-led return-to-play decisions, Michael encouraged researchers to consider how evolving science must shape policy.

After a short refreshment break, founder of Heads Up Therapies Ryan Price delivered a friendly conversation around rebuilding life after brain injury. He reminded listeners that recovery is about rebuilding confidence, identity and connection, not just function. From occupational therapy football groups to creative community reintegration, the session demonstrated the significance of sport in a pathway back to independence.

Former professional footballer Clarke Carlisle delivered a moving and honest speech on mental health and the athlete’s journey. As an ambassador for mental health charity Mind, Clarke drew on his professional growth within his career and the emotional toll that followed after injury. Speaking openly about his battle through mental health issues in his adult life, he works to break down the stigma around these issues, particularly in the sport industry.

During the lunch and networking break, STEPS Rehabilitation offered an enlightening demonstration of an augmented reality therapy system, designed to enhance rehabilitation. Delegates were able to explore the opportunities within the system and the unique personalisation options available to meet individual rehabilitation goals.

After lunch, Co-Director of Community Case Management, Maggie Sargent shared how sport can become a powerful vehicle for recovery, inclusion and rebuilding identity after catastrophic injury. From skiing to surfing, her work shows what’s possible when ambition is matched with the right support. She shows the power of specialist rehabilitation following severe injuries through sport and demonstrates that rehabilitation is not about limitation, but opportunity.

Our final talk of the day welcomed Colette Shaw and Sarah Drury from STEPS Prosthetics, who showcased what it takes for amputees to participate in sport. They shared their incredible expertise on holistic approaches to helping amputees return to sport and recreational activities. Their work, support and dedication brings exciting opportunities and new adventures for many amputees.

Making meaningful connections

The venue, Leeds Marriot Hotel, provided a fantastic space for our conference. Lunch and refreshment breaks throughout the day encouraged delegates to absorb the day’s insights and engage in conversations with colleagues and new connections. The day brought together clinicians, barristers, rehabilitation specialists and former professional athletes, all united by one goal: safer sport and better support after industry.

To summarise…

Switalskis Back in Play: For rehabilitation and recovery through sport conference was a well-received and insightful event. Each of our knowledgeable and inspiring speakers presented a wide range of topics for discussion that reflected their expertise and own personal experiences. As our first sports injury conference, we were pleased to see such an impressive turnout stressing the importance of future developments around sport, injury and rehabilitation.

Planning is well underway for our next conference. If you’d like to find out more about our upcoming events, you can join our mailing list here .