We interviewed Lauren earlier this year about her experience at the Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast while juggling the new role of being a first time Mum.
Q: What attracted you to volunteering at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games?
A: I saw this as a great opportunity to be involved in international competition and work with a team of medical professionals who share my passion for sport.
Q: How did you get involved as a volunteer?
A: I applied for positions after seeing an advertisement for medical staff. I found out I was successful one day after learning that I was pregnant with our first child.
Q: Is this your first Commonwealth Games?
A: It is my first Commonwealth Games.
Q: Tell us about your role at the Games in 2018?
A: I worked in the poly clinic for a few shifts prior to competition commencing and once the competition got underway I was stationed court side with a doctor and two paramedics. Our role as the field of play medical team was to assist any of the teams physiotherapists with injuries during play if required.
Q: What kind of injuries have you found yourself treating?
A: Luckily there were no injuries during play whilst I was on court. Prior to competition the main injuries I saw were lower limb tendinopathies and some chronic ankle instabilities.
Q: Have you had any unique challenges to deal with?
A: My unique challenge was juggling my Commonwealth Games commitments with caring for my 11 week old daughter. I was lucky enough to have the support of my husband and the rest of the team here to even make this experience a possibility!
Q: What have you learnt so far about working in an elite sporting environment?
A: Some athletes will be managing their body and recurrent injuries to some extent all through the competition. There are also a lot of procedures and formalities to adhere to in this environment.
Q: What would you say to other physiotherapists keen to get involved in future elite sporting events such as the Olympics and Commonwealth Games?
A: It has certainly been a very enjoyable and interesting experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed it myself and loved sharing the experience and knowledge of other practitioners. I think doing something like the games ignites your passion and motivates you to improve your practice as a physio.
