Adam Nichol

Adam Nichol is a Researcher in the Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation at Northumbria University, joining in January 2023 after roles at Durham University and Manchester Metropolitan University. His research focuses on enhancing the influence of sport practitioners (coaches, officials) on wellbeing, social development, and performance through CPD programs. Collaborations include Manchester City FC’s City in the Community, British Cycling, and UK Coaching. He addresses systemic issues like match official attrition, working with The FA, UEFA, and PGMOL. Nichol also serves on CRiC’s Executive Board and explores research philosophy, particularly critical realism.

Education includes a Sociology PhD (2020), PGCLTHE, BSc Sports Science (Hons), and FHEA. As a National Group Assistant Referee in football and Cricket Coach, his experiences inform teaching across modules. Research highlights include policy enactment in community coaching and emotional challenges faced by referees.

Publications span coaching influence, athlete outcomes, and match official retention. Professional activities include peer reviews for journals like Sport, Education and Society and presentations on coach education and political astuteness.