Alexander Powell

Dr Alexander Powell is a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader in Sports Coaching at Birmingham Newman University, within the Faculty of Arts, Society and Professional Studies. He holds a PhD from the University of Leicester and an MSc in Physical Education and Sports Science. His research focuses on mental toughness development in rugby and paralympic athletes, coach education, physical education pedagogy, and increasing children’s physical activity levels through interventions like the SHARP model.

Dr Powell has contributed to national and international coach education programs as a Senior RFU Coach Educator and Assessor. He founded the North Midlands RFU Rugby Coaching Community, fostering collaboration among regional coaches. His work includes a £500,000 funded project for a 3rd Generation Artificial Grass Pitch and the SHARP teaching strategy, which has been evaluated across West Midlands schools. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and actively presents at international conferences on topics like mental toughness and sports pedagogy.

Dr Powell’s research emphasizes applied coaching practices and community impact, bridging academic theory with grassroots sports development. His recent publications analyze physical activity interventions and mental resilience strategies in elite sports contexts.