Matthew Wright

Matthew Wright is a Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics & Strength Conditioning at Teesside University's SHLS Life Sciences Centre for Rehabilitation. He holds dual accreditation as an Accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist (BASES) and Strength and Conditioning Coach (UKSCA). His research focuses on applied biomechanics in soccer, particularly youth athlete development and environmental factors influencing performance. He currently supervises eight PhD students and has collaborated with global organizations like Middlesbrough FC, Inter Miami CF, and the FA Emerging Talent Centre for Girls' Football.

• Education: PhD in Physical Development of Youth Soccer Players (2018)

Research interests include optimizing physical development programs, testing methodologies for academy players, and accessibility to talent pathways for disadvantaged youth. He leads physical development programs for Teesside Sports FA Girls’ Emerging Talent Centre since 2011.

Recent articles emphasize aerobic capacity testing, biomechanical analysis of strength training, and surface-based training adaptations. His work bridges academic research with practical applications in elite sports.

• Grants: Director of a £ project evaluating access to talent programs for disadvantaged youth (Sport England, 2022–2026) and a systematic review on temperature/altitude effects on team sports performance.

Labs/Teams: Active in Teesside University’s FA Emerging Talent Centre and collaborates with Major League Soccer clubs in North America.