The Society of Sports Therapists (The SST), in partnership with Transplant Sport UK, is delighted to announce the recipients of the 2027 World Transplant Games Travelling Scholarship Award.
Congratulations to Chloe Smith, Mike Westall and Fern Edgar, who will join the experienced Transplant Sport Therapy Team in supporting athletes at the World Transplant Games in Leuven, Belgium, next summer.
Following an exceptionally strong response to the call for applications and a series of outstanding interviews, the selection panel made the decision to award scholarships to two Student Members alongside one Graduate Member.
Alison Bloxham, Lead Therapist for Transplant Sport said: “The quality of applications and the standard of candidates throughout the interview process made this a particularly difficult decision. The successful applicants demonstrated enthusiasm for Sports Therapy, a commitment to professional development and a genuine interest in supporting transplant athletes.”
Meet the scholarship recipients
Chloe Smith | Graduate Member
Chloe is a graduate Sports Therapist working full-time in football at Hednesford Town Football Club Academy and part-time with Sporting Khalsa Women FC.
Having previously volunteered at the British Transplant Games, Chloe brings both relevant experience and a personal connection to Transplant Sport. Her father received a life-saving organ transplant, making the opportunity to support people who have been given a second chance at life particularly meaningful to her.
Chloe is passionate about using her skills and experience to give back and support athletes through their sporting journeys.
Mike Westall | Student Member
Mike is retraining as a Sports Therapist following 23 years of military service, including 11 years as a nurse. He is currently completing an MSci and working towards establishing a practice that brings together rehabilitation and performance.
His long-term ambitions include working with athletes, everyday people and older adults, as well as contributing to professional sports medical teams. His interests include rugby, sports rehabilitation, return-to-play and strength and conditioning for older adults and people with metabolic health needs.
The scholarship will provide Mike with an opportunity to build on his existing experience while developing his practice within an international sporting environment.
Fern Edgar | Student Member
Fern is a Level 6 Student Sports Therapist at Buckinghamshire New University. Her primary placement experience has been in men’s rugby across Berkshire, where she has gained experience of a wide variety of musculoskeletal (MSK) issues. Alongside her studies, Fern works as a children’s sports coach, competes in rugby for Henley Hawks Women and plays volleyball for her university.
Fern is excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the Therapy Team at the 2027 World Transplant Games through the Travelling Scholarship Award.
Looking ahead to Leuven 2027
The scholarship recipients will join the Transplant Sport Therapy Team at the World Transplant Games, taking place in Leuven, Belgium, from 1–8 August 2027. They will travel directly from the British Transplant Games, which take place in Birmingham from 29 July to 1 August 2027.
Working alongside experienced therapists, Chloe, Mike and Fern will have the opportunity to contribute to the assessment and treatment of injuries, provide sports massage and recovery support, and help athletes prepare for and participate in competition.
The Games celebrate the achievements of transplant recipients, showcase the life-changing impact of organ transplantation and raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donation.
For the scholarship recipients, the experience will offer valuable professional development in an international multi-sport environment, as well as the opportunity to contribute to a cause that has a meaningful impact on individuals and communities.
Simon Bowen, SST CEO said: “The SST looks forward to supporting Chloe, Mike and Fern on their journey towards Leuven and sharing more about their experiences in the lead-up to the Games.
Our sincere thanks to Sheila Leddington Wright and Alison Bloxham from Transplant Sport UK, alongside Thomas Hames for their support. Their contribution, alongside the expertise and commitment of everyone involved, helped make the process such a positive and valuable experience.”
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