"Marjon’s facilities are great” says Wayne Rooney after Argyle testing day at University

Released: 03.07.24

The Plymouth Argyle Football Club team were put to the test by Plymouth Marjon University students today, making the most of the University’s first-class Sport Science Laboratory. The footballers took part in a range of tests to assess key physical performance attributes.

The Club, who maintained their place in the EFL Championship, participated in various tests at the Marjon lab, from range-of-movement exercises to strength and function assessments, helping expert staff build profiles of each player and identify areas for development.

Players were joined by new Head Coach Wayne Rooney, who commented on the University’s lab:

“It’s great, the players come down and can do all the testing to get them back into shape. I’ve been to many of these days, it’s not a great day for the players but the facilities are great, and the footballers appreciate the opportunity to get their testing done.”

Plymouth Marjon University students led the day, using their knowledge and highly developed skills to test the athletes, helping to build a profile of each player and their abilities. Marjon students work with a variety of athletes and teams enabling them to build high-level industry experience. 

The Marjon Sport & Health Centre, home to the lab, has played an integral role in preparing elite athletes for major competitions, including the Rio and Team GB Olympic teams in previous years, and fostering its own students’ talent with some of its sport scholars competing internationally.

Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor at Plymouth Marjon added:

“It’s great to have the Argyle team here today. It gives us an opportunity to showcase our excellent equipment and students, and connect students with experiences in elite sport helping set a course for their future careers.”

Will Jenkins-Davies, midfielder for the Argyle first men’s team said:

“The facilities at Marjon are state-of-the-art and help us to get ready for the season. The tests will have a positive effect on our performance, stopping risks of injuries.”

The lab at Marjon is the only British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) accredited lab in the South West. The University’s lab is home to a range of highly advanced equipment, including an environmental acclimation chamber, anti-gravity treadmill, and isokinetic dynamometer, helping to predict strength, measure power, collect body compositional data, and anaerobic and aerobic capabilities.

If you’re an athlete, coach, club, or individual training for a challenge, see how Marjon can help you reach your goals or achieve a new personal best. Get started here.

If you’re interested in studying sport and health programmes with Marjon and train with elite athletes, find out more here.