A Career in Elite Football

After graduating from the University of Essex School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences with a BSc Sport & Exercise Science in 2013 and an MSD Sport & Exercise Science in 2015, Perry Blanchette has built an impressive career in elite football, now serving as First Team Head of Sports Science at Millwall FC.

His journey began at Colchester United, where he spent several years as Head of Academy Sports Science before progressing into a First Team role. Following two seasons working with the first team, he joined Millwall FC as a First Team Physical Performance Coach and is now in his fifth season at the club.

“I chose Essex because the course gave me a strong academic understanding that I could apply in real-life settings,” he explains. “Working within the Human Performance Unit allowed me to develop applied skills and knowledge.”

In his current role, Perry manages the daily training loads of the first team players, oversees GPS and physiological reporting, and leads daily and match-day warm-ups to ensure players are physically prepared to perform.

“Specifically working within the HPU enabled me to practice my skills, interacting and communicating with athletes."

His advice for aspiring sport scientists?

“Get time on task, practice your skills wherever you can. Do this by offering your time for free, develop your soft skills, and building your network. Most importantly, don't give up if you truly want it.”

Looking ahead, his ambition is clear: “My aim is to work at the highest level, albeit in the Premier League and the England Men's National Team, working alongside the best practitioners and players."