Superstars of the sporting world could soon be receiving treatment from a new generation of performance experts trained in the Highlands.
Inverness College UHI has announced that it is launching a new specialist course on helping athletes reach their potential.
The soft tissue therapy HNC is beginning in September following “increasing demand” for the skill in the north.
Students will benefit from the teachings of qualified physiotherapist Steven Sutherland, who has in the past lent his skills to the NHS, professional athletes and Highland League football clubs.
He will be supported by Inverness College UHI beauty lecturer Tracey Shand, who will deliver the clinical sports massage module throughout the year.
Mr Sutherland said: “The new course will involve hands-on application, ensuring the students are best prepared to participate in sport, aid the performance of athletes and treat any injuries that might occur.
“It will be based around sports massage, exercise therapy and fitness testing, as well as the underpinning knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and common injuries and diseases.
“The demand for the skill has been steadily increasing over the past decade, and it’s great to bring the course to the Highlands and increase career opportunities for local people.”
One athlete benefitting from soft tissue therapy is 29-year-old Inverness College UHI student, I?aki Fernanino Soto, who hopes to become a sports coach.
He said: “I’m really passionate about playing football, having played for a third division team in my native Spain and currently for Strathspey Thistle.
“Throughout my footballing career, I have received various physiotherapy sessions, mainly for muscular injuries. I’m currently receiving treatment on my shoulder and neck, and have undergone two deep tissue therapy massage sessions so far.
“My range of movement, which was restricted before, has already significantly improved.”
