It's silver for Solent sport scholar

Gemma confidently beat competitors in the under 78kg category at the games in Malta, which took place place Thursday 4 to Sunday 7 April. Currently studying for an MSc in Cyber Security Engineering following a BSc in Business Management, Gemma has found her stride at Solent.

Alongside her studies, Gemma is a rising Judo star; in September 2023 she became one of 20 young athletes to become sport scholars at Solent, receiving tailored support when it comes to balancing sport and study.

As a sport scholar, Gemma has access to a package of support; from strength and conditioning to nutrition and physiotherapy. To help her compete in Malta, the University also provided funding to support Gemma's journey to the championships.

At the start of an exciting career, Gemma's latest success follows a trip to Montreal in November 2023, where she competed in the PanAmerican Judo Continental Cup. Receiving expert support from Solent's dedicated Department of Sport and Health to help her make a name for herself in Europe and further afield, Gemma says:

"Solent has really helped me in the process of getting this medal due to the training facilities that are available to me as a sport scholar, and the gym classes that push me hard to get my fitness to the best level it can be."

Gemma's ultimate aim is to compete for Great Britain, a goal supported by two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Kelly Simm, who is now working with Solent to support this year's cohort of scholars. Kelly says:

"Gemma is a fantastic student-athlete and a great role for others pursuing a dual career. She is very diligent with the organisation of her academic and sporting schedules and is a pleasure to support. She is one of the many athletes at Solent who are busy training and competing while completing their academic degrees.

"We are all very proud of Gemma's achievement at this event and know this experience will only help her to go on to achieve even more in the future!"

Find out more about Solent's support for the next generation of sporting talent here.