Professional in the Spotlight - Lindsay Bull

Lindsay Bull is the Gold Coast Suns Head Physiotherapist. Here his role is to coordinate the medical program for the GC Suns, working within a multi-disciplinary team to provide management of elite AFL athletes.

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What sparked you interest in moving to the UK to work and travel for 4 years?

The major influences were twofold- expand my life experiences and different perspectives / biases in my career. Initially, working in private practice- the travel opportunities in Europe were fantastic. Physiotherapy provided a stimulating day job that allowed me to travel extensively on weekends. Secondarily, working in Football, Cricket and the Olympic Games allowed me to travel with work as well as develop my skills in highly specialised environments. The challenge of working in multiple sports at the elite level added to both my clinical skillset as well as build my collaboration and relationships with various stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

What is the most interesting part of your current work as the Head Physiotherapist at the Gold Coast Suns?

The most interesting and rewarding part is helping athletes return to performance. Fortunately, we get to see injuries on field, have a vital role in their rehabilitation, then work closely with them for return to performance.

Your work history has a strong focus on working in sport, what drew you to this industry and what makes you stay?

I’ve always had a love for sport, then once I’d started to work with elite athletes, seeing the difference we can contribute makes it rewarding. The people are what makes me stay- working in the AFL allows us to see kids at 18 start their journey in sport and adult life- then seeing them develop into really good people is what I enjoy.

What are 3 tips for young professionals and students wanting to work in elite sport?

Work hard

Build strong relationships

Always keep learning and growing through a variety of experiences

Working for an AFL club is almost 24/7 job, what do you do when you get some time off?

I have 2 little boys under 3- and when I get time, I love spending it with them, my wife and our dog. We get to the beach, go bike riding and fishing whenever we get a chance.