Kristian Thomas takes on new challenge with University of Wolverhampton degree
Olympic medal-winning gymnast Kristian Thomas has launched a new stage in his career - as he starts a degree at the University of Wolverhampton.
The 27-year-old, who won bronze in London 2012, will be turning his thoughts to academia when he begins a BSc (Hons) Strength and Conditioning course.
Kristian was part of the Team GB's men's gymnastics team at Rio 2016 and will start at the Institute of Sport this month.
Kristian, who trains at Earls Gymnastics club in Halesowen, has been awarded a scholarship by the University to support his sporting career, which he will use to assist with attending domestic and international competitions and sports equipment.
After a short break, Kristian plans to continue with his competitive gymnastic career and will decide which competitions to focus on in January.
He said: "I'm going to be be starting at the University of Wolverhampton at the end of this month over the next three years.
"I am from Wolverhampton so wanted to be local, and I knew I would be looked after at the university, which has fantastic sports facilities.
"It's an exciting time, something new and different but the support I've had from the uni is second to none.
"Doing strength and conditioning is a career path I've been looking into for some time.
"I work with the coaches on a daily basis whether its injury rehab or conditioning programmes so its something I want to be involved with for the future.
"I haven't quite figured out how I'm going to fit it in yet! I'm just going to have to go with the flow at first and once I get my feet on the ground I can build a programme."
The athlete, who is originally from Wolverhampton and now lives in Wimblebury, near Cannock won an Olympic bronze medal as part of the men's gymnastics team at London 2012.
He was a Silver World Championship medallist in 2015, European Champion on Floor 2015 and Commonwealth Games gold medallist 2014.
Most recently he was the team captain of the men's gymnastics team in Rio.
Kay Biscomb, director of the university's Institute of Sport, said: "We are absolutely delighted that Kristian has chosen to study with us.
"His many sporting achievements and experience of competing at the highest level will be a huge inspiration to fellow students."
For more details on the degree go to courses.wlv.ac.uk
