Rhianna strikes the balance between studying and cycling

British Cyclist secures Sports Scholarship

Rhianna Parris-Smith is a cyclist for British Cycling and has secured a sports scholarship whilst studying our BA (Hons) Sport Coaching and Coach Development.*

Rhianna chose to study Sport Coaching and Coach Development as she is interested in developing talent in athletes, as well as talent transfer and identification. She was attracted to studying at Derby by the velodrome facility in the city centre, as she knew that she could train alongside her studies. She is currently studying part-time alongside her training and competition schedules with British Cycling.

Obtaining a sports scholarship was appealing to Rihanna, as it provides many benefits to students, ranging from discounted accommodation, tuition fee contributions, gym membership and lifestyle and sports science support services.** The Sports Scholarship programme aims to help talented athletes reach their sporting potential whilst supporting them through their studies. When asked about the best benefits of being a sports scholar, Rhianna replied: “the use of the HPU (Human Performance Unit) and strength and conditioning support are the biggest two, but also having access to performance workshops, physiotherapy support, discounted accommodation, plus lots more is an added bonus!”

Rhianna’s sporting goals are ambitious and The University acknowledges her passion and ability for cycling, she aims to compete at the Commonwealth Games in 2026, as well as in the senior European and World Championships and go to LA for the Olympics in 2028. Our HPU works with a diverse selection of athletes and provides a service that aims to enhance sporting abilities and performance. The team works closely with Rhianna and other British Cycling team members to support them to achieve their aspirations.

First class support

Alongside the support she receives from Team Derby and the Scholarship Team as a sports scholar, she says:

“The lecturers have been amazing in supporting me both academically and in my sport. They do their best to help me navigate through my studies. The facilities are an ideal standard for training as a professional athlete and run by great people, and there's someone always on hand to help you out or answer a question if needed.”

Rhianna recommends that students considering studying at the University of Derby should visit the campus at an Open Day. She advises, “talk to the tutors because I’m sure that once you speak to them your decision will be made and you’ll know which university is best for you. I can honestly say the support this university has to offer is unique and exceptional and something that I fail to see anywhere else.” 

Words of advice

She backed this up by saying:

“The university provides so many internal and external coaching opportunities, through which you gain the experience to make you stand out, and enable you to be better prepared for your future career plans through an understanding of different areas and roles.”

When asked if she would recommend the University of Derby as a place to study and train, Rhianna replied “Yes, one hundred percent! The level of support you receive is next to none. Team Derby and the Scholarship Team are incredibly supportive and you are in regular contact with your tutors, always figuring out the best way for you to work and get the most out of you. They care about you as a person and an athlete, and make sure they understand every students’ unique circumstances so they can best support you as an individual. I can honestly say the support that the University of Derby has to offer is exceptional, on a level that I have not seen elsewhere.”

*This course is now named BA (Hons) Sport Coaching and Coach Development

** Support is dependent on which sports scholarship package is secured