22 October 2012

UKA has today announced the appointment of renowned sports psychiatrist Dr Steve Peters to the UKA Performance team.

Peters, who has spent the last decade working as an integral member of the successful British Cycling team, is the first significant hire under the leadership of UKA’s Performance Director Neil Black.

Dr Peters will work closely with Black on driving forward the winning culture of the sport, as well as focusing on selected athletes. He will also lead a team of handpicked sports psychologists who will work with all athletes on the World Class Performance Programme.

World and Olympic Champions Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton have both credited Dr Peters with having played a significant role in their success. Dr Peters, who will continue to work with British Cycling in a consultancy role, met the British athletics team for the first time on Friday.

Commenting on his appointment Dr Peters, a former Masters World Record holder in 200m, said:

“I’m very excited to be joining the British athletics team and I am looking forward to working with the coaches and athletes on the road to Rio.

“It’s a fantastic time to be involved in athletics and Neil Black is a great appointment as Performance Director. I will work hard to support him as he strives to maximise the team’s performance over the next four years.”

Neil Black, UKA Performance Director said:

“We are delighted to welcome Steve to the team, he is undoubtedly one of the world’s best sports psychiatrists. He will add significant value and we must harness his expertise as we move forward and build towards greater success in the coming Olympic cycle.”

Also joining Dr Peters on the UKA sports psychology team are Sarah Broadhead and Dr Neville Warnke.