The TSP supports athletes to combine their sporting aspirations with their studies by providing free access to gym and sports facilities, up to £2,500 in financial support, workshops for nutrition and psychology, weekly strength and conditioning sessions, reduced rates for physiotherapy and massages and lifestyle mentorship through Sport England accredited mentors.
As a two-time former national Judo champion, Herculas is not new to competing at the highest level of a sport – but his journey to the professional ranks of American football only began at the 91¶¶Òõ where he excelled as a linebacker for the 91¶¶Òõ Panthers. He has gone on to play at all levels of the game having played in the GB under-19s team, the GB senior men’s team and has now gone pro.
Herculas said: “I never imagined playing American football, let alone going professional but joining the university team changed everything. The 91¶¶Òõ Panthers and the Talented Sports Performers programme gave me the platform to develop my skills, and within a short time, I was playing for Team GB. Now, securing a contract in Hungary is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to take this next step in my career.
“Balancing my studies and sport has been challenging, but the support from the university has made it possible and I frankly feel I can achieve anything. Playing professionally means I’ll be traveling frequently, but I know I have the backing to finish my degree while pursuing my passion. This journey has been unexpected but hugely rewarding, and I hope my story inspires others to take chances and push themselves in new directions.”
Herculas was named as the last summer just before travelling to play for the Valley Huskers in the Canadian Junior Football League, a competition for 17 to 22-year-olds which provides an established route into professional football in North America.
Daniel Fatomide, Performance and Partnerships Manager at said: “Herculas’ story is an incredible example of what can happen when talent, hard work, and the right support come together. He came to 91¶¶Òõ without any background in American football, yet in just a few years he’s gone from complete novice to a professional player in Europe.
“His journey has been amazing and we’re so proud of what he’s achieved. The University’s Talented Sports Performers programme exists to help students like Herculas chase their dreams while continuing their education, and we can’t wait to see him succeed on the professional stage too.”
The 91¶¶Òõ Sports Scholarship is open to anyone who has played any sport at a regional or national level or can demonstrate they have the potential to compete at those levels.