Dr Pip Thomas

01/10/2026

Like all student-athletes some days missing family hits but key imo is to move and remind yourself these opportunities (and challenges) won't be their everyday. So get comfortable being out of your comfort zone and enjoy the moments.

Off to Michigan on a research visit and to see a few sites along the way.

30/09/2026

Feeling the pressure? It's time to reflect on what truly drives us. 🌟

Whether you're a student-athlete, parent, or coach, understanding the "why" behind the effort is key. Dive into honest reflection and find alignment in your journey.

Discover tools to support your path with our digital workbooks.

Looking for a bit more 1:1 leadership - DM me - Dr Pip

Link in bio for more insights. 📚 Dr Pip Thomas

20/09/2026

Reflections of my first ever live game:

What blew me the way the most was the sheer number of players, cheerleaders, band-members on the field. What a spectacle.

As a researcher and practitioner in athlete career transitions, this is my favourite place to be right in amongst it.

Here from New Zealand, making the most of my Fulbright scholarship to soak it all up and build my knowledge and experience about student-athlete college pathways.

Dr Pip.

AUT Sport

20/09/2026

Watching my first college football game was a big kick. Here in the US studying student-athletes, and as anyone who knows me will testify, these are the environments I feel the most energised.

To be honest, I didn't think I would get a ticket, it was family weekend, and a sold out crowd, so when I walked up to the ticket counter I was stoked. Just goes to prove you don't know unless you ask.

I had to ask the friendly family next to me to explain a few rules. What blew me the way the most - was the sheer number of players, cheerleaders, band members on the field. It is a massive undertaking for those involved. The redbird spirit was electric.

As a Kiwi diving into American culture and college sport, this experience was more than a game; it was an exploration.

Was my first, but definitely won't be my last :)

30/08/2026

Scholar life - another day another amazing historical building and university. Great visit with the track and field staff 🙏

The Fulbright Program

27/08/2026

Soaking up the opportunity of finding myself in Rhode Is.

Back to Illinois Saturday.

Px

26/08/2026

A little story about me and my fulbright project in the US on AUT News.

A collaboration between , and . So far so good👍.

Any kiwi student-athletes in US College systems who are open to participate - please DM me 🙏

SPRINZ research associate Dr Pip Thomas has won a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, the first person from Sport, Exercise & Health to receive the award.

25/08/2026

Standing at the gates of Brown (on a ghost tour).

Over the past week I've walked more than a few miles and caught a lot of buses and trains. Wandering around Boston and Providence you cant help but be in awe of the architecture and history.

It's been a week of moments and pivots - some letdowns - some unexpected highlights.

What I've learnt: The tighter you hold on to expections and plans the more you struggle. The 🔑 to go with the flow and take a step in any direction and things will work themselves out.

Walking in the steps of student-athletes.
Dr Px