Bryce Daub, PhD Student
I am entering my sixth season as the men’s basketball director of strength and performance at the University of Oklahoma. In this role, I oversee program design and implementation for all aspects of performance enhancement.
Before joining the Sooners, I spent the previous four seasons as the strength and conditioning coach for the University of Oregon men’s basketball program. Prior to that, I spent the 2010-11 season as an athletic performance coach with the Oklahoma City Thunder. I earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in exercise science.
After over 10 years in the field, I decided to pursue my PhD. The opportunity to continue my education while being embedded in sport has allowed me to discover new ideas and learn advanced skills. Furthermore, I am stimulated by the excitement of conducting research with the possibility of relevant and impactful outcomes for sport.
My passion and career revolve around athlete management and performance development, and my research is no different. Currently my emphasis is on mental fatigue and its impact on sport specific tasks and physical ability. My thesis is titled ‘Cognitive Fatigue: Effect on Basketball Specific Skill and Physical Performance.’
I chose UTS for many reasons. Most importantly is the mentorship that I am receiving from my supervisors, Distinguished Professor Aaron Coutts and Dr Blake McLean. Their guidance and professional experience within the field has undoubtedly inspired my process and fuelled my intellectual creativity.
Additionally, the structure of the program is perfect for those who are already in a professional setting and seeking a higher degree. The level of resources that UTS has provided are unlike any other, with leading experts in sports science and athlete management, the opportunity unparalleled.
If you’re considering a PhD, my advice is: Find mentors who are as passionate about your process as you are!