Olympic runner among University's sports stars boosted by scholarship scheme

"Going to Tokyo was a dream come true, but it was also a beginning for me," said Sadam. "Going to Paris, my aim would be higher.

"I'm already an Olympian. I don't want to get ahead of myself, but I would be going to Paris aiming to make the final, and then anything is possible. That's my aim."

Sadam, who works part-time at a Birmingham primary school alongside his athletics and studies, has been awarded 'elite performer' status on the University's Sporting Excellence Scholarship scheme.

Sadam at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo before his appearance in the 400m earlier this year

The scholarship offers up to £3,000 of funding towards competitions, training and equipment over three years, as well as a tailored programme offering everything from nutrition and sports psychology to strength and conditioning or lifestyle support.

"The support I will get from the University going towards my training camp and my travel expenses – something I have been struggling with – is very good to have and will help me a lot personally," he said.

"What the University can offer to support me in my career is something every athlete would love to have. It's a massive boost to me personally, financially and in terms of facilities, plus my lecturers are very understanding of what I'm doing in my career."

"I have a foot in the door," said Matt. "I just have to look after myself and keep doing what I'm doing, stay healthy and injury-free, keep eating and sleeping right."

Having been encouraged to study at University College Birmingham by one of his coaches, Matt now balances his foundation degree studies with spending at least 20 hours per week playing basketball and a further 12 hours per week weight training, while he has also spent time during the Covid-19 pandemic serving as a relief worker for Mencap.

Qualifying for 'talented performer' status on the University's Sporting Excellence Scholarship scheme – which includes up to £1,500 of funding over three years – Matt explained how the support will help him maintain his many commitments.

"The massage support goes a long way, plus the lifestyle support, the strength and conditioning, and the use of the facilities," he said. "Financial support is always good too.

"It's also about having that relationship with the staff who know I'm on a scholarship and pushing for the Olympics in two-and-a-half years, so they understand where I'm coming from and they have been great."