Congratulations to Harrison Saleeba!
August 15,
2024 215 215 
Congratulations to Harrison Saleeba who won the SASMA Sports and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Award at last months Flinders University Nursing & Health Sciences Award Ceremony. Read about Harry's journey with SASMA, and his future plans, below.
How were you introduced to SASMA and how did you get involved initially? What were your goals early on?
I was introduced to SASMA during my undergraduate studies when an opportunity arose to join my local SANFL club, Glenelg FC, as a sports trainer. I attended SASMA's Level 1 trainer course and quickly found a passion for the role. After a year, I wanted to further my learning and completed my Level 2 qualification. Initially, I became a sports trainer to get a start in the medical side of sport, which had always been a keen interest of mine. Having not been involved in sport for a few years, I was eager to get back into it, not realising that a sports trainer pathway could lead me to experiences such as holding the SANFL premiership cup or running on the MCG in front of 60,000 people.
How did you feel these connections and practical experience helped you in your physio studies, and then entering the workforce?
The experiences I’ve had as a sports trainer have been invaluable in my studies and work. They taught me to think on my feet while being as prepared and organised as possible. My taping and first aid skills were greatly enhanced beyond the brief training during my degree, which has been key as I begin work as a physiotherapist in both clinic and sports settings. The connections I’ve made have played a significant role in shaping me as a professional, and I continue to seek advice from them even now.
Tell us more on the importance of building the connections within the sports medicine community and how valuable this was?
Building connections within the sports medicine community has been incredibly valuable and rewarding. Working in sport, I’ve made some of my closest friends and met mentors who have been key to my learning and development. Through my time with Glenelg and Port Adelaide I made numerous connections including sports trainers, physios, sports doctors and S&C coaches to provide me with a vast network of contacts I wouldn't have made otherwise.
Another example is meeting Kath and Nick Chigwidden at Glenelg, which led me to my current clinic role at PhysioXtra.
Mat Prior, heavily involved with SASMA, was a massive help in my degree as well, as he taught musculoskeletal topics in my master's and had experience in sport. Through SASMA events, I was also introduced to Dr. James Ilic, whose expertise I now frequently consult on sports injuries through my work with Football SA.
Do you have any advice for a first-year allied health student, on getting involved with SASMA and where this can take them?
My advice would be to get involved! You can only learn so much in the classroom, so go out, get your SASMA Level 1 sports trainer accreditation, and gain practical experience with a local sporting club. The people you meet, the experiences you have, and what you learn can lead you anywhere. I’d also recommend attending as many SASMA events as you can to learn from many experts and connect with like-minded individuals at the events.
Where are you working currently and what are your goals/ambitions for the future?
I’m currently working in the clinic with Physioxtra at their Hallett Cove location and loving every minute of being a practicing physio. You’ll also find me every weekend working with Football SA’s junior boys’ teams, particularly the U15s and U16s, and assisting with Adelaide United’s NPL sides. Looking ahead, I want to continue learning from my peers and experiences to soak up as much knowledge as possible and advance in the world of football. One day, I hope to make the move to England to pursue my dream of becoming a physio in the EPL. Another not-so-small goal is to one day work with the Socceroos, helping Australia’s National team excel on the biggest stage of all, at a FIFA World Cup.
Any final comments?
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve received from SASMA, Flinders University, and everyone I've met along the way. These experiences have shaped the beginning of my career and fuelled my passion for sports medicine. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and contributing to the field!
Congratulations Harry!