SAINTS captain Jonny Lomax has added an off-field title to his list of playing successes.

The long-serving number six today graduated with First Class Honours in Physiotherapy from the University of Salford – the culmination of a long period of study grabbed in between the demands of full time rugby league.

It has been quite a whirlwind career and since returning from significant ACL injuries he has played in four victorious Super League Grand Finals, a Challenge Cup and a World Cup Challenge.

It was his injury curse that prompted Lomax to start studying for a new career – but the his professional career and University course have dovetailed with success in both.

Lomax said: “I began the course at Salford believing I may have to retire after suffering my third ACL injury.

“Having experienced a variety of physical setbacks in my time physiotherapy was something that really interested me.

“The knowledge I have gained has helped me massively in terms of my return to the sport and continued playing.

“Whilst being in professional sport the course has provided a level of understanding as to what was going on with my body enabling me to prepare and play well and – most importantly - keep myself on the field.

“The tutors at Salford have been fantastic. They have been super flexible to make sure I could compete at the highest level and carry on with my studies when I needed to. I owe them huge thanks.”

Bethan Haeney, Jonny’s Course Leader said: “As a programme team, we are hugely proud of Jonny.

“His hard work and tenacity have been reflected in his degree classification. We are in awe of his achievements - juggling his degree, his club, national and international rugby career and family life, always with a smile and warm regard. Many congratulations Jonny! We look forward to following your future successes.”

The University of Salford’s Physiotherapy course is one of the most popular in the country, especially with professional sportspeople and elite athletes.

Rebecca McGowan, who will be competing at this year’s Olympics as part of Team GB’s Taekwondo team, is another high- profile undergraduate, currently in her third year of study.

The lecturers and practitioners leading the course are well used to working with top level professionals and offer a part time option, which can accommodate even the most demanding training and performance schedules.