Every so often, a story emerges in sport that reminds us why we do what we do. Megan Sng’s journey with Nova Centurion and the University of Nottingham is one of those stories, one of resilience, determination, and the power of the right environment.
A Life-Changing Accident
While studying Medicine at the University of Nottingham and training with Nova Centurion, Megan’s world was turned upside down when she suffered a serious cycling accident on Derby Road. The crash left her with a fractured spine at L1, the first lumbar vertebra, a crucial weight-bearing bone at the base of the spine that plays a vital role in mobility and stability. Doctors feared the worst. To survive was one thing; to walk again was another. Swimming again seemed almost impossible. Yet Megan never lost hope. As she herself put it:
‘I was lucky to have survived and not been paralysed, thanks to my helmet.’
Turning Setback into Determination
For many athletes, such an accident would have ended their sporting careers. But for Megan, it became a defining moment, a chance to fight back.
Support and Recovery
As a Nova Centurion scholarship athlete, she had the full backing of our coaches, the support of the University of Nottingham, and some fantastic teammates. Together, they worked step by step to tailor her training, rebuild her strength, and restore her confidence. Each session was carefully monitored and progressed at the right pace, with the goal not just of getting her back in the water, but back to performance swimming.
Balancing Medicine and Elite Sport
Balancing the demands of a Medicine degree at the University of Nottingham with elite-level training is rare; doing so while recovering from a fractured spine is extraordinary. Through sheer determination and the support of Nova’s scholarship programme, Megan managed both, proving that it is possible to chase excellence in study and sport simultaneously.
Back on the International Stage
Her fitness and confidence grew steadily. Training volumes increased, technique sharpened, and before long she was preparing once again for international competition. This year, that preparation was rewarded when Megan proudly represented Hong Kong at the World University Games in Berlin. From hospital bed to global stage, the journey was nothing short of remarkable, proof of what can happen when talent, resilience, and the right support system come together.
A Milestone for Nova Centurion
By stepping onto the international stage, Megan became the 148th athlete from Nottinghamshire’s County swim squad pathway to represent their country. That milestone reflects more than just numbers; it speaks to a culture and a programme built on resilience, opportunity, and belief. Nova Centurion has always been about more than medals; it is about creating an environment where athletes can overcome challenges and achieve their full potential, no matter the obstacles in their way.
Looking Ahead
Today, Megan is back to full fitness. She is determined to keep competing at the elite level, chasing new opportunities to represent internationally while also pursuing her demanding medical studies. Having already shown such resilience and drive, we are excited to see what the future holds for her, both in the pool and beyond. Megan’s story is still being written, and if the past is anything to go by, the next chapters promise to be every bit as remarkable.
