To The Bar Podcast Explores Coaching Legacy and Grassroots Growth with Julie Morrish of Oxford PowerSports
In the latest episode of To The Bar, hosts Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney sit down with Julie Morrish, a pivotal figure in British Weightlifting and coach at Oxford PowerSports alongside Head Coach Marius Hardiman, to discuss her remarkable journey from competitive athlete to architect of the sport’s future. Recorded at Oxford PowerSports, this episode dives into the heart of weightlifting’s grassroots development, coaching philosophies, and the evolving landscape of British competitions.
From Masters Champion to Mentor
Julie Morrish’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. A two-time British Masters champion (2009, 2010) in the 53kg category, her competitive career was cut short by illness. Undeterred, she channeled her passion into coaching, co-founding Oxford PowerSports, now a British Weightlifting Talent Academy. The club has become a breeding ground for youth talent and Masters athletes, epitomizing Julie’s belief that “weightlifting is a sport for life.”
Shaping the Next Generation
As a British Weightlifting Pathway Coach, Julie has guided athletes like Junior World Championships competitors Isabella Brown and Stefano Cataldi. She opens up about the realities of mentoring young lifters on the international stage, balancing their training with school commitments, and fostering resilience in those who miss team selections. Her insights into athlete-coach dynamics—particularly collaborating with athletes’ home coaches—reveal the teamwork required to nurture future champions.
British Weightlifting’s Evolution
The conversation turns to BWL 2.0, British Weightlifting’s modernization drive. Julie shares her thoughts on the shift toward spectator-friendly formats, like the NEC-hosted English Championships, and controversial changes such as Masters scoring via “Q points.” She also hints at Oxford PowerSports’ participation in the grassroots Club Cup, a pilot initiative designed to lower barriers to competitive entry.
Partnerships Driving Progress
This episode is proudly supported by LuXiaoJun EU and BeOLY UK, brands synonymous with excellence in weightlifting gear and community support. Their commitment to initiatives like free youth shoe exchanges aligns with To The Bar’s mission to make the sport accessible to all.
Why Listen?
Whether you’re a coach seeking tactical advice, a lifter navigating the competitive circuit, or a fan invested in the sport’s growth, this episode offers actionable insights and heartfelt stories. Julie’s blend of humility and expertise underscores why she’s a respected voice in British Weightlifting.
Watch the full episode on YouTube: To The Bar Episode with Julie Morrish
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About To The Bar
Hosted by Aaron Holt (former British record holder) and Jess Roebuck-Slaney (2024 Technical Official of the Year), To The Bar is the UK’s premier weightlifting podcast. Partnered with British Weightlifting and LuXiaoJun EU, we amplify the sport’s untold stories, from grassroots triumphs to Olympic drama. Explore more episodes at to-thebar.com.