Yesterday marked four years since my separation.
It’s a milestone that carries both pain and perspective.
In that time, I’ve missed moments with my children that I’ll never get back — birthdays, school events, everyday laughter. Those absences will always ache. But with time has come clarity, and I’ve realised that healing isn’t about erasing what happened; it’s about rebuilding who you are after it.
Life looks very different now. I have a loving partner, healthy kids, a career that challenges and fulfils me, and a renewed sense of purpose. Yet a part of me will always wish my children could be home with us full-time.
Divorce has taught me hard lessons about fairness, resilience, and grace. Sometimes, the people who work hardest to hold things together still lose parts of what matters most. But strength isn’t always about control — it’s about how we show up, love, and lead through what we can’t control.
If you’re navigating something similar — personally or professionally — know that growth often begins in the space between grief and acceptance.
If you need assistance, please reach out. You can also access services via Beyond Blue, Lifeline Australia,
🌟 Career Milestone – 1000 Citations 🌟
I’m excited to share that my research has now been cited over 1,000 times on Google Scholar.
This milestone is more than just a number—it reflects years of collaboration, persistence, and the ongoing drive to contribute knowledge that makes a difference.
I’m deeply grateful to my co-authors, colleagues, students, and the wider research and sporting communities who have supported and engaged with this work. Each citation represents not only the impact of past projects but also motivation to continue bridging the gap between science and practice.
Here’s to the next chapter of research, collaboration, and impact! 🚀
#Research #SportScience #StrengthTraining #AcademicMilestone #Collaboration
🏉💪 Leadership on and off the court!
UniSC Master of Business Administration student and Senior Lecturer in Clinical Exercise Physiology, Dan van den Hoek, recently captained and coached his team in the QLD Wheelchair Football League Grand Final.
He’s also been named coach of the Gold Coast Suns Wheelchair AFL team for the upcoming Q Clash series 👏
👏 Congratulations, Dan — what an incredible achievement!
