Source: Financial Times
Data analytics is not unknown to football but the frequency of its usage remains at its early stages.
Data analytics is the method of gathering and organizing data to create forecasts and make decisions. Essentially, it involves turning data into knowledge.
The number of goals a team scores is often regarded as the only statistic that matters. This does not however tell the entire picture. The background or data that is collected and used has a tremendous impact on how sporting performance can be monitored and improved.
Off the field data analysis is becoming the norm to get a complete picture of players’ performances as well as to optimize training sessions and most importantly to prevent injuries.
A common instance where this can be seen is in training session where players are equipped with special wearable devices. These devices allow for data to be drawn including heart rate, movement and fatigue levels. The data collected is then used in plans relating to team management, training, and recruitment.
Caribbean football has also committed to a management style backed by data. The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association on September 21, 2021, announced a two-year deal with South Korean-based company Fitogether, who will provide Electronic Performance and Tracking Systems (EPTS) devices and supportive technology for the national men and women’s teams. These pieces of technology will assist with player development and tactical analysis.
Jamaica has also joined in on data analytics. Professional Football Jamaica Limited (PFJL) has signed a partnership with InStat that will immensely improve access to Jamaica Premier League (JPL) statistical data of clubs, players and affiliated parties. This will allow for a collection of data including ball possession rates, goals, passes, tackles, the number of touches made by players and to whom they pass most frequently.
Despite the realization that with data analysis comes better informed decision making, traditionally, there has been a reliance on intuition and impulsive decision making. Decision making that has been informed by wisdom rather than data.
The more opportunities to collect data the better for the Caribbean. The information that falls through the cracks when relying on wisdom rather than data will continue to be captured through data analytics. This will have the effect of improving the quality of decisions made.
With wearables, and more advanced platforms becoming common across sports tournaments, clubs, and associations, analytics offers immense opportunities. As the Caribbean continues to utilize a data driven approach the future of sport looks exciting for coaches, players and fans alike.
Feel free to comment and let us know whether you think data analysis is a good move for football or not!