What role do performance analysts play in sports?
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The process of taking raw data from games and practices and developing it into a report that coaches can use with their teams is known as performance analysis. These statistics are used to optimize performance and win games. The role they play in sportscasting is crucial to helping fans who run fantasy leagues as well.
Technological Advances in Analysis
Up to a few years ago, analyzing data relied on recording training sessions and games. Highlight reels would be obtained to pull more information. An analyst was required to create copies and edits to assist the coaching staff and explain the findings with their reports. Technology has made the job easier. Software is available to allow analysts the ability to track information in real-time. Programs designed to meet the high demands of the coaching staff are now available, creating a whole new world of insights.
How Performance Analysts Work
On game days, an analyst will need to be on hand to capture everything that takes place during the game. They will create individual playlists for each of the players full of notes and charts. Following the game, they will meet with each player, along with management, to present the findings. Coaching staff then take this information and make changes to improve the athletes’ performance. In addition to individual meetings, analysts must meet with the entire team to discuss the tactical data obtained. They must be ready to answer any questions and provide evidence of all research performed.
Tools Uses:
- Opta
- Excel
- Sportcode
- Dartfish
Program Languages Needed:
- MySQL (or equivalent)
- Python
- R
The goal of an analyst is to determine the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. You want the team you work for to know how to counteract what the other side brings to the table and exploit their weaknesses. The more successful you are, the greater the trust the coaching staff will put in your findings.
Responsibilities of Performance Analysts
- Record all games and training sessions
- Analyze opposing teams games (during the week leading up to the game)
- Recording live games to create notes and clips to create post-match reports
- Update databases used for trends (both statistic and video)
- Create content for training sessions and debriefing
- Create content for classes teaching others about data analysts
- Care for equipment necessary for video and audio capturing
- Feedback delivery to staff, players, and fans
- Any analytical needs requested by team staff
- Creation of reports, charts, and other visual representation of data
- Interpret raw data in a way that benefits athletes and team management
Technology has made it easier to obtain data and present it in a form that others can understand. However, analysts must have the communication skills and professionalism to handle the frustrations teams have after losses. With the massive amount of information that is compiled during a game, most teams will hire a group of analysts for specific roles, such as scouting, tactical, research, training, scoring, and technical. Some analysts work only for fan websites, such as 토토사이트 먹튀폴리스. Regardless of the end job, they will always play a crucial part in sports.
