THE NEXT generation of sports performance analysists at Worcester University have been getting to grips with some cutting edge technology.
SmartCart Technologies visited to speak to students on the Master’s Sport course about the latest developments in telestration, which involves overlaying graphics onto video footage displayed on a touchscreen system.
Club coaches and analysts commonly use this tool to analyse matches, particularly in football, to break down and highlight key information visually. By drawing on the screen, they can explain tactics and show players how they could have reacted in match situations.
Dr John Francis, the university’s senior lecturer in performance analysis, said: “It is crucial for our master’s students to engage with leading industry experts who showcase cutting-edge technology and discuss contemporary issues shaping the sports performance analysis industry.
“We are committed to preparing our students for roles in performance analysis and other key areas, ensuring they are ready to excel in their future careers. Many of our previous students have gone on to work in Premier League and Championship clubs.”
SmartCart Technologies has created the CoachCart – a mobile, weatherproof touchscreen system. Students were able to try out the telestration and analysis system themselves and hear more from the company. The university and some of its students have been involved in considerable research in recent years around the use and benefit of telestration in football coaching.
Gilbert Cowie, founder of Smartcart Technologies Ltd, added: “Our visit to the University of Worcester was a great opportunity to engage with the next generation of performance analysts and showcase how CoachCart is transforming pitch-side coaching. It was great to see the students quickly grasp the system, delivering their own impressive analysis. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the university, contributing to future course activities and research to keep advancing performance analysis tools.”
