MSc in Sports Performance Analysis

In collaboration with Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU), Portobello Institute is excited to offer this MSc (Hons) Sport Performance Analysis degree programme.  In addition to being taught by active practitioners within this field, you will also have access to additional CPD opportunities, cutting edge technologies, networking opportunities and a host of employability enhancement activities.  The successful completion of this programme alongside all the added extras that Portobello have to offer, will allow anyone who embarks on this journey with us, to be at the forefront of the discipline and create the opportunity to compete within the arena of Sport Performance Analysis.

Why should I study this course?

Why Sport Performance Analysis?

What is it?

Sport performance analysis is the process of collecting, analysing, and interpreting data and information related to sporting events or individual athlete performances. It involves using various techniques, technologies, and methodologies to gain insights into athletic performance and make informed decisions to enhance performance.

The primary goal of sport performance analysis is to provide objective feedback and valuable information to athletes, coaches, and support staff, enabling them to optimize training strategies, improve tactical decisions, and enhance overall performance. By analysing performance data, patterns, and trends, performance analysts can identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, helping athletes and teams achieve their full potential.

Here are some key aspects of sport performance analysis:

1. Data collection: Performance analysts collect data from various sources, such as video footage, athlete monitoring systems, wearable sensors, and statistical records. This can include metrics like speed, distance covered, heart rate, physiological parameters, technical skills, and tactical actions.
2. Video analysis: Analysing recorded video footage allows performance analysts to assess technique, movement patterns, decision-making, and tactical strategies. They may use video editing software, tagging systems, and annotation tools to identify key events, actions, and performance indicators.
3. Statistical analysis: Performance analysts utilize statistical methods to quantify and analyse performance data. They may calculate averages, percentages, correlations, and other statistical measures to identify performance trends, patterns, and comparisons.
4. Performance modelling: Performance analysts may develop mathematical or computational models to simulate and predict performance outcomes based on various factors, such as environmental conditions, player positioning, and tactical strategies. These models can aid in decision-making and strategy development.
5. Feedback and reporting: Performance analysts provide feedback to athletes, coaches, and support staff based on their analysis. This feedback can be presented through reports, visualizations, dashboards, or one-on-one discussions, highlighting key performance insights and suggesting areas for improvement.
6. Opposition analysis: Performance analysts analyse opponents’ performance data and strategies to gain insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies. This information helps teams develop game plans and make tactical decisions to maximize their chances of success.
7. Technology and software: Performance analysis often involves utilizing specialized software, tools, and technologies. This can include video analysis software, athlete tracking systems, motion capture systems, and data visualization platforms.

Sport performance analysis is utilised in various sports, including team sports (e.g., football, basketball, rugby), individual sports (e.g., athletics, swimming, tennis), and even sports with subjective scoring (e.g., gymnastics, figure skating). It is commonly used at both professional and amateur levels to improve training methods, tactical strategies, and athlete development.

Overall, sport performance analysis plays a crucial role in enhancing performance by providing evidence-based insights and supporting decision-making processes to optimize training, tactics, and overall athletic achievement.