What does a performance analyst actually do? (w. Carlon Carpenter, Head Video Analyst at Houston Dynamo)
Dec 26, 2023
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Carlon Carpenter, Head Video Analyst at Houston Dynamo, joins Jon Mackenzie to discuss the role of a performance analyst. They talk about the differences in analysis processes at different levels, maintaining objectivity in analysis, and the necessary skills for being a successful analyst. They also discuss the challenges of managing workload and the future developments in performance analysis.
Performance analysts assess, diagnose, and provide objective solutions to individual and team performance problems.
Collaboration with coaches, using video and data, is crucial for performance analysts in supporting tactical decision-making.
To maintain objectivity in analysis, performance analysts must continuously watch recent games, study data, and seek feedback from industry experts.
Deep dives
State Farm's Ensuring Coverage Initiative to Promote Women's Sports
State Farm's Ensuring Coverage initiative aims to increase media coverage of women's sports, addressing the mere 5.4% of sports media coverage received by women's sports in the United States. The initiative expands coverage of women's soccer on The Athletic, featuring real-time reporting and behind-the-scenes content. Ensuring Coverage offers fans exclusive access to videos, newsletters, live coverage, and news stories, highlighting the importance of elevating women's sports and sharing meaningful stories.
Performance Analysis in MLS: Insights from Karl An Carpenter
In the podcast, Karl An Carpenter, a performance analyst at Houston Dynamo in MLS, shares insights into the role of a performance analyst and its impact on team success. He discusses how performance analysis involves assessing, diagnosing, and providing objective solutions to individual and team performance problems. Karl highlights the importance of understanding the game, communication skills, and presenting information effectively. He also explains the process of analyzing opponents, providing relevant clips and insights to the coaching staff during match days. Karl emphasizes the collaborative nature of performance analysis, working closely with coaches and using video and data to support tactical decision-making.
The Role of a Performance Analyst: Karl An Carpenter's Career Journey
Karl An Carpenter shares his unconventional path into the performance analysis field. Starting as a college player, he gained experience with the University of Virginia, US Youth National Team, and StatsBomb. Karl highlights the evolving nature of performance analysis and the need for standardization in the industry. He discusses how performance analysts adapt to different levels of the game, from non-league football to MLS. Karl underlines the importance of creativity, understanding individual player tendencies, and adapting analysis to fit the team's game model. He also mentions the Association of Professional Football Analysis, aiming to promote industry standards and create a supportive community for analysts.
Addressing Gender Disparity in Sports Media Coverage
Women's sports receive only 5.4 percent of sports media coverage in the United States. In an effort to close this gap, State Firm launched the Ensuring Coverage initiative. This initiative aims to elevate the women's sports landscape by providing real-time and behind-the-scenes reporting on the biggest stage in women's soccer. Through the partnership with The Athletic, fans gain access to behind-the-scenes videos, daily newsletters, live coverage, and news stories that highlight women's sports.
Maintaining Objectivity in Performance Analysis
Maintaining objectivity in video and performance analysis can be challenging. Biases can seep into the analysis process, affecting the interpretation of teams and players. To overcome biases, analysts must continuously watch recent games, study the data, and seek feedback from industry experts. By consistently doing due diligence, staying open-minded, and utilizing the expertise of others, analysts can minimize preconceived biases and provide objective insights.
