MSc Performance Analysis students team up with England Lionesses

Sam Hunt, Harry Brook and James Cosgrove (pictured) have been tasked with analysing specific elements of match play with the aim of informing future practice.

When asked why the organisation wanted to collaborate with Leeds Beckett, Shelley Kerr (Head of Women’s Development Teams) said:

“Leeds Beckett is renowned for having an excellent Performance Analysis MSc course. We have also first-hand experience of collaboratively working with Leeds Beckett in relation to physical performance and want to continue working with a university that has a proven track record of research in sport.”

When asked what the students will be doing, Stewart Heppinstall (Women's Performance Analysis Pathway Lead) said:

“The students will be involved in conducting research, demonstrating both quantitative and qualitative analysis with the focus on Women’s International Youth Tournament Football at U17 & U19 level. The research will ultimately allow for a more in-depth understanding of critical areas of play related to our How We Play philosophy & strategies.

The students so far have demonstrated an excellent attitude & enthusiasm to being involved in this project, initially showcasing their skillset by delivering a thorough pre-project task in relation to key performance indicators linked to success. Further to this, students have demonstrated good knowledge and understanding surrounding key operational definitions & code window design that reflect the needs of the project. I look forward to assisting Sam, James & Harry throughout their research project journey & the insight to follow.”

MSc Sport Performance Analysis Course Leader Dr David Alder described how elements of the course will support the project:

“In a range of modules students have been exposed to different methods for collating, interpreting and presenting large data sets. Students have also been upskilled on a range of industrty leading software and hardware (i.e. Catapult Focus).

The three students chosen for this project have demonstrated excellent engagement and enthusiasm to the course- this has been rewarded by this unique opportunity. They presented to a range of England staff at St George’s park and did a fantastic job- they also had a brief corridor conversation with Gareth Southgate! This work builds on the existing relationship we have with the FA for the Women's 'Demands of the Game' project. We value our partnership with the organisation and look forward to working together over the next few years”