Middlesbrough FC transforms training

Satellite technology is playing a key role in a joint sport performance project between the University and Middlesbrough Football Club (FC). 

From 2006 the Club has shared a researcher with the University to explore the impact of Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology in evaluating players’ performance. 

During training sessions players wear a GPS device in a harness between their shoulder blades.  Data from the device allows players’ work volume and intensity during training to be computed.  Results are presented in terms of movement speed and distances covered.  This data is then compared with the actual match performance to objectively appraise the effectiveness of training.  Middlesbrough FC was the first club in the UK to buy GPS technology for this purpose.

Matt Portas, Senior Lecturer in Sport & Exercise at the University has analysed the data with colleagues and delivered presentations at international conferences about the findings. 

He said: ‘This project is very exciting.  To date, clubs and coaches had to rely on heart rate and players’ perceptions for feedback on the intensity of training sessions. Now we can use the GPS data to manipulate training drills so they are more match specific or more accurately meet the stated physical goals of training.

‘The technology has other applications, such as player rehabilitation, where training loads and exposure can be carefully controlled and progressively increased.  Two other UK clubs, Chelsea and Celtic have now bought GPS.  And it has potential for other sports, such as athletics and orienteering.’

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