20 Feb Case Study: Optimizing Performance at FC Cincinnati Using STATSports Technology
Introduction
FC Cincinnati, crowned 2023 MLS Supporters’ Shield Champions, attributes part of their success to a meticulously planned performance strategy led by Phil Keehne, Head of Sports Science and Nutrition.
Central to this strategy is the use of STATSports technology to monitor, evaluate, and optimize player performance throughout the week, peaking readiness for match-day.
Objectives
Phil Keehne’s primary objectives are to:
- Tailor training loads for individual player needs to maximize performance while minimizing injury risk.
- Provide real-time feedback to coaches and players, enabling informed decision-making and creating increased player buy-in.
- Optimize match-day readiness through structured periodization and strategic load management.
Implementation of STATSports Technology
1. Periodization and Weekly Training Structure
Phil utilizes a detailed periodization model that strategically manages volume and intensity across the week. This approach is broken down into distinct phases:
Mid-Week Conditioning (Matchday -4 and -3):
- Focus: Building volume and maintaining high-intensity exposure.
- Metrics Tracked: Distance per min, high-speed running, explosive distance, and accelerations/decelerations.
- Method: High-volume drills with an emphasis on sustaining intensity for longer durations. Phil uses live GPS data to ensure players meet targeted metrics, adjusting the load as needed.
- Purpose: Establish a strong conditioning base early in the week, allowing for intensity tapering closer to match day.
Late Week Tactical and Speed Exposure (Matchday -2 and -1):
- Focus: Tapering volume while maintaining high-intensity exposure, particularly to max speed.
- Metrics Tracked: Percentage of max speed, explosive accelerations, and decelerations.
- Method: Sessions incorporate intensive movements and short, sharp drills. Using live feedback, Phil ensures each player reaches at least 95% of their max speed during their final sprint, gradually increasing intensity from 75% to full effort.
- Purpose: This maintains speed exposure without overloading players, ensuring they are sharp and ready for match day.
2. Max Speed Integration and Live Feedback
Max Speed Exposure:
Phil emphasizes the importance of max speed exposure throughout the week to enhance player readiness and reduce injury risks. By strategically integrating max speed drills into late-week sessions, he ensures that players are regularly exposed to high-velocity movements.
Live Feedback Mechanism:
Players receive real-time feedback on their speeds immediately after each sprint, boosting motivation and engagement. This live data is accessible across the training ground, including from the stands or coaching boxes, allowing Phil and his team to communicate performance metrics seamlessly.
3. Tactical Decision-Making and Load Management
Game Day Monitoring and Position-Specific Adjustments:
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- Phil leverages STATSports’ live feedback during matches to monitor player loads in real-time. This allows for informed tactical decisions, such as potentially substituting players if they exceed normative values for their position.
- For example, if a player is deployed in an unfamiliar role with higher demands (e.g., as a wing-back), Phil tracks their workload and provides insights to the coaching staff to avoid fatigue-related injuries.
In-Game and Post-Game Applications:
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- During games, Phil uses live metrics to assess player performance relative to game-day thresholds. This includes monitoring distance covered, high-speed running, and accelerations to ensure players maintain optimal output.
- Post-game, STATSports technology is used to manage recovery and maintain non-starters’ fitness levels through tailored top-up sessions.
4. Sonra Watch Integration for Rehabilitation and Remote Monitoring
Remote Monitoring for Rehabilitation:
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- FC Cincinnati utilizes the STATSports Sonra Watch to monitor players undergoing rehabilitation, even when off-site. This allows athletic trainers to track metrics such as distance, speed, and intensity, ensuring consistent progression through the rehab process.
- The watch is especially valuable during international travel or remote training camps, maintaining continuity in player development.
Load Progression and Decision-Making:
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- Athletic trainers use live data to assess whether players are meeting prescribed metrics and make informed decisions on progressing or regressing their rehab plans.
Results and Impact
Enhanced Performance and Availability:
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- FC Cincinnati maintained high player availability, significantly contributing to their first-ever Supporters’ Shield title.
- By monitoring workload and strategically managing load, the team sustained performance levels across a congested schedule of 10 games in 5 weeks, traveling over 10,000 miles.
Improved Player Engagement and Buy-In:
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- The immediate feedback loop created by live GPS metrics increased player engagement and buy-in, leading to a more motivated and performance-focused squad.
Data-informed Tactical Adjustments:
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- Real-time insights allowed Phil and the coaching staff to make informed tactical decisions, optimizing player rotation and minimizing fatigue-related injuries.
