Data Informed vs Data Driven: Mississippi State University Soccer

16 Jan Data Informed vs Data Driven: Mississippi State University Soccer

As the reigning SEC Regular Season champions, Mississippi State University (MSU) Women’s Soccer has set the standard for excellence on and off the field. Their success is a shining example of what STATSports technology can bring to a top college program. By integrating cutting-edge performance tools, MSU has revolutionized their approach to player health and performance optimization. 

‘Data-Informed, Not Data-Driven.’

“Our main principle when using STATSports technology is ‘Data Informed, NOT Data Driven.’ We are not chasing numbers or metrics. We are chasing specific training outcomes. We are simply setting physical, technical, and tactical goals each day while STATSports serves as a guide to ensure we are on the right path. There is always a balance of art and science within our program’s load management decisions,” 

Chasing outcomes, not numbers. MSU epitomizes the balance of art and science, leveraging STATSports data to inform decisions without being dictated by them. This approach ensures that training plans and load management strategies are tailored, intentional, and designed to maximize every individual’s potential.

Here’s how MSU utilizes key features of STATSports technology to track performance and drive their success in the highly competitive SEC.

Redefining Match Demands 

Understanding the unique requirements of their team has been a game-changer for MSU. Instead of relying solely on generic load management research, MSU uses STATSports to analyze positional and individual match demands. This tailored approach allows their performance staff to set realistic training goals, ensuring athletes are fully prepared to excel on game day. 

Comprehensive Reporting for Coaches and Players 

“STATSports has played a massive role in health and performance for our team. We are dedicated to communicating our key metrics and performance trends to the coaching staff to support their decision-making throughout the season,” says Victor Hoffman, Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach. 

MSU’s approach to data communication is both strategic and transparent. Their coaching staff receives reports that highlight: 

• Daily metrics for each athlete 

• Weekly loads for each athlete 

• Detailed drill analyses 

These insights guide decision-making and strategy throughout the season. Additionally, MSU shares personalized player reports, giving athletes a clear understanding of their total daily and weekly metrics as well as drill-specific data. This fosters a culture of self-awareness and accountability, empowering athletes to track and enhance their performance. 

Strategic Periodization 

With STATSports, MSU’s performance team meticulously plans low, moderate, and high-intensity sessions on a monthly and weekly basis. This ensures that training aligns with the demands of the competition schedule, optimizing player readiness and recovery. 

Precision in Drill Design 

MSU tailors their drills with specific physical qualities in mind—whether it’s improving linear speed, enhancing change-of-direction skills, or targeting aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Using STATSports, they set precise constraints such as field dimensions, work-to-rest ratios, and player numbers to achieve desired outcomes. 

Building a Drill Database 

Every drill MSU completes is stored in a comprehensive database powered by STATSports. This resource allows them to refine and replicate successful sessions, ensuring continuous improvement in their training programs. 

Individualized Load Management  

During the competitive season, MSU closely monitors training demands for high-load players. By tracking weekly load, percentage changes from previous weeks, and the competition schedule, they make informed adjustments to training intensity. This proactive approach minimizes injury risk and maximizes player availability. 

Mississippi State University Women’s Soccer exemplifies the power of STATSports technology in collegiate athletics. As SEC Regular Season champions, they continue to push the boundaries of performance and player health. At STATSports, we’re honored to support their journey and look forward to seeing them achieve even greater success.