Playermaker: Innovation of data tracking technology

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Image via Playermaker website

Playermaker is the world’s only foot-worn data tracking device that allows coaches to gather real-time data from each individual player using the devices sensor strapped to their boot.

Playermaker is a sports technology company that was founded in 2017 by Guy Aharon & Yuval Odem who formerly served in the Israeli Defensive Forces.

Playermaker offers sports technology products that are designed to provide valuable data and insights to players, coaches, and teams.

It enables users of all skill levels to measure to seamlessly access a range of data points that can pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of their game.

Teams in particular can gain a deeper insight into the development of their players using the in-depth statistics that the Playermaker provides.

The company has partnered with hundreds of elite clubs and federations worldwide including a partnership with current Premier League champions Manchester City.

Playermaker is FIFA approved and is the first athlete performance monitoring system to successfully complete the challenge set by the FIFA Innovation Program, gaining the EPTS FIFA Quality certificate.

About CityPlay

Using their partnership with Manchester City, Playermaker also released ‘CityPlay’ that combines Playermaker technology with Manchester City’s Player development methodology.

The app is designed to help your child develop and involves many interesting features that can keep parents or coaches on top of their performances like never before.

Measuring over 25 metrics, CityPlay provides the most relevant data for creating training programs, benchmarking performance and tracking progress. With the metrics that matter you can set goals, measure progress, analyse performance and improve easier and faster.

There is also an option to watch personalised in-app videos from Manchester City coaches and experts to help accelerate your child’s progress.

How it works:

6-Axis Motion Smart Sensors

Built with a gyroscope and accelerometer that samples movement events at 1000 times/sec, which allows the measurement of every micro-movement, including impact with the ground, with the ball and the rotation of each foot.

Strong but seamless straps

Two waterproof sensors (L+R) located inside the durable silicone straps, suitable for all playing conditions. The straps comes in 2 sizes (M / L), to fit kids adults, women and men alike.

Training Highlights

Tracks 15+ football specific metrics including touches, total distance, kicking power, sprint distance and intense turns.

This helps users examine their training performance using the different metrics to help them improve for matchday.

Match Skill Scores with others worldwide

There are three Match Score Factors: Age, Gender and Position.

Scores range from 40-99 for each skill. A score of 99 indicates your performance placed in the top 5% of your segment, while a score of 40 indicates the same, but for the bottom 5%.

This allows players to compare their statistics and scores in each metric with others in the same category to suggest where the player needs the most improvement.

Proprietary Rating System

An objective skills rating system, that covers both physical and technical abilities, obtained during
real world scenarios of match play.

1. Objective, AI-based measurements of both physical and technical skills
2. During in-game situations, without interference
3. Developed using global age and gender benchmarks

Other Features

  • Requires no infrastructure, Wi-Fi or GPS signal to collect data
  • Bluetooth operated Device to sync the data
  • Track your progress over time using trends of past stats that have been recorded

Sky is the limit for Playermaker’s device, and the technology can certainly be adapted in other sports, however the company is currently focusing on maintaining its excellent growth in football.

As the company has expanded in the football industry, it is providing the world stage with incredible innovation that can help clubs of all levels with talent identification, analysis and tactical insights.

The company is yet to partner with an A-League club and there is a huge opportunity for a club in Australia to enhance their data tracking and analysis systems.

As the league starts to prioritise talent identification and player development over the influx of failed marquees, using this technology is a perfect way to improve in that aspect and delve deeper to potentially produce more talented Australian footballers.

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Manchester City open new training centre for Women’s First Team

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Image credit: Manchester City

The training centre opened earlier this week, following years of planning, investment and ambition for Manchester City Women.

State-of-the-art facilities

Recently crowned WSL Champions, Manchester City Women will now be able to train, prepare and recover in a truly special, purpose-built facility.

Covering 17,000 square feet, a world-class gym, strength & conditioning facilities and dressing room, the site will help players  to maximise performances on the pitch.

But given the facilities also received input from players and staff, inspiring added touches like social spaces and recognition for players with over 100 appearances, it is clear that this is a deeply personal project for all involved at Manchester City Women.

As Managing Director of Manchester City Women, Charlotte O’Neill, highlighted, the training centre is a symbol of excellence and ambition.

“This building is about so much more than bricks and mortar,” O’Neill said via press release.

“It is about creating an environment here our players can thrive, where standards are set at the very highest level and where the current squad has everything it needs to continue to compete for and win silverware.”

A winning project, for a winning team. The training centre is sure to propel Manchester City Women to even greater heights in the seasons to come.

 

Continuing investment trends

Furthermore, as the result of an AUD 18.6 million (GBP 10 million) investment and purpose-built for Manchester City Women, it is yet another example of the current strength of WSL investment.

Just a few weeks ago, Brighton & Hove Albion unveiled plans to construct a new venue for its women’s team, delivering on a clear intention to support commercial growth and infrastructure in the women’s game.

But even after winning their first WSL title this season, the message from the board is clear: Manchester City Women are a fundamental part of the club’s long-term vision.

“This new facility marks the next logical step in our long-term commitment to Manchester City Women, and is an important milestone for the club as a whole,” said Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

“We have always believed in investing to create the right environment for players and staff to develop and succeed. That approach has underpinned every aspect of our work since the professional relaunch of Manchester City Women in 2014.”

LALIGA and EA SPORTS FC collaborate in community pitch project

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Image credit: EA SPORTS FC Electronic Arts

Part of the EA SPORTS FC FUTURES grassroots initiative, the newly refurbished pitch will provide New York kids with a safe, inclusive space to enjoy the game in their community.

 

From Europe to US

In the heart of the Bronx, New York, LALIGA and EA SPORTS FC unveiled the new space as the 10th collaboration between the two parties to bring pitches to future generations.

It marks an exciting development not just for community infrastructure, but for representing the global reach and connections made possible through football.

Furthermore, with support from local artist, BG183, The William Lloyd Garrison School, and soccer-inspired education and youth support program, South Bronx United, it stands as a symbol of local pride and grassroots commitment.

“This project in New York is especially meaningful because it brings together access to sport, long-term community impact and a strong local identity,” explained LALIGA’s Executive Director of Business, Jorge de la Vega.

“Together with EA SPORTS FC and our community partners, we want this pitch to become a place where young people can play, grow and find new opportunities.”

 

Using platforms for wider growth

This is a project which provides aspiring young footballers with the facilities they need to thrive in their personal and sporting development.

And although it carries an emphasis on local values, the global work and vision of EA SPORTS FC and LALIGA is undeniable.

The former now supports similar initiatives across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and right here in Australia. The Sam Kerr Pitch, unveiled in Sydney in 2023, provides young girls with free access to a high-quality space.

Thus, EA SPORTS FC is showing a unique combination in its community investment strategy: the global name of LALIGA, paired with collaboration from local organisations, ultimately establishing something even bigger.

“While EA SPORTS FC lives in the game, our ambition goes beyond it – working with partners like LALIGA and local communities to create spaces where football can be played and experienced physically,” outlined EA SPORTS FC Senior Director, Partnerships Marketing, James Salmon.

“Projects like this in the South Bronx show how football can bring people together and create lasting impact.”

 

Small space, big impact

Although this may be one small pitch in the Bronx, its signficance resonates with grassroots communities across the world who know its true value.

Hopefully, EA SPORTS FC will continue to show their commitment to next generations for many years to come.

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