When demanding the data tools they use, survey respondents revealed a wide range of technical refinement between clubs. The aforementioned tools include everything, from Excel spreadsheets to more advanced tools such as Snowflake, Python, R and Tableau. Some teams have built advanced workflows with automated XML generation that links to sports code, while others use data visualization tools and dashboards.
All seven responding teams reported the use of RAW players events data to make their own internal statistics. Only one team confirmed the use of “RAW Player Tracking Data”, but their remark revealed that they referred to sports science data (ie GPS, Vald, Whoop, VBT) instead of broadcast or optical tracking data such as Skillcorner or Second Spectrum.
This lack of tracking data probably reflects both the high costs and the technical expertise needed to process such data – livestock farmers who are particularly challenging for clubs that work with smaller budgets and analysis staff.
The Path Forward: collaboration versus competition
The answers were mixed to the question of data and sharing codes in clubs. While some saw potential benefits, others were worried about giving away competitiveness. A respondent noted, “Increased data/code -sharing does not necessarily mean that this would lead to a positive impact. If the people who are planning to use the data/code are not data/code -lettered, negative effects can occur.”
Looking back, moving forward
Perhaps the most optimistic finding from the survey was the observation of a respondent that “Where every team is now, is now more advanced than 5 years ago, even if they just have someone who can film games.” This suggests that although the NWSL Analytics landscape can be uneven, it is progressing across the board.
The research results paint a picture of a competition in the transition, in which some teams make significant investments in analysis infrastructure, while others are left behind due to the limitations of resources. The widespread dissatisfaction with data providers and the universal desire for more staff suggest that the analytical evolution of the NWSL is more limited by infrastructure and resources than by the lack of interest or vision.
As the competition continues to grow and professionalize, tackling these fundamental challenges will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of analyzes in women’s football. The teams that can overcome these limitations, such as Bay FC and Washington Spirit, will probably have considerable competitive benefits in the coming seasons.
This survey was conducted during the NWSL season of 2024 with answers collected between June and September 2024. All answers were anonymous and voluntary. We thank the analysis staff who participated for their time and frank insights into the data of data in women’s professional football.
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