web02.fireside.fm Sat, 18 Apr 2026 14:37:26 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Science for Sport Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Sports Analytics” https://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/tags/sports%20analytics Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0100 Discover the Secrets Behind Elite Performance. Join us on the Science for Sport Podcast, where every episode dives into the cutting-edge world of sports science and the untold stories behind the best athletes and teams on the planet. Hosted by Richard Graves, we bring you exclusive insights from elite athletes, world-class coaches, and leading sports scientists who are shaping the future of global sport. This isn’t just another sports podcast—this is your backstage pass to: - The science powering record-breaking performances. - The trends, challenges, and breakthroughs redefining the game. - Mastering the balance of art and science in coaching. Whether you’re a sports scientist, coach, physio, nutritionist, teacher, or just a passionate sports fan, this is your chance to learn from the pros and stay ahead of the curve. Tune in every Monday and uncover what it takes to make the best, better. en-gb episodic Behind the Scenes of Elite Performance – Unlocking the Science, Stories, and Strategies That Make the Best Even Better Science for Sport Discover the Secrets Behind Elite Performance. Join us on the Science for Sport Podcast, where every episode dives into the cutting-edge world of sports science and the untold stories behind the best athletes and teams on the planet. Hosted by Richard Graves, we bring you exclusive insights from elite athletes, world-class coaches, and leading sports scientists who are shaping the future of global sport. This isn’t just another sports podcast—this is your backstage pass to: - The science powering record-breaking performances. - The trends, challenges, and breakthroughs redefining the game. - Mastering the balance of art and science in coaching. Whether you’re a sports scientist, coach, physio, nutritionist, teacher, or just a passionate sports fan, this is your chance to learn from the pros and stay ahead of the curve. Tune in every Monday and uncover what it takes to make the best, better. yes sport, science, sports, sports science, education, coach, coaching, athletes, performance, strength, conditioning, strength & conditioning, S&C, recovery, nutrition, entertainment Science for Sport contact@scienceforsport.com 314: Player Load, Practice Periodisation, and the Art of Keeping It Simple with Jackson Polk http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/314 7dfea048-d0dc-4085-9838-6d018ca795d1 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0100 Science for Sport 314 Player Load, Practice Periodisation, and the Art of Keeping It Simple with Jackson Polk full Science for Sport Jackson Polk, Director of Sports Science at USC Trojans football, joins Richard Graves to discuss how he built a sports science programme from the ground up using data analytics, GPS monitoring, and the art of genuine conversation. Jackson shares his unorthodox path from student videographer at Oklahoma to leading sports science at one of college football's biggest programmes, and offers a frank, grounded perspective on everything from Catapult metrics and force plate testing to the real limitations of AI in applied sport. 29:24 no Richard Graves is joined by Jackson Polk, Director of Sports Science at the University of Southern California (USC), for a conversation that covers the full spectrum of what it actually means to do this job well, from wrangling a thousand Catapult metrics down to the handful that matter, to the perhaps surprising conclusion that conversation might be your most powerful tool. Jackson's path into sports science isn't the conventional one. He started as a student videographer with Oklahoma football, found himself drawn to the patterns hiding in data, and taught himself enough statistics and analytics to make coaches stop and listen. That curiosity eventually took him from Norman, Oklahoma, to Los Angeles, where he's spent the past four years building USC football's sports science programme from the ground up. What makes this episode stand out is Jackson's willingness to be honest about uncertainty, about AI, about his own mistakes, and about the limits of any single metric or method. He's equally at home referencing Principal Component Analysis and the TV show Veep, and that breadth of thinking is what makes him worth listening to. Whether you work in elite sport, study sports science, or just want to understand what goes into keeping a college football roster performing at its best, there's plenty here to take away. In This Episode You Will Learn * Why reducing Catapult's thousand-plus metrics down to a focused few, Player Load, sprint volume, and repeat sprint exposures, actually produces better decisions than trying to monitor everything * How Jackson uses principal component analysis to build confidence in the data he's presenting to coaches and athletes * The "iceberg" model of athlete monitoring: what data can tell you, and what only a direct conversation will uncover * Why practice periodisation and load management have been one of USC's biggest organisational wins, and how PlayerLoad underpins that planning * How force plates (via VALD/ForceDecks) and velocity-based training tools like Perch complement GPS data to reveal readiness on any given day * The case for teaching college athletes sound recovery habits early, so they're not spending their rookie contracts figuring out what works * How Jackson thinks about AI in sports science: where it's useful, where to be cautious, and why it's only as good as the data it's trained on * Why communication, not technology, is the cornerstone of an effective sports science operation, and how to make data digestible for coaches under pressure * The value of building a culture where experimentation and failure are treated as learning, not liability * Lessons from Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke on separating process from outcome, applied directly to sports science decision-making About Jackson Polk Jackson Polk is the Director of Sports Science for USC Trojans football, a role he was elevated to in 2024 after serving as Assistant Director from 2022–23. He joined the USC support staff in March 2022, bringing with him an unconventional background that blends mathematics, data science, and a deep passion for American football. His journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where he spent four seasons as a student videographer before becoming a volunteer performance analyst. While at OU, he co-founded the Oklahoma Sports and Data Analytics Club, which went on to win the Pro Football Focus Analytics Blitz contest. He completed his bachelor's degree in mathematics at Oklahoma in 2021 and subsequently pursued a master's in data science and analytics. At USC, Jackson has been responsible for building the football programme's sports science infrastructure, integrating GPS monitoring, force plate testing, and load management into daily practice planning. He holds an MBA alongside his analytical credentials, and his work sits at the intersection of data science and high-performance sport. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries Richard Graves is joined by Jackson Polk, Director of Sports Science at the University of Southern California (USC), for a conversation that covers the full spectrum of what it actually means to do this job well, from wrangling a thousand Catapult metrics down to the handful that matter, to the perhaps surprising conclusion that conversation might be your most powerful tool.
Jackson's path into sports science isn't the conventional one. He started as a student videographer with Oklahoma football, found himself drawn to the patterns hiding in data, and taught himself enough statistics and analytics to make coaches stop and listen. That curiosity eventually took him from Norman, Oklahoma, to Los Angeles, where he's spent the past four years building USC football's sports science programme from the ground up.
What makes this episode stand out is Jackson's willingness to be honest about uncertainty, about AI, about his own mistakes, and about the limits of any single metric or method. He's equally at home referencing Principal Component Analysis and the TV show Veep, and that breadth of thinking is what makes him worth listening to. Whether you work in elite sport, study sports science, or just want to understand what goes into keeping a college football roster performing at its best, there's plenty here to take away.

In This Episode You Will Learn

  • Why reducing Catapult's thousand-plus metrics down to a focused few, Player Load, sprint volume, and repeat sprint exposures, actually produces better decisions than trying to monitor everything
  • How Jackson uses principal component analysis to build confidence in the data he's presenting to coaches and athletes
  • The "iceberg" model of athlete monitoring: what data can tell you, and what only a direct conversation will uncover
  • Why practice periodisation and load management have been one of USC's biggest organisational wins, and how PlayerLoad underpins that planning
  • How force plates (via VALD/ForceDecks) and velocity-based training tools like Perch complement GPS data to reveal readiness on any given day
  • The case for teaching college athletes sound recovery habits early, so they're not spending their rookie contracts figuring out what works
  • How Jackson thinks about AI in sports science: where it's useful, where to be cautious, and why it's only as good as the data it's trained on
  • Why communication, not technology, is the cornerstone of an effective sports science operation, and how to make data digestible for coaches under pressure
  • The value of building a culture where experimentation and failure are treated as learning, not liability
  • Lessons from Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke on separating process from outcome, applied directly to sports science decision-making

About Jackson Polk
Jackson Polk is the Director of Sports Science for USC Trojans football, a role he was elevated to in 2024 after serving as Assistant Director from 2022–23. He joined the USC support staff in March 2022, bringing with him an unconventional background that blends mathematics, data science, and a deep passion for American football.
His journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where he spent four seasons as a student videographer before becoming a volunteer performance analyst. While at OU, he co-founded the Oklahoma Sports and Data Analytics Club, which went on to win the Pro Football Focus Analytics Blitz contest. He completed his bachelor's degree in mathematics at Oklahoma in 2021 and subsequently pursued a master's in data science and analytics.
At USC, Jackson has been responsible for building the football programme's sports science infrastructure, integrating GPS monitoring, force plate testing, and load management into daily practice planning. He holds an MBA alongside his analytical credentials, and his work sits at the intersection of data science and high-performance sport.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

]]> Richard Graves is joined by Jackson Polk, Director of Sports Science at the University of Southern California (USC), for a conversation that covers the full spectrum of what it actually means to do this job well, from wrangling a thousand Catapult metrics down to the handful that matter, to the perhaps surprising conclusion that conversation might be your most powerful tool.
Jackson's path into sports science isn't the conventional one. He started as a student videographer with Oklahoma football, found himself drawn to the patterns hiding in data, and taught himself enough statistics and analytics to make coaches stop and listen. That curiosity eventually took him from Norman, Oklahoma, to Los Angeles, where he's spent the past four years building USC football's sports science programme from the ground up.
What makes this episode stand out is Jackson's willingness to be honest about uncertainty, about AI, about his own mistakes, and about the limits of any single metric or method. He's equally at home referencing Principal Component Analysis and the TV show Veep, and that breadth of thinking is what makes him worth listening to. Whether you work in elite sport, study sports science, or just want to understand what goes into keeping a college football roster performing at its best, there's plenty here to take away.

In This Episode You Will Learn

  • Why reducing Catapult's thousand-plus metrics down to a focused few, Player Load, sprint volume, and repeat sprint exposures, actually produces better decisions than trying to monitor everything
  • How Jackson uses principal component analysis to build confidence in the data he's presenting to coaches and athletes
  • The "iceberg" model of athlete monitoring: what data can tell you, and what only a direct conversation will uncover
  • Why practice periodisation and load management have been one of USC's biggest organisational wins, and how PlayerLoad underpins that planning
  • How force plates (via VALD/ForceDecks) and velocity-based training tools like Perch complement GPS data to reveal readiness on any given day
  • The case for teaching college athletes sound recovery habits early, so they're not spending their rookie contracts figuring out what works
  • How Jackson thinks about AI in sports science: where it's useful, where to be cautious, and why it's only as good as the data it's trained on
  • Why communication, not technology, is the cornerstone of an effective sports science operation, and how to make data digestible for coaches under pressure
  • The value of building a culture where experimentation and failure are treated as learning, not liability
  • Lessons from Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke on separating process from outcome, applied directly to sports science decision-making

About Jackson Polk
Jackson Polk is the Director of Sports Science for USC Trojans football, a role he was elevated to in 2024 after serving as Assistant Director from 2022–23. He joined the USC support staff in March 2022, bringing with him an unconventional background that blends mathematics, data science, and a deep passion for American football.
His journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where he spent four seasons as a student videographer before becoming a volunteer performance analyst. While at OU, he co-founded the Oklahoma Sports and Data Analytics Club, which went on to win the Pro Football Focus Analytics Blitz contest. He completed his bachelor's degree in mathematics at Oklahoma in 2021 and subsequently pursued a master's in data science and analytics.
At USC, Jackson has been responsible for building the football programme's sports science infrastructure, integrating GPS monitoring, force plate testing, and load management into daily practice planning. He holds an MBA alongside his analytical credentials, and his work sits at the intersection of data science and high-performance sport.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

]]> 287: Data With Purpose: How the Houston Texans Use Sports Science to Drive Performance http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/287 989bdf2f-641a-4089-afa3-3769cc01eaa3 Mon, 29 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0100 Science for Sport 287 Data With Purpose: How the Houston Texans Use Sports Science to Drive Performance full Science for Sport In this episode, Houston Texans Director of Applied Sports Science Marc Lewis shares his journey from the U.S. Army to the NFL, highlighting how discipline, research, and collaboration shaped his career. He explains how effective systems, clear communication, and purposeful data collection drive athlete performance and decision-making in high-performance environments. 42:20 no This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves is joined by Marc Lewis, Director of Applied Sports Science at the Houston Texans. Marc’s journey is anything but conventional. From a childhood in foster care, to serving as an airborne infantry soldier in the U.S. Army, to becoming one of the leading voices in applied sports science in the NFL. He shares how his military discipline shaped his academic career, how he built his own sports science role from the ground up, and what it’s like to apply evidence-based practice in one of the world’s most demanding sporting environments. For practitioners working in professional sport, this episode offers practical insights into building effective systems, working collaboratively across disciplines, and making better decisions with data. *** In this episode, you’ll learn:** * How Marc transitioned from the U.S. Army into academia and ultimately the NFL. * Why strong foundations in research methods, measurement, and statistics are critical for sports scientists. * How to build sports science systems that connect data collection directly to decision-making. * The importance of collaboration across strength & conditioning, athletic training, and coaching. * How subjective monitoring can sometimes outweigh objective data when it comes to understanding athletes. * Why effective communication—and translating data into a language coaches understand—is essential for buy-in. * The role of culture, systems, and people in making technology truly effective. * Where Marc sees the next big leap in sports science, including the impact of artificial intelligence. About Marc Lewis Marc Lewis, PhD, is the Director of Applied Sports Science at the Houston Texans. His career spans military service, academia, and professional sport: * Former airborne infantry soldier in the U.S. Army. * Earned a PhD in Exercise Physiology at Virginia Tech, where he pioneered one of the university’s first applied sports science roles. * Held leadership positions at Virginia Tech football and Penn State University in applied health and performance science. * Joined the Houston Texans in 2023, where he leads the sports science department, developing integrated systems to support athlete performance and recovery. * Co-author of The Sports Science Handbook: A Blueprint for Better Decision-Making in Sport, written with Adam Virgil (Los Angeles Clippers). Marc is passionate about connecting research with practice, building systems that enhance decision-making, and pushing the boundaries of sports science in high-performance environments. SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 * ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively * ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery * ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In * ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese * ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More * ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance * ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes * ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries, sports science, applied sports science, NFL, Houston Texans, Marc Lewis, athlete monitoring, performance science, data-driven decision making, strength and conditioning, high performance, athlete recovery, sports technology, subjective monitoring, exercise physiology, sports analytics, artificial intelligence in sport, collaboration in sport, research to practice This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves is joined by Marc Lewis, Director of Applied Sports Science at the Houston Texans.
Marc’s journey is anything but conventional. From a childhood in foster care, to serving as an airborne infantry soldier in the U.S. Army, to becoming one of the leading voices in applied sports science in the NFL. He shares how his military discipline shaped his academic career, how he built his own sports science role from the ground up, and what it’s like to apply evidence-based practice in one of the world’s most demanding sporting environments.
For practitioners working in professional sport, this episode offers practical insights into building effective systems, working collaboratively across disciplines, and making better decisions with data.

*** In this episode, you’ll learn:**

  • How Marc transitioned from the U.S. Army into academia and ultimately the NFL.
  • Why strong foundations in research methods, measurement, and statistics are critical for sports scientists.
  • How to build sports science systems that connect data collection directly to decision-making.
  • The importance of collaboration across strength & conditioning, athletic training, and coaching.
  • How subjective monitoring can sometimes outweigh objective data when it comes to understanding athletes.
  • Why effective communication—and translating data into a language coaches understand—is essential for buy-in.
  • The role of culture, systems, and people in making technology truly effective.
  • Where Marc sees the next big leap in sports science, including the impact of artificial intelligence.

About Marc Lewis
Marc Lewis, PhD, is the Director of Applied Sports Science at the Houston Texans. His career spans military service, academia, and professional sport:

  • Former airborne infantry soldier in the U.S. Army.
  • Earned a PhD in Exercise Physiology at Virginia Tech, where he pioneered one of the university’s first applied sports science roles.
  • Held leadership positions at Virginia Tech football and Penn State University in applied health and performance science.
  • Joined the Houston Texans in 2023, where he leads the sports science department, developing integrated systems to support athlete performance and recovery.
  • Co-author of The Sports Science Handbook: A Blueprint for Better Decision-Making in Sport, written with Adam Virgil (Los Angeles Clippers). Marc is passionate about connecting research with practice, building systems that enhance decision-making, and pushing the boundaries of sports science in high-performance environments.

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

  • ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
  • ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
  • ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
  • ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
  • ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
  • ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
  • ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
  • ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research
]]> This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves is joined by Marc Lewis, Director of Applied Sports Science at the Houston Texans.
Marc’s journey is anything but conventional. From a childhood in foster care, to serving as an airborne infantry soldier in the U.S. Army, to becoming one of the leading voices in applied sports science in the NFL. He shares how his military discipline shaped his academic career, how he built his own sports science role from the ground up, and what it’s like to apply evidence-based practice in one of the world’s most demanding sporting environments.
For practitioners working in professional sport, this episode offers practical insights into building effective systems, working collaboratively across disciplines, and making better decisions with data.

*** In this episode, you’ll learn:**

  • How Marc transitioned from the U.S. Army into academia and ultimately the NFL.
  • Why strong foundations in research methods, measurement, and statistics are critical for sports scientists.
  • How to build sports science systems that connect data collection directly to decision-making.
  • The importance of collaboration across strength & conditioning, athletic training, and coaching.
  • How subjective monitoring can sometimes outweigh objective data when it comes to understanding athletes.
  • Why effective communication—and translating data into a language coaches understand—is essential for buy-in.
  • The role of culture, systems, and people in making technology truly effective.
  • Where Marc sees the next big leap in sports science, including the impact of artificial intelligence.

About Marc Lewis
Marc Lewis, PhD, is the Director of Applied Sports Science at the Houston Texans. His career spans military service, academia, and professional sport:

  • Former airborne infantry soldier in the U.S. Army.
  • Earned a PhD in Exercise Physiology at Virginia Tech, where he pioneered one of the university’s first applied sports science roles.
  • Held leadership positions at Virginia Tech football and Penn State University in applied health and performance science.
  • Joined the Houston Texans in 2023, where he leads the sports science department, developing integrated systems to support athlete performance and recovery.
  • Co-author of The Sports Science Handbook: A Blueprint for Better Decision-Making in Sport, written with Adam Virgil (Los Angeles Clippers). Marc is passionate about connecting research with practice, building systems that enhance decision-making, and pushing the boundaries of sports science in high-performance environments.

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

  • ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
  • ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
  • ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
  • ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
  • ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
  • ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
  • ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
  • ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research
]]> 282: AI in the Weight Room: Jacob Rothman on the Future of Velocity-Based Training http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/282 4c5ab707-10e5-42c3-86cb-87c889a1dad9 Mon, 25 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0100 Science for Sport 282 AI in the Weight Room: Jacob Rothman on the Future of Velocity-Based Training full Science for Sport This week, host Richard Graves talks with Jacob Rothman, founder of Perch and now Head of Strength at Catapult, about how AI-powered, camera-based technology is transforming strength and conditioning in elite sport. Discover how Perch’s integration with Catapult is helping teams connect weight-room data with on-field performance to drive smarter, safer training decisions. 25:11 no This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Jacob Rothman, founder of Perch and now Head of Strength at Catapult, to explore how camera-based, AI-driven technology is changing strength and conditioning, velocity-based training, and athlete monitoring in elite sport. Jacob shares the journey from an MIT startup to being trusted by pro teams, collegiate programs, and the military, and how the recent Catapult acquisition of Perch is creating a seamless ecosystem that connects weight-room data with on-field performance metrics. What you’ll learn in this episode How camera-based velocity-based training (VBT) is revolutionising athlete monitoring. Why closing the feedback loop in the weight room is a game-changer for S&C coaches and sports scientists. Real-world insights: how LSU Football leveraged Perch to fuel a national championship season. What the Catapult–Perch integration means for the future of athlete data and performance analytics. The challenges and lessons of building a hardware-software platform for elite sport. About Jacob Rothman Jacob Rothman co-founded Perch at MIT after a back injury inspired him to find a safer, smarter way for athletes to train. Since 2017, Perch has become a trusted solution for pro teams, collegiate programs, and elite training facilities, capturing over 500 million reps in the weight room. In June 2025, Catapult acquired Perch to bring non-invasive, AI-powered strength analytics into its global athlete performance ecosystem. Today, Jacob leads Strength at Catapult, driving innovation in integrated performance and health solutions. SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Jacob Rothman, founder of Perch and now Head of Strength at Catapult, to explore how camera-based, AI-driven technology is changing strength and conditioning, velocity-based training, and athlete monitoring in elite sport.

Jacob shares the journey from an MIT startup to being trusted by pro teams, collegiate programs, and the military, and how the recent Catapult acquisition of Perch is creating a seamless ecosystem that connects weight-room data with on-field performance metrics.

What you’ll learn in this episode

  • How camera-based velocity-based training (VBT) is revolutionising athlete monitoring.

  • Why closing the feedback loop in the weight room is a game-changer for S&C coaches and sports scientists.

  • Real-world insights: how LSU Football leveraged Perch to fuel a national championship season.

  • What the Catapult–Perch integration means for the future of athlete data and performance analytics.

  • The challenges and lessons of building a hardware-software platform for elite sport.

About Jacob Rothman
Jacob Rothman co-founded Perch at MIT after a back injury inspired him to find a safer, smarter way for athletes to train. Since 2017, Perch has become a trusted solution for pro teams, collegiate programs, and elite training facilities, capturing over 500 million reps in the weight room. In June 2025, Catapult acquired Perch to bring non-invasive, AI-powered strength analytics into its global athlete performance ecosystem. Today, Jacob leads Strength at Catapult, driving innovation in integrated performance and health solutions.

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

  • ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
  • ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
  • ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
  • ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
  • ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
  • ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
  • ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
  • ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research
]]> This week on the Science for Sport Podcast, host Richard Graves sits down with Jacob Rothman, founder of Perch and now Head of Strength at Catapult, to explore how camera-based, AI-driven technology is changing strength and conditioning, velocity-based training, and athlete monitoring in elite sport.

Jacob shares the journey from an MIT startup to being trusted by pro teams, collegiate programs, and the military, and how the recent Catapult acquisition of Perch is creating a seamless ecosystem that connects weight-room data with on-field performance metrics.

What you’ll learn in this episode

  • How camera-based velocity-based training (VBT) is revolutionising athlete monitoring.

  • Why closing the feedback loop in the weight room is a game-changer for S&C coaches and sports scientists.

  • Real-world insights: how LSU Football leveraged Perch to fuel a national championship season.

  • What the Catapult–Perch integration means for the future of athlete data and performance analytics.

  • The challenges and lessons of building a hardware-software platform for elite sport.

About Jacob Rothman
Jacob Rothman co-founded Perch at MIT after a back injury inspired him to find a safer, smarter way for athletes to train. Since 2017, Perch has become a trusted solution for pro teams, collegiate programs, and elite training facilities, capturing over 500 million reps in the weight room. In June 2025, Catapult acquired Perch to bring non-invasive, AI-powered strength analytics into its global athlete performance ecosystem. Today, Jacob leads Strength at Catapult, driving innovation in integrated performance and health solutions.

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

  • ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
  • ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
  • ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
  • ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
  • ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
  • ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
  • ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
  • ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research
]]> 264: Catapult's Vector 8: The Future of Athlete Monitoring Unveiled http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/264 e8f61c79-86c3-4811-9d8f-5f8f2d0988ce Mon, 21 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0100 Science for Sport 264 Catapult's Vector 8: The Future of Athlete Monitoring Unveiled full Science for Sport In this episode of the Science for Sport podcast, we chat with Jacques Groenewald, Vice President of Engineering at Catapult, about the revolutionary Vector 8 system. Discover how this cutting-edge technology is set to transform athlete monitoring and performance optimisation, enabling real-time data analysis and enhancing decision-making for coaches and athletes alike. 41:35 no Join us this week on the Science for Sport podcast as we dive into an exciting conversation with Jacques Groenewald, the Vice President of Engineering at Catapult. In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking Vector 8 system, a revolutionary product that is set to transform athlete monitoring and performance optimisation. Jacques shares his journey from electronics to sports technology, revealing the years of research and development that culminated in the creation of Vector 8. Discover how this innovative system enhances real-time data collection, enabling coaches and athletes to make informed decisions on the fly. With its user-friendly design and powerful capabilities, Vector 8 promises to streamline workflows and improve efficiency for elite teams. We discuss the unique features that set Vector 8 apart from previous technologies, including its ability to handle up to 120 athletes simultaneously and its advanced AI integration for deeper insights. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this episode will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how Vector 8 is poised to redefine the future of sports performance. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the technology that is not just changing the game but revolutionising how we understand and enhance athletic performance. Tune in to find out why Vector 8 is the must-have tool for elite teams around the world! About Jacques Groenewald Jacques Groenewald is the Vice President of Engineering at Catapult, where he plays a pivotal role in the development of cutting-edge sports technology. With nearly two decades of experience in product development, Jacques has a rich background that spans electronics, big data, and sports technology. His journey began with a passion for electronics, leading him to work in various sectors, including semiconductors and industrial applications. Jacques's expertise in product management and engineering has been instrumental in the creation of Catapult's game changing Vector 8 system, which is set to redefine athlete monitoring and performance optimisation. His commitment to enhancing the user experience and simplifying complex data processes reflects his belief that technology should empower athletes and coaches alike. Jacques's innovative mindset and dedication to pushing the boundaries of sports science make him a key figure in the evolution of athlete performance technology. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast/id1506431005) Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5maXJlc2lkZS5mbS9zY2llbmNlZm9yc3BvcnQvcnNz?sa=X&ved=0CAIQ4aUDahcKEwj43vyLxbrrAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA) Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5DZlm3bNyPQd1QknUxCWTz?si=yHWOt3LORfeGgp7i31ey8g) Stitcher (https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast) sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries, data, analytics, sports data, sport analysis, catapult, athlete monitoring Join us this week on the Science for Sport podcast as we dive into an exciting conversation with Jacques Groenewald, the Vice President of Engineering at Catapult. In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking Vector 8 system, a revolutionary product that is set to transform athlete monitoring and performance optimisation.

Jacques shares his journey from electronics to sports technology, revealing the years of research and development that culminated in the creation of Vector 8. Discover how this innovative system enhances real-time data collection, enabling coaches and athletes to make informed decisions on the fly. With its user-friendly design and powerful capabilities, Vector 8 promises to streamline workflows and improve efficiency for elite teams.

We discuss the unique features that set Vector 8 apart from previous technologies, including its ability to handle up to 120 athletes simultaneously and its advanced AI integration for deeper insights.

Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this episode will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how Vector 8 is poised to redefine the future of sports performance.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the technology that is not just changing the game but revolutionising how we understand and enhance athletic performance. Tune in to find out why Vector 8 is the must-have tool for elite teams around the world!

About Jacques Groenewald
Jacques Groenewald is the Vice President of Engineering at Catapult, where he plays a pivotal role in the development of cutting-edge sports technology. With nearly two decades of experience in product development, Jacques has a rich background that spans electronics, big data, and sports technology. His journey began with a passion for electronics, leading him to work in various sectors, including semiconductors and industrial applications. Jacques's expertise in product management and engineering has been instrumental in the creation of Catapult's game changing Vector 8 system, which is set to redefine athlete monitoring and performance optimisation. His commitment to enhancing the user experience and simplifying complex data processes reflects his belief that technology should empower athletes and coaches alike. Jacques's innovative mindset and dedication to pushing the boundaries of sports science make him a key figure in the evolution of athlete performance technology.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> Join us this week on the Science for Sport podcast as we dive into an exciting conversation with Jacques Groenewald, the Vice President of Engineering at Catapult. In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking Vector 8 system, a revolutionary product that is set to transform athlete monitoring and performance optimisation.

Jacques shares his journey from electronics to sports technology, revealing the years of research and development that culminated in the creation of Vector 8. Discover how this innovative system enhances real-time data collection, enabling coaches and athletes to make informed decisions on the fly. With its user-friendly design and powerful capabilities, Vector 8 promises to streamline workflows and improve efficiency for elite teams.

We discuss the unique features that set Vector 8 apart from previous technologies, including its ability to handle up to 120 athletes simultaneously and its advanced AI integration for deeper insights.

Whether you're a coach, athlete, or sports enthusiast, this episode will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how Vector 8 is poised to redefine the future of sports performance.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the technology that is not just changing the game but revolutionising how we understand and enhance athletic performance. Tune in to find out why Vector 8 is the must-have tool for elite teams around the world!

About Jacques Groenewald
Jacques Groenewald is the Vice President of Engineering at Catapult, where he plays a pivotal role in the development of cutting-edge sports technology. With nearly two decades of experience in product development, Jacques has a rich background that spans electronics, big data, and sports technology. His journey began with a passion for electronics, leading him to work in various sectors, including semiconductors and industrial applications. Jacques's expertise in product management and engineering has been instrumental in the creation of Catapult's game changing Vector 8 system, which is set to redefine athlete monitoring and performance optimisation. His commitment to enhancing the user experience and simplifying complex data processes reflects his belief that technology should empower athletes and coaches alike. Jacques's innovative mindset and dedication to pushing the boundaries of sports science make him a key figure in the evolution of athlete performance technology.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> 259: Every Impact Matters: The Game-Changing Initiative http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/259 9b4b6daf-ebc8-4704-b536-abbca5bffa30 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Science for Sport 259 Every Impact Matters: The Game-Changing Initiative full Science for Sport Join us as we explore how the Denver Broncos Foundation and Riddell are revolutionising youth sport through an unprecedented state-wide smart helmet initiative. Discover how real-time impact data from 13,000 athletes is transforming player safety and coaching methodology, potentially creating the blueprint for the future of contact sports. This groundbreaking programme isn't just changing football in Colorado - it's reshaping how we think about youth sport safety worldwide. 28:55 no In this fascinating deep-dive, we explore a groundbreaking initiative that's set to revolutionise our understanding of impact forces in youth American football. The Denver Broncos Foundation and Riddell are launching an unprecedented state-wide programme that will generate millions of data points on player impacts, technique, and load management at the secondary school level. But the real story goes beyond the helmets. How does a thin proprietary film inside each helmet capture and translate impact data? What insights can coaches extract from nearly a million recorded impacts across 13,000 secondary school athletes? And most intriguingly - could this massive data collection effort fundamentally change how we approach technique development and injury prevention in contact sports? Join us as we dissect the technology with Riddell's Brian Kopp and explore the programme's implementation with the Broncos Foundation's Allie Engelken. We'll examine: The science behind impact sensing technology How real-time analytics are revolutionising coaching methodology The potential implications for evidence-based practice in youth sports Whether you're a sports scientist, strength coach, or performance specialist, this episode offers unprecedented insights into the future of data-driven player development. This isn't just about American football - it's about understanding how technology can bridge the gap between elite and grassroots sports science. About Allie Engelken As Executive Director of the Denver Broncos Foundation, Allie Engelken is driving transformative change in youth sports across Colorado. With extensive experience in community development and sports philanthropy, she leads strategic initiatives that bridge the gap between professional and grassroots sports. Under her leadership, the Foundation has launched unprecedented programs, including the largest statewide smart helmet initiative in American football history. Her work focuses on removing barriers to participation while elevating safety standards in youth sports through innovative partnerships and technology adoption. About Brian Kopp A pioneering figure in sports technology and analytics, Brian Kopp serves as Senior Vice President at Riddell, where he leads the development and implementation of their groundbreaking smart helmet technology. With over two decades of experience in sports innovation, Brian previously held executive positions at STATS LLC and SportRadar, where he transformed how data is used in professional sports. His expertise spans across player tracking, performance analytics, and safety technology development, making him one of the industry's leading voices in sports science and equipment innovation. sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries, sports science, athlete development, football safety, smart technology, sports analytics, youth sports, performance data, coaching technology, sports innovation, impact analysis, player safety, sports technology, athletic performance, sports research, Denver Broncos, NFL, sports education, sports data, athlete monitoring, injury prevention In this fascinating deep-dive, we explore a groundbreaking initiative that's set to revolutionise our understanding of impact forces in youth American football. The Denver Broncos Foundation and Riddell are launching an unprecedented state-wide programme that will generate millions of data points on player impacts, technique, and load management at the secondary school level.

But the real story goes beyond the helmets. How does a thin proprietary film inside each helmet capture and translate impact data? What insights can coaches extract from nearly a million recorded impacts across 13,000 secondary school athletes? And most intriguingly - could this massive data collection effort fundamentally change how we approach technique development and injury prevention in contact sports?

Join us as we dissect the technology with Riddell's Brian Kopp and explore the programme's implementation with the Broncos Foundation's Allie Engelken. We'll examine:
The science behind impact sensing technology
How real-time analytics are revolutionising coaching methodology
The potential implications for evidence-based practice in youth sports
Whether you're a sports scientist, strength coach, or performance specialist, this episode offers unprecedented insights into the future of data-driven player development.
This isn't just about American football - it's about understanding how technology can bridge the gap between elite and grassroots sports science.

About Allie Engelken
As Executive Director of the Denver Broncos Foundation, Allie Engelken is driving transformative change in youth sports across Colorado. With extensive experience in community development and sports philanthropy, she leads strategic initiatives that bridge the gap between professional and grassroots sports. Under her leadership, the Foundation has launched unprecedented programs, including the largest statewide smart helmet initiative in American football history. Her work focuses on removing barriers to participation while elevating safety standards in youth sports through innovative partnerships and technology adoption.

About Brian Kopp
A pioneering figure in sports technology and analytics, Brian Kopp serves as Senior Vice President at Riddell, where he leads the development and implementation of their groundbreaking smart helmet technology. With over two decades of experience in sports innovation, Brian previously held executive positions at STATS LLC and SportRadar, where he transformed how data is used in professional sports. His expertise spans across player tracking, performance analytics, and safety technology development, making him one of the industry's leading voices in sports science and equipment innovation.

]]> In this fascinating deep-dive, we explore a groundbreaking initiative that's set to revolutionise our understanding of impact forces in youth American football. The Denver Broncos Foundation and Riddell are launching an unprecedented state-wide programme that will generate millions of data points on player impacts, technique, and load management at the secondary school level.

But the real story goes beyond the helmets. How does a thin proprietary film inside each helmet capture and translate impact data? What insights can coaches extract from nearly a million recorded impacts across 13,000 secondary school athletes? And most intriguingly - could this massive data collection effort fundamentally change how we approach technique development and injury prevention in contact sports?

Join us as we dissect the technology with Riddell's Brian Kopp and explore the programme's implementation with the Broncos Foundation's Allie Engelken. We'll examine:
The science behind impact sensing technology
How real-time analytics are revolutionising coaching methodology
The potential implications for evidence-based practice in youth sports
Whether you're a sports scientist, strength coach, or performance specialist, this episode offers unprecedented insights into the future of data-driven player development.
This isn't just about American football - it's about understanding how technology can bridge the gap between elite and grassroots sports science.

About Allie Engelken
As Executive Director of the Denver Broncos Foundation, Allie Engelken is driving transformative change in youth sports across Colorado. With extensive experience in community development and sports philanthropy, she leads strategic initiatives that bridge the gap between professional and grassroots sports. Under her leadership, the Foundation has launched unprecedented programs, including the largest statewide smart helmet initiative in American football history. Her work focuses on removing barriers to participation while elevating safety standards in youth sports through innovative partnerships and technology adoption.

About Brian Kopp
A pioneering figure in sports technology and analytics, Brian Kopp serves as Senior Vice President at Riddell, where he leads the development and implementation of their groundbreaking smart helmet technology. With over two decades of experience in sports innovation, Brian previously held executive positions at STATS LLC and SportRadar, where he transformed how data is used in professional sports. His expertise spans across player tracking, performance analytics, and safety technology development, making him one of the industry's leading voices in sports science and equipment innovation.

]]> 253: Jeff Reinebold: This Coaching Lesson Changed Everything http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/253 85cd7001-82e8-4f0b-82ba-ad965dc8e163 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Science for Sport 253 Jeff Reinebold: This Coaching Lesson Changed Everything full Science for Sport Legendary coach Jeff Reinebold (NFL, CFL, Sky Sports) shares 4 decades of wisdom on merging sports science with human connection. Learn how player safety, mentorship, and tech like Catapult redefine performance—proving care is the ultimate metric. Essential for coaches and scientists chasing legacy, not just data. 31:21 no Jeff Reinebold: Four Decades of Sports Science, Mentorship, and Saving Athletes’ Futures" What if the key to unlocking peak performance isn’t just data or drills—but care? Join coaching legend Jeff Reinebold—a pioneer across the NFL, CFL, NCAA, and Sky Sports—as he unveils the untold secrets behind football’s evolution. In this episode, Reinebold (coach, broadcaster, and sports science advocate) pulls back the curtain on: *Tech’s Game-Changing Role: *How Catapult and modern metrics transformed player safety—and why “old-school grit” alone can’t protect athletes. *The Vermeil Effect: *Lessons from NFL icon Dick Vermeil on mentoring players before metrics existed—and why “care” is vital. *Avoiding Catastrophe: *The heart-stopping story of a player’s death that reshaped Reinebold’s approach to conditioning—and what every coach must learn. *Future-Proofing Football: *Can AI and wearables coexist with locker-room soul? Reinebold’s blueprint for blending tradition with innovation. Why Sports Science Pros Need This Episode: Actionable Insights: Learn how to balance hard data with human connection—a skill critical for today’s athlete development. Safety First: Discover protocols to prevent overtraining, reduce injuries, and build trust (backed by 50 years of trial-by-fire experience). *Legacy Building: *Steal Vermeil’s mentorship playbook for creating cultures where players and tech thrive. This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a masterclass from a man who’s coached on three continents, survived football’s analog-to-digital revolution, and still believes the game’s future hinges on one question: Do your athletes know you care? Listen now and redefine what “science” means in your playbook. ** About Jeff Reinebold** Jeff Reinebold is an American football coach with over four decades of experience across collegiate and professional levels. Born on November 19, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, he played defensive back at the University of Maine before embarking on a diverse coaching career. Reinebold has held positions in the Canadian Football League (CFL), NFL Europe, and NCAA, serving teams such as the BC Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Notably, he contributed to the University of Hawai‘i's successful 2006 and 2007 seasons, which included a historic BCS bowl appearance. Beyond coaching, Reinebold is recognized as an NFL analyst for Sky Sports in the UK and hosts "The Jeff Reinebold Show." As of 2024, he serves as the defensive tackles coach for the University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast/id1506431005) Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5maXJlc2lkZS5mbS9zY2llbmNlZm9yc3BvcnQvcnNz?sa=X&ved=0CAIQ4aUDahcKEwj43vyLxbrrAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA) Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5DZlm3bNyPQd1QknUxCWTz?si=yHWOt3LORfeGgp7i31ey8g) Stitcher (https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast) sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries, tech, data, NFL, american football Jeff Reinebold: Four Decades of Sports Science, Mentorship, and Saving Athletes’ Futures"

What if the key to unlocking peak performance isn’t just data or drills—but care? Join coaching legend Jeff Reinebold—a pioneer across the NFL, CFL, NCAA, and Sky Sports—as he unveils the untold secrets behind football’s evolution.

In this episode, Reinebold (coach, broadcaster, and sports science advocate) pulls back the curtain on:

**Tech’s Game-Changing Role: **How Catapult and modern metrics transformed player safety—and why “old-school grit” alone can’t protect athletes.

**The Vermeil Effect: **Lessons from NFL icon Dick Vermeil on mentoring players before metrics existed—and why “care” is vital.

**Avoiding Catastrophe: **The heart-stopping story of a player’s death that reshaped Reinebold’s approach to conditioning—and what every coach must learn.

**Future-Proofing Football: **Can AI and wearables coexist with locker-room soul? Reinebold’s blueprint for blending tradition with innovation.

Why Sports Science Pros Need This Episode:

Actionable Insights: Learn how to balance hard data with human connection—a skill critical for today’s athlete development.

Safety First: Discover protocols to prevent overtraining, reduce injuries, and build trust (backed by 50 years of trial-by-fire experience).

**Legacy Building: **Steal Vermeil’s mentorship playbook for creating cultures where players and tech thrive.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a masterclass from a man who’s coached on three continents, survived football’s analog-to-digital revolution, and still believes the game’s future hinges on one question: Do your athletes know you care?

Listen now and redefine what “science” means in your playbook.

** About Jeff Reinebold**
Jeff Reinebold is an American football coach with over four decades of experience across collegiate and professional levels. Born on November 19, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, he played defensive back at the University of Maine before embarking on a diverse coaching career. Reinebold has held positions in the Canadian Football League (CFL), NFL Europe, and NCAA, serving teams such as the BC Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Notably, he contributed to the University of Hawai‘i's successful 2006 and 2007 seasons, which included a historic BCS bowl appearance. Beyond coaching, Reinebold is recognized as an NFL analyst for Sky Sports in the UK and hosts "The Jeff Reinebold Show." As of 2024, he serves as the defensive tackles coach for the University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> Jeff Reinebold: Four Decades of Sports Science, Mentorship, and Saving Athletes’ Futures"

What if the key to unlocking peak performance isn’t just data or drills—but care? Join coaching legend Jeff Reinebold—a pioneer across the NFL, CFL, NCAA, and Sky Sports—as he unveils the untold secrets behind football’s evolution.

In this episode, Reinebold (coach, broadcaster, and sports science advocate) pulls back the curtain on:

**Tech’s Game-Changing Role: **How Catapult and modern metrics transformed player safety—and why “old-school grit” alone can’t protect athletes.

**The Vermeil Effect: **Lessons from NFL icon Dick Vermeil on mentoring players before metrics existed—and why “care” is vital.

**Avoiding Catastrophe: **The heart-stopping story of a player’s death that reshaped Reinebold’s approach to conditioning—and what every coach must learn.

**Future-Proofing Football: **Can AI and wearables coexist with locker-room soul? Reinebold’s blueprint for blending tradition with innovation.

Why Sports Science Pros Need This Episode:

Actionable Insights: Learn how to balance hard data with human connection—a skill critical for today’s athlete development.

Safety First: Discover protocols to prevent overtraining, reduce injuries, and build trust (backed by 50 years of trial-by-fire experience).

**Legacy Building: **Steal Vermeil’s mentorship playbook for creating cultures where players and tech thrive.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a masterclass from a man who’s coached on three continents, survived football’s analog-to-digital revolution, and still believes the game’s future hinges on one question: Do your athletes know you care?

Listen now and redefine what “science” means in your playbook.

** About Jeff Reinebold**
Jeff Reinebold is an American football coach with over four decades of experience across collegiate and professional levels. Born on November 19, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, he played defensive back at the University of Maine before embarking on a diverse coaching career. Reinebold has held positions in the Canadian Football League (CFL), NFL Europe, and NCAA, serving teams such as the BC Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Notably, he contributed to the University of Hawai‘i's successful 2006 and 2007 seasons, which included a historic BCS bowl appearance. Beyond coaching, Reinebold is recognized as an NFL analyst for Sky Sports in the UK and hosts "The Jeff Reinebold Show." As of 2024, he serves as the defensive tackles coach for the University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warriors.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> 252: How to Maximise Athlete Performance & Recovery http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/252 f0354f7a-6b3f-4aaf-ba92-c3b9cdc8daca Mon, 27 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000 Science for Sport 252 How to Maximise Athlete Performance & Recovery full Science for Sport From winning the Heineken Cup with Leinster Rugby to shaping the future of athlete recovery and performance data, Dr Peter Tierney shares key insights from his diverse career. Discover the biggest mistakes in replicating success, the science behind tailored recovery strategies, and how wearable tech is transforming sport. 29:21 no This week we are unlocking the Secrets of Elite Performance with Dr Peter Tierney! From the high-pressure world of professional rugby and football to cutting-edge performance apparel, Dr Peter Tierney has seen it all. In this episode, we dive deep into what it takes to win at the highest level, exploring the critical lessons from his time with Leinster Rugby’s Heineken Cup-winning squad, the evolving science of athlete recovery, and the power of data in shaping the future of sports performance. Discover: * The biggest mistakes teams make when trying to replicate success * Why recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all approach – and how to get it right * How wearable tech is changing the game (for better or worse!) * What elite coaches like Stuart Lancaster do differently If you're serious about maximising performance, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply straight away. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports science enthusiast – you don't want to miss this one! ** About Dr Peter Tierney** Dr Peter Tierney is a highly experienced sports scientist and performance coach with over a decade of experience working across multiple sports, including rugby, football, and athletics. He has held key roles with Leinster Rugby, contributing to their Heineken Cup success, and has worked in industry innovation, focusing on performance apparel. Dr Tierney specialises in athlete recovery, data-driven performance strategies, and applying cutting-edge sports science to optimise results. He actively shares insights on social media and contributes to advancing the field through research and applied practice. FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241 ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast/id1506431005) Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5maXJlc2lkZS5mbS9zY2llbmNlZm9yc3BvcnQvcnNz?sa=X&ved=0CAIQ4aUDahcKEwj43vyLxbrrAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA) Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5DZlm3bNyPQd1QknUxCWTz?si=yHWOt3LORfeGgp7i31ey8g) Stitcher (https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast) strength and conditioning, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries, sports science, athlete recovery, performance coaching, wearable technology, elite performance, sports analytics, rugby performance, football training, strength and conditioning, Peter Tierney, Leinster Rugby, Stuart Lancaster, sports data, fitness optimisation, recovery strategies, sports science podcast, sports performance, sports technology, athlete wellness, professional sports training, coaching insights, high-performance sport, injury prevention, training intensity, recovery techniques, sports innovation, performance apparel, sports coaching, sports nutrition, elite athlete training This week we are unlocking the Secrets of Elite Performance with Dr Peter Tierney! From the high-pressure world of professional rugby and football to cutting-edge performance apparel, Dr Peter Tierney has seen it all. In this episode, we dive deep into what it takes to win at the highest level, exploring the critical lessons from his time with Leinster Rugby’s Heineken Cup-winning squad, the evolving science of athlete recovery, and the power of data in shaping the future of sports performance.
Discover:

  • The biggest mistakes teams make when trying to replicate success
  • Why recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all approach – and how to get it right
  • How wearable tech is changing the game (for better or worse!)
  • What elite coaches like Stuart Lancaster do differently

If you're serious about maximising performance, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply straight away. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports science enthusiast – you don't want to miss this one!

** About Dr Peter Tierney**
Dr Peter Tierney is a highly experienced sports scientist and performance coach with over a decade of experience working across multiple sports, including rugby, football, and athletics. He has held key roles with Leinster Rugby, contributing to their Heineken Cup success, and has worked in industry innovation, focusing on performance apparel. Dr Tierney specialises in athlete recovery, data-driven performance strategies, and applying cutting-edge sports science to optimise results. He actively shares insights on social media and contributes to advancing the field through research and applied practice.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> This week we are unlocking the Secrets of Elite Performance with Dr Peter Tierney! From the high-pressure world of professional rugby and football to cutting-edge performance apparel, Dr Peter Tierney has seen it all. In this episode, we dive deep into what it takes to win at the highest level, exploring the critical lessons from his time with Leinster Rugby’s Heineken Cup-winning squad, the evolving science of athlete recovery, and the power of data in shaping the future of sports performance.
Discover:

  • The biggest mistakes teams make when trying to replicate success
  • Why recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all approach – and how to get it right
  • How wearable tech is changing the game (for better or worse!)
  • What elite coaches like Stuart Lancaster do differently

If you're serious about maximising performance, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply straight away. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports science enthusiast – you don't want to miss this one!

** About Dr Peter Tierney**
Dr Peter Tierney is a highly experienced sports scientist and performance coach with over a decade of experience working across multiple sports, including rugby, football, and athletics. He has held key roles with Leinster Rugby, contributing to their Heineken Cup success, and has worked in industry innovation, focusing on performance apparel. Dr Tierney specialises in athlete recovery, data-driven performance strategies, and applying cutting-edge sports science to optimise results. He actively shares insights on social media and contributes to advancing the field through research and applied practice.

FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> 179: Why Data Visualisation Can Be The Key To Unlocking Elite Performance http://scienceforsport.fireside.fm/179 9b58d908-eb73-4927-9ec3-2004e35ff234 Mon, 04 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0100 Science for Sport 179 Why Data Visualisation Can Be The Key To Unlocking Elite Performance full Science for Sport Come with us as we delve into the mysterious and exciting world of sports science… This entertaining podcast explores: • The science behind the world’s best athletes. • Current issues and events in the world of sport. • How to master the art and science of coaching. Every Monday, Matt Solomon chats with various experts to uncover the science and secrets behind what makes the best athletes in the world so damn good at what they do. They’ll also dive into global issues and events effecting the world of sport, such as COVID-19 and gene doping. Though anyone is welcome to join us on this journey, this podcast is primarily for: • S&C coaches/sports scientists • Physiotherapists • Nutritionists/Dieticians • Physical education teachers • Sports enthusiasts • Knowledge-seeking athletes If you’re any of the above, we challenge you to listen to an episode and not fall in love with this laugh-out-loud, brain-swelling podcast. 26:09 no In episode 179 Arian Forouhandeh, 1st Team Sport Scientist & Data Analyst at Wolverhamptom Wanderers, joins us. Specifically Arian will be looking at: Importance of data visualisation How best communicate data Examples of how he communicates data About Arian: "Arian is a 1st Team Sport Scientist & Data Analyst for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. He holds a Masters Degree in Exercise Physiology, as well as appropriate Data Science & Visualisation certification. Specialising in Sports Performance Data, he has been able to transform the physical data processes in his role in order to answer performance questions and identify actionable insights. Also through his business ‘Data In Sport’, he has worked with several organisations around the world. Transforming and designing their data processes and visualisations, has led to a fluid approach towards finding solutions found in different datasets. This includes visualising their data in a bespoke fashion, and providing quality insights for these practitioners." LinkedIn: Arian Forouhandeh Twitter: ArianF14 Instagram: DataInSport Website: www.datainsport.com Power Bi for Sports 📊 (scienceforsport.com) Nominate future podcast guests here! If you want to hear from a particular person on a particular topic, let us know! Hit the link below and we'll see what we can whip up for you. https://www.scienceforsport.com/nominate/ FREE 7d COACH ACADEMY TRIAL SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/sfsepisode179 JOIN THE SCIENCE FOR SPORT TEAM: https://www.scienceforsport.com/join-our-team/ ​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively, Freeing Up Time To Spend With Friends And Family ​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery ​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In ​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese ​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More ​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance ​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes ​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research 🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast/id1506431005) Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5maXJlc2lkZS5mbS9zY2llbmNlZm9yc3BvcnQvcnNz?sa=X&ved=0CAIQ4aUDahcKEwj43vyLxbrrAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA) Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5DZlm3bNyPQd1QknUxCWTz?si=yHWOt3LORfeGgp7i31ey8g) Stitcher (https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/science-for-sport-podcast) sports science, sport science, strength and conditioning, S&C, performance, athlete, sport, exercise, nutrition, injury, injuries In episode 179 Arian Forouhandeh, 1st Team Sport Scientist & Data Analyst at Wolverhamptom Wanderers, joins us.

Specifically Arian will be looking at:

  • Importance of data visualisation
  • How best communicate data
  • Examples of how he communicates data

About Arian:

"Arian is a 1st Team Sport Scientist & Data Analyst for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. He holds a Masters Degree in Exercise Physiology, as well as appropriate Data Science & Visualisation certification. Specialising in Sports Performance Data, he has been able to transform the physical data processes in his role in order to answer performance questions and identify actionable insights. Also through his business ‘Data In Sport’, he has worked with several organisations around the world. Transforming and designing their data processes and visualisations, has led to a fluid approach towards finding solutions found in different datasets. This includes visualising their data in a bespoke fashion, and providing quality insights for these practitioners."

LinkedIn: Arian Forouhandeh
Twitter: ArianF14
Instagram: DataInSport
Website: www.datainsport.com

Power Bi for Sports 📊 (scienceforsport.com)

Nominate future podcast guests here!

If you want to hear from a particular person on a particular topic, let us know! Hit the link below and we'll see what we can whip up for you.

https://www.scienceforsport.com/nominate/

FREE 7d COACH ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW:

https://bit.ly/sfsepisode179

JOIN THE SCIENCE FOR SPORT TEAM:

https://www.scienceforsport.com/join-our-team/

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively, Freeing Up Time To Spend With Friends And Family
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]> In episode 179 Arian Forouhandeh, 1st Team Sport Scientist & Data Analyst at Wolverhamptom Wanderers, joins us.

Specifically Arian will be looking at:

  • Importance of data visualisation
  • How best communicate data
  • Examples of how he communicates data

About Arian:

"Arian is a 1st Team Sport Scientist & Data Analyst for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC. He holds a Masters Degree in Exercise Physiology, as well as appropriate Data Science & Visualisation certification. Specialising in Sports Performance Data, he has been able to transform the physical data processes in his role in order to answer performance questions and identify actionable insights. Also through his business ‘Data In Sport’, he has worked with several organisations around the world. Transforming and designing their data processes and visualisations, has led to a fluid approach towards finding solutions found in different datasets. This includes visualising their data in a bespoke fashion, and providing quality insights for these practitioners."

LinkedIn: Arian Forouhandeh
Twitter: ArianF14
Instagram: DataInSport
Website: www.datainsport.com

Power Bi for Sports 📊 (scienceforsport.com)

Nominate future podcast guests here!

If you want to hear from a particular person on a particular topic, let us know! Hit the link below and we'll see what we can whip up for you.

https://www.scienceforsport.com/nominate/

FREE 7d COACH ACADEMY TRIAL

SIGN UP NOW:

https://bit.ly/sfsepisode179

JOIN THE SCIENCE FOR SPORT TEAM:

https://www.scienceforsport.com/join-our-team/

​ Learn Quicker & More Effectively, Freeing Up Time To Spend With Friends And Family
​ Optimise Your Athletes' Recovery
​ Position Yourself As An Expert To Your Athletes And Naturally Improve Buy-In
​ Reduce Your Athletes' Injury Ratese
​ Save 100's Of Dollars A Year That Would Otherwise Be Spent On Books, Courses And More
​ Improve Your Athletes' Performance
​ Advance Forward In Your Career, Allowing You To Earn More Money And Work With Elite-Level Athletes
​ Save Yourself The Stress & Worry Of Constantly Trying To Stay Up-To-Date With Sports Science Research

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform

]]>