Performance Analyst - Rugby Union

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Medical and dental insurance

Professional development opportunities

Travel expenses covered for away games

Job summary

Placements24 client, a leading rugby union team in Welkom, Free State, seeks a highly analytical Performance Analyst to collect, analyze, and interpret performance data from training and matches. You will provide actionable insights to coaches and players, develop KPIs, build databases, and create tools.

Travel with the team and stay ahead of trends. Strong rugby knowledge and communication skills are essential; 4+ years in performance analysis preferred.

Qualifications

• A degree in Sports Science, Performance Analysis, Data Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a performance analysis role, preferably within professional rugby or high-performance sport.
• Proficiency with performance analysis software such as Hudl, Sportscode, or NacSport.
• Strong statistical analysis skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Excellent video editing and presentation skills.
• A thorough understanding of rugby union tactics, strategies, and game dynamics.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to non-technical audiences.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to travel extensively with the team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze match and training data.
• Provide detailed statistical reports and video breakdowns to coaching staff.
• Identify strengths and weaknesses of team and opposition; offer strategic recommendations.
• Develop and maintain databases of player and team statistics.
• Collaborate with coaches to define KPIs and create analytical tools.
• Prepare pre-match analysis presentations for coaching staff and players.
• Post-match reviews and debriefings with stakeholders.
• Stay updated on trends and technologies in sports performance analysis.
• Contribute to player training programs based on data.
• Ensure data integrity across analytics processes.
• Assist in scouting and opposition analysis for fixtures.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

Communication

Excel proficiency

Education

BSc in Sports Science or related field

Tools

Hudl

Sportscode

NacSport

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent professional rugby union team based in Welkom, Free State , is looking for a highly analytical and motivated Performance Analyst . This crucial role involves the detailed collection, analysis, and interpretation of performance data from training sessions and matches to provide actionable insights for coaches and players. The goal is to enhance team strategy, individual player development, and overall performance on the field. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of rugby union, advanced data analysis skills, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a high-performance environment within the dynamic world of professional sports in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze match and training data using specialized software (e.g., Hudl, NacSport).
• Provide detailed statistical reports and video breakdowns to the coaching staff, highlighting team and individual performance trends.
• Identify strengths and weaknesses of both the team and opposition, providing strategic recommendations.
• Develop and maintain databases of player and team statistics.
• Collaborate with coaches to define key performance indicators (KPIs) and create bespoke analytical tools.
• Prepare pre-match analysis presentations for the coaching team and players.
• Post-match review and debriefing sessions with the relevant stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in sports performance analysis.
• Contribute to the development of player training programs based on performance data.
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy across all analytical processes.
• Assist in scouting and opposition analysis for upcoming fixtures.

Requirements

• A degree in Sports Science, Performance Analysis, Data Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a performance analysis role, preferably within professional rugby union or a similar high-performance sport.
• Proficiency with performance analysis software such as Hudl, Sportscode, or NacSport.
• Strong statistical analysis skills and the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Excellent video editing and presentation skills.
• A thorough understanding of rugby union tactics, strategies, and game dynamics.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information effectively to non-technical audiences.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, often during match weekends.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Willingness to travel extensively with the team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance is provided for the employee.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training courses and certifications, are supported.
• The role includes travel expenses covered during team away fixtures.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment within a professional sporting organization is guaranteed.
• This role is based in Welkom , offering a unique opportunity to engage deeply with the sporting community in the Free State .