Introducing Player-Driven Video Analysis to Enhance Reflective Soccer Practice

In the present study, we investigated the introduction of a cloud-based video analysis platform called Player Universe (PU) in a Danish football club. Video analysis is not a new performance-enhancing element in sport, but PU is innovative in the way players and coaches produce footage and how it facilitates reflective learning. Video analysis is executed in the (PU) platform by involving the players in the analysis process, in the sense that they are encouraged to tag game actions in video-documented football matches. Following this, players can get virtual feedback from their coach. The philosophy behind PU is to facilitate player learning through improving the quality of their deliberate practice. This paper presents a follow-up study based on a qualitative ‘Research Through Design’ approach, involving observations, interviews and statistical analysis of the use of the platform. The implementation and evaluation of PU took place in the FC Copenhagen (FCK) School of Excellence. Findings show that PU can improve youth football players’ reflection skills through consistent video analyses and tagging, that coaches are important as role models and providers of feedback, and that the use of the platform primarily stimulated deliberate practice activities. We argue that the platform has the potential to stimulate play activities, but that this potential is not being used in its current form. PU can be seen as a source of inspiration for football players and clubs as to how analytical platforms can motivate and enhance reflective learning for better in-game performance.