Letter to the Editor RE: The Balance Between Science and Practice - Some Thoughts from an Academic Practitioner

This was an informative read and the responses by Prof Graeme Close resonate with the experiences and challenges faced by performance analysis. Research in the discipline has historically used isolated variables, reporting generalised findings, which lack specific context. These studies are often outdated, reporting on performances, which occurred up to 10 years prior to publication. These problems may provide supporting evidence as to why coaches find it difficult to translate performance analysis research into practice. However, research in the discipline is shifting towards the generation of more meaningful data, increasing coaches’ use of research to inform their practices. In agreement with Prof Close’s comments, I have found athletes often value the findings from research more than coaches. Athletes, especially in team sports, want to secure their position or push other players out. These individuals appear more receptive to listening to and incorporating findings within their training. To further assist athletes and begin to encourage coaches to use research to support practice, I agree with the point made by Prof Close regarding the need for research training. Coach education provisions should include research training, yet athletes should also be provided with the opportunity to enhance their own knowledge and understanding. The combination of education and advancements in technology allows for a variety of platforms to be used to share the information, this can only benefit coaches, athletes and support staff practices and performances moving forward.