FEATURE: ATHLETE MONITORING ATHLETE MONITORING AND GPS DATA COLLECTION athletes as to how they are feeling HOW MUCH DOES assessment, screening or fatigue and coping. COMMUNICATION PLAY INTO monitoring testing their load is most YOUR ROLE WITH THE TEAM? likely modifi ed in the subsequent session HOW DO COMMUNICATE and they will likely be re-tested the THIS TO THE COACHES AND Communication is one of the biggest following day to identify change – THE PLAYERS? parts of my role with the team. I have which may lead to further modifi cations to ensure that if anything unusual or the player has then recovered This information is relayed to coaches is identifi ed that it is presented to all and can perform the usual workload. with recommendations on how load other relevant fi tness and medical staff should be manipulated if necessary in as well as the coaching staff . I have WHAT LEAD YOU TO YOUR the following training sessions or if there to ensure this is brought to the attention CURRENT ROLE? is any concern with players being available so that players can receive appropriate for match selection. Players get instant treatment or modifi cation to their load I was invited to present at the Seattle feedback on this assessment which to ensure they are prepared for weekly Sounders Sports Science seminar in allows them to receive any additional match play. 2017, where I connected with staff treatment and also, so they are a part members. I remained in contact with of the conversations around load WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A those members of staff after the management. I think it is important for FATIGUE LEVEL OF A PLAYER conference and then was approached the athletes to have the feedback to know IS STARTING TO BECOME to apply for a position that became they are being looked after and to have WORRISOME? available and was very fortunate to be honest discussions on how they are off ered the role and have the opportunity responding and any concerns they If a player has been identifi ed as having to travel to a new country and work have physically or mentally. substantial fatigue through the daily 42 VOLUME 36 • JUNE ISSUE 2018