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Feb 2025
34m 49s

256: Catapult: Rugby's Game-Changing Dat...

Science for Sport
About this episode

From GPS Tracking to Game-Changing Analytics: The Evolution of Rugby Performance Technology
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Tom May, former international rugby player and current Head of Global Rugby at Catapult Sports. In this episode, we dive deep into how cutting-edge technology is revolutionising rugby performance analysis and player welfare.

Key discussion points include:

  • How advanced analytics are transforming rugby from traditional 'brute force' approaches to data-driven decision making
  • The crucial role of contextualising performance data for meaningful insights
  • Latest innovations in player safety technology, including smart mouthguards for concussion detection
  • Unique considerations in women's rugby performance monitoring and injury prevention
  • The future of sports technology in broadcasting and fan engagement

Whether you're a sports scientist, coach, or performance analyst, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology is shaping the future of rugby at all levels. May shares candid perspectives from both sides of the fence - as a former player and now a technology leader - making this a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports science and professional rugby.

About Tom May
A former international rugby player with an illustrious playing career spanning nearly two decades, Tom May brings unique insights from both sides of the professional rugby world. After making his debut in 1999 and playing at the highest levels of the sport, Tom has successfully transitioned into the sports technology sector. Now serving as Head of Global Rugby at Catapult Sports, he combines his extensive playing experience with a passion for advancing rugby through technology and analytics. His dual perspective as both a former player and technology leader makes him uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between traditional rugby culture and its data-driven future.

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