“Performance Analysis is an objective way of recording performance so that key elements of that performance can be quantified in a valid and consistent manner.”
Membership and Accreditation:
Being a member of ISPAS opens up a World of opportunities including networking, sharing ideas and gaining acknowledgment for your work in the field of analysis. Their main aim is as follows:
The ISPAS exists to provide an infrastructure of professionalisation, information and training opportunities for all Performance Analysts, whether they be interested amateurs, professional consultants or academics.
A couple of years ago after being involved in numerous analysis environments – including University, my own coaching and professional sport I was looking to meet new people in the field and expand my own credentials as a performance analyst.
I came across ISPAS and immediately recognised the names associated with the organisation – Peter O’Donoghue, Nic James, Derek Peters et al. I started the membership process right away – for a small price (see website for classes). The different kinds of membership are:
- Individual Member: Membership is open to any individual who is interested in the application of Performance Analysis of sport.
- Fellow: Reserved for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Performance Analysis of sport over a period of years.
- Student Members: Membership is open to individuals who are attending institutions of learning as undergraduate or graduates. A student member has all the privileges of membership except those of voting and holding an elected office.
- Special Member: Membership is open to specialists working in the area of Performance Analysis of sport that are unable to become members in the Association because of national or monetary problems. Individuals in the special membership have all the privileges of membership in the Association.
- Affiliate Member: Memberships is open to international and national organizations that are interested in cooperating with the Association to achieve its objectives. An affiliate member has the privilege of appointing one delegate to attend and vote at meetings of the Association.
After this I started working on my accreditation application. This process allows you to apply to become an accredited analyst at differing levels – depending on the environments you are and have worked in. The levels range from 1-7, with 7 being those analysts working at elite level and having an impact in professional sport.
This is great for CVs as it allows for recognition of your work, much like a coaching qualification you are awarded a certificate. ISPAS offer 2 types of accreditation support and they are as follows:
The Application for Immediate Accreditation
This type of accreditation is for those with relevant experience of performance analysis support with sports teams and individuals. It is not necessary for such individuals to work towards accreditation as previous and current experience will be taken into account and accreditation granted immediately.
After completing the contact details section of the form, consider these notes in selecting the level you wish to apply at and provide information to assist the accreditation panel.
The Application for Accreditation Process
This type of accreditation is for those with limited relevant experience of performance analysis support with sports teams and individuals. Applicants will work under the supervision of a mentor towards accreditation. Different levels of accreditation require different volumes and quality of experiences to be obtained. Note that the amount of time required for different levels can be done concurrently. For example, an applicant doing the appropriate quality of performance analysis support work can be accredited after 1 year’s documented experience verified by their mentor and referees from the performers they are supporting.
After completing the contact details section of the form, consider these notes in selecting the level you wish to apply at and provide information to assist the accreditation panel.
Your application is considered by the awarding panel and you’re given feedback from this as to what level you’re awarded. Other benefits include 50 % off of the annual subscription to the E-Journal ‘International Journal of Performance Analysis of Sport’ so you can keep up to date with the latest research, the opportunity to present posters and presentations at the World Congress (see my previous article), to attend organised conferences and finally to gain advice and support from the analyst World from industry experts.
All necessary documents and more details can be found on the website – along with guidance on how to complete all the forms. There is also a document outlining the criteria for all the levels of accreditation.
Taking the time to do this is extremely worthwhile and opens up a great deal of opportunities for budding or existing performance analysts.
