From roots to branches: Developing relational, practical, and technical competencies in performance analysis

Whilst performance analysis is a key component of sport science and coaching practice, the novelty of this research is its focus on the often-overlooked skills and competencies needed to operate effectively within applied environments. The study explored how performance analysts collaborate with coaches and athletes in high performance sport, emphasising the relational, practical and technical competencies that underpin successful practice. Thirty-eight (38) performance analysts (experience 7.2 ± 3.8 years) in the elite UK performance analysis system completed semi-structured interviews (24 questions, lasting 38 ± 12 min), which were analysed using Braun and Clarke (2006) six-step approach. Findings highlighted that effective performance analysis relies on technical expertise, practical skills, and relational competencies. Trust, openness, and credibility were central to collaboration, while technical skills such as data collection, analysis, and tailored feedback ensured outputs were accurate and actionable. Analysts navigated organisational, technological, and resource constraints, with soft skills including adaptability, resilience, and communication critical to overcoming barriers and achieving applied impact. A tree analogy illustrates the main thematic areas (1 data and video, 2 analysis, 3 feedback, 4 trust and openness, 5 knowledge, 6 culture, and 7 challenges), their sub-components, and the interwoven soft/hard skills underpinning effective daily practice. These findings have clear implications for educational providers and practitioners across all career stages, offering practical guidance to enhance applied practice.