University of Notre Dame lecturer Tania Spiteri.
Camera IconUniversity of Notre Dame lecturer Tania Spiteri. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Local lecturer in the US to study on-field performance

Jessica NicoMidland Kalamunda Reporter

Tania Spiteri is the only Australian involved in the research, which looks to find a way to improve the performance standards, on-field decision-making and fitness capacity of more than 100 NFL officials.

She will work with a team of researchers at Purdue University in Indiana to track officials using state-of-the-art GPS technology across all playing venues.

She said the research was expected to also enable clubs to improve the profiling, strength, development and biomechanics of their players.

"The reason why our research is focused on officials is that they are responsible for crucial in-game decisions that could ultimately decide the outcome of a match," Ms Spiteri said.

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"NFL officials are constantly required to perform explosive movements to keep up with the play, as well as possess an enhanced physiological capacity and ability to make more informed decisions whilst fatigued.

"It is hoped that through the in-game GPS tracking of NFL officials, we will be able to calculate their body loading, movement, distance covered and levels of fatigue and in turn develop performance standards to improve their fitness, physiological capacity and post-match recovery."