What goes through a coach's mind when deciding if an injured player should compete in a high-stakes game? Join us as we explore this critical question with Darren Burgess and Jason Weber, delving into real-life examples like Callum Mills' fitness dilemma and historical cases involving Phil Davis and Stephen May. We'll discuss the fine line between player readiness and long-term health, drawing from our own experiences with grand final fitness tests and the constantly changing weather conditions in Western Australia. Plus, we'll give you an inside look at the excitement surrounding major sporting events like the AFL grand final and the Rugby League preliminary final.Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when a top-tier physio leaves for a rival team? Hear about the challenges we face in recruiting and managing sports physiotherapy talent, featuring the departure of Tim Parham. We also tackle the cultural differences in injury management across the globe, from Italy and Spain to the UK and Brazil. Listen as we share surprising stories, like Lucas Leiva's rapid ACL recovery at Grêmio and the varying effectiveness of Creatine Kinase (CK) assessments. This episode is packed with insights on adaptability, context, and the complexities of athlete care and performance.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Can you imagine a world where managing player fatigue could significantly reduce injuries in professional sports? Today, we're tackling this critical issue head-on with insights from Darren Burgess and Jason Webber. We'll start by dissecting the AFL's off-season buzz, including player trades and how the Adelaide Crows are handling the tumultuous "silly season." Then, we shift gears to the NFL, scrutinizing the early rounds marred by lackluster performances due to limited preseason play. Adam Thielen's suspected proximal hamstring tendon injury serves as a case study, shedding light on the causes and complexities of preventing such injuries in high-stakes sports environments.How do overloaded match calendars and player fatigue contribute to injuries, and could these factors be more formally acknowledged in sports science? Using Manchester City's Rodri as an example, we explore the blurred lines between acute and non-contact injuries and the role of coaching in managing these risks. We delve into the intricacies of differentiating between preparation failures and inevitable injuries, emphasizing the balance needed between performance data and coaching decisions. This discussion isn't just hypothetical; it's a call to recognize and address the impact of an ever-demanding sports schedule on player health.Lastly, we explore the cutting-edge methodologies behind monitoring and preventing athlete fatigue and injuries. The importance of combining physical metrics with behavioral observations cannot be overstated, and we illustrate this with a hypothetical scenario involving AFL player Callum Mills. Objective auditing processes and reliable data are crucial for making informed decisions about player welfare. We also discuss the essential role of open communication between coaches and players, highlighting the continuous evolution needed to enhance player health and performance. Join us for this enlightening episode as we bridge the gap between sports science and practical application in the world of professional sports.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered what goes into a detailed post-season review for an AFL team? This episode provides an inside look at the Adelaide Crows' meticulous three-week evaluation process, comparing it to how other leagues, like the EPL, manage transitions. We'll take you through the thorough job interview process for key positions at the Crows, including the head of sports science role that Alec Buttfield secured due to his outstanding credentials. The discussion also touches on the value of internal promotions and the unique opportunities that niche skills can unlock within prestigious organizations.Moreover, we dive into the realm of mentorship and its critical role in career development within coaching and sports science. Hear about the invaluable lessons learned from legendary mentors like Charlie Francis and Dan Pfaff, and the importance of experienced professionals passing on their wisdom. We also explore the concept of paid mentorships and the necessity of ensuring value in these relationships. Whether you're an aspiring coach or sports scientist, this episode underscores the benefits of formalizing mentorships to propel your career forward and enhance personal dynamics in the industry.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered how to keep your athletes in top shape without pushing them to the brink? Join us as we welcome back Darren on Two Coaches and a Coffee, where we unpack the significance of maintaining an average speed of 80 meters per minute during training sessions. You'll discover the origins of this metric and its practical applications in sports like AFL and soccer, gaining insights into how it helps build aerobic capacity. We also discuss the delicate balance between drill intensity and session goals, and why it's okay if not every session hits that magic number. Get ready for a comprehensive guide on making strategic adjustments to sustain peak fitness levels.Switching gears, we delve into the rigorous schedules of professional EPL players, especially those juggling international duties. Can you imagine playing around 81 games a year? We'll break down the staggering workload and the complexities of managing fitness and conditioning amidst the chaos of domestic and European competitions. Plus, we compare these challenges to those faced by college and NFL teams in the US, who typically have the luxury of playing once a week. Listen in for an in-depth look at the strategic planning and resilience required to keep elite athletes performing at their best.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Can meticulous training strategies really make or break a team’s season? Join me, Jason Webber, as I navigate the fine line between fitness and fatigue in the realm of elite athletics. With Darren Burgess temporarily away, I dive deep into the critical aspects of athlete preparation, particularly as the season reaches its climax. Learn how the science of training impulse can predict and manage fitness gains, and discover why recovery weeks are just as crucial as high-intensity training sessions. By comparing the impacts of training loads across different sports like swimming and football, I share actionable insights gleaned from my experiences with top-tier athletes and teams.Transitioning to the specifics of AFL, the conversation highlights the dangers of excessive practice and the importance of maintaining optimal training volumes. Through a candid recount of a season where heightened training before finals led to a spike in injuries, I underscore the delicate balance required to prevent performance decay and ensure athletes are ready for peak performance. The episode wraps up with a discussion on training specificity and injury prevention, emphasizing the need to balance skill retention with overall athletic capacity. Anticipating Darren’s return, I encourage you to share your thoughts and engage with our community.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

What if your team's late-season surge could be the key to clinching a top spot? This week on Two Coaches and a Coffee, we promise to unravel the secrets behind the Hawthorne Hawks' unexpected rise and explore the crucial tactics that are shaping the AFL's final round. From high-speed sprints to strategic player management, we dig into the game data and decision-making that are keeping fans on the edge of their seats. We'll also shift gears to the EPL, where Manchester City's methodical approach has set the stage for a standout performance by a 19-year-old phenom. Don't miss our in-depth analysis of how top teams balance immediate impact with long-term planning.In the second half, we tackle a complex yet vital topic: balancing risk aversion with performance training. Are teams getting it right with their training loads and strategies? We scrutinize the roles of medical staff and strength and conditioning coaches, diving into the ongoing debate around chronic acute work ratios. Learn how different philosophies shape team performance, with real-world examples from the AFL illustrating the fine line between maintaining player freshness and building fitness. This episode will leave you questioning conventional wisdom and considering new metrics to keep athletes at their peak all season long. Tune in for a compelling blend of data analysis, expert opinions, and practical insights from top-tier sports.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Unlock the secrets of elite athletic performance as we journey through the world of Australian sports. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into the rigorous training regimens that keep athletes at the top of their game. Featuring a captivating conversation with Damien Marsh, head of strength and conditioning for the Wallabies, we compare the grueling demands faced by rugby and rugby league players. Get a firsthand account of the intense local AFL rivalry between Port Adelaide and another local team, as well as the broader challenges teams face as they aim for the finals. Join us as we explore the nuances of conditioning and training specificity essential for athletes across various sports. From the prioritization of repeated power in European teams to the role of tempo work in building aerobic conditioning, our discussion covers it all. Discover how insufficient preseason preparation impacted a US college football team and delve into the concept of "earning the right" in training, especially for younger athletes rising through the ranks. Plus, we share our strategies and hopes for upcoming football matchups against formidable opponents like Port Adelaide and Sydney, aiming to turn the tables and create some unforgettable upsets.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered how top-tier sports teams maintain their edge? Discover the secrets behind cohesive staffing and unified team direction in our latest episode of Two Coaches and a Coffee. We kick off by sharing lessons from our visits to various football and rugby clubs, revealing why money isn't always the key to success. Instead, it's the skilled and context-aware practitioners who make the difference. Listen as we unpack the challenges larger departments face in staying connected and aligned, and how effective leadership can balance individual autonomy with the overall team vision.As we continue, we delve into the complexities of consultancy within the sports industry, shedding light on the importance of supporting staff to maintain a cohesive environment. Learn about the intricacies of hiring for senior roles and the pitfalls of overly layered management structures, particularly in U.S. colleges, which can stifle responsibility and decision-making. We also share exciting developments in facility ownership and the personal challenges of balancing professional responsibilities while on the road. Don't miss our memorable moment with Dave Carroll, and the laughs over a Guinness, as we round off another insightful and engaging conversation.Sponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to staying ahead in sports science and strength conditioning? This episode is your key to understanding the importance of continuous learning and skill development. As I journey through the UK, I reflect on how younger professionals may fall into complacency, risking their growth. Drawing inspiration from legends like Charlie Francis and Derek Hansen, I underline the necessity of blending academic knowledge with practical wisdom. Plus, I highlight the game-changing potential of AI and machine learning in this ever-evolving field.We also dive deep into the realm of personal growth and effective problem-solving. I discuss the critical importance of aligning with company values such as honesty and creativity while emphasizing efficiency and planning. There's a special focus on managing younger talents and how coding can revolutionize time management. Traveling, especially through the challenges of airports, often sparks my most creative thinking. Finally, I explore the art of decision-making—illustrating the importance of taking time to thoroughly think through problems. Despite hosting solo with Darren busy in the AFL, I remain optimistic and grateful for your support. Join me for an enlightening discussion on professional development, personal growth, and making well-considered decisions.Sponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered how top-down leadership can sculpt an environment for elite performance, whether on the field or in the military? Join me, Jason Webber, on One Coach and a Coffee as I recount my recent consulting adventures with a military group and my exciting engagements with multiple football teams, including an upcoming session with Liverpool's women's team. You'll hear about the critical influence of leadership on culture and high standards, drawing fascinating parallels between sports teams and special forces units. This episode is packed with insights on how attention to detail and maintaining high expectations are pivotal for achieving excellence.Career development has drastically evolved since the 1980s. I walk you through this evolution, stressing the importance of continuous learning and goal-setting in high-performance management. We discuss the necessity of mastering specialized fields like medical and nutritional sciences to lead a multidisciplinary team effectively. Moreover, I highlight the vital role of inspiring confidence and showcasing reliability to reduce risk for potential employers. This chapter emphasizes that true ambition must be aligned with proactive steps to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for a successful career in high-performance management.Finally, get inspired by the importance of innovation and clear problem-solving in academic and entrepreneurial pursuits. Learn why young innovators and PhD students should focus on specific, well-defined problems instead of broad topics. I draw compelling parallels between entrepreneurship and research, emphasizing the importance of coding and statistical analysis in tackling complex issues, particularly in military and sports science contexts. Leadership, especially when higher-ups fall short, and the development of essential skills before ascending to leadership positions, is also discussed. Tune in to understand how a proactive and inquisitive approach in sports science can elevate performance and close informational gaps, as demonstrated by my work with SpeedSig.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered how elite athletes manage to stay at peak performance right before the most crucial matches of their careers? Join us on "Two Coaches and a Coffee" as we uncover the secrets behind the English football team's advance to the European finals. We share insights from our personal experiences in the Rugby World Cup 2003 and AFL finals, offering a rich discussion on the balancing act of training intensity and recovery. Discover how strategic planning and mitigating external pressures can make a significant difference in athletes' performance.In this episode, we also delve into the post-tournament phase, a critical time when top players like Harry Kane, Kyle Walker, and Ollie Watkins must be seamlessly reintegrated into their club teams. Learn how clubs walk the tightrope of providing adequate rest while keeping these athletes match-ready. We discuss the importance of individualized approaches and strong communication between clubs and coaches to prevent injuries and ensure player availability throughout the season. To round off the conversation, we explore strategies for effective player management, all while savoring a good coffee.Sponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

What's the secret behind the electrifying performances of Cirque du Soleil's gravity-defying artists? Explore the fascinating world of elite athletic training with us as we focus on Alexei, a young contortionist, and his journey from childhood dedication to mastering incredible body-weight strength. Our conversation bridges this unique artistry to high-demand sports like AFL, emphasizing how athletes manage intense schedules and balance between physical training and skill development.We also tackle the immense physiological demands of professional athletes, with insights drawn from England's recent football matches. Unpack the strategies behind squad rotation, player recovery, and the critical role of load management. Using examples from football, the Tour de France, and AFL, we highlight the necessity of balancing skill and endurance in high-pressure scenarios, illustrated by Jude Bellingham's heroic goal despite obvious fatigue. Discover the tactical intricacies of high possession games and their effects on team performance and stamina.Shifting gears to Rugby Australia, we address the concerning trend of Achilles injuries among top players, particularly props. We'll discuss possible causes like insufficient scrummaging practice and inadequate physical preparation. Learn about the importance of effective training periodization and workload management to keep players match-ready. Finally, get excited about our upcoming AFL trip to Brisbane, significant meetings in the UK, and our innovative SpeedSig project. Plus, hear about our special plans for young Harry, one of our biggest supporters. Don't miss these compelling discussions and updates!SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered how contrasting training methods shape athletes? Join us on Two Coaches and a Coffee as we unpack the secrets behind strength training approaches in sports with exclusive insights from Dave Tenney. In this episode, we compare the unstructured, resilience-building play styles of South American footballers with the precision-focused, structured training models in Australia. Hear firsthand experiences from the MLS and discover how balancing these two methods can create well-rounded, injury-resistant athletes. Uncover the journeys of rising stars like Harley Reid, whose physical prowess at 18 sets him apart, and Matt DeBoer, who transformed from a mediocre athlete to a top performer through hard work and tailored training. We dive into the importance of individualized training plans and how understanding an athlete's background is crucial for effective coaching. From college football to the NFL, we share professional insights and strategies to maximize each athlete's potential. Tune in to explore the cultural adaptations required in coaching and the nuanced blend of skill and physicality needed across different sports.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered how the Boston Celtics maintain their dominance on the court? Uncover the secrets behind their success as we dissect how Coach Coles and performance expert Jace Delaney have crafted a system rooted in consistency and process. Drawing insightful parallels with the Sydney Swans in the AFL, we explore why stability triumphs over constant upheaval in coaching. Our discussion highlights how establishing sustainable systems is key to long-term victory, avoiding the pitfalls of frequent overhauls that can cripple team performance.We then transition into the fascinating world of sports science, guided by insights from Simon Harries, head of strength and conditioning at the New South Wales Institute of Sport. Learn the crucial distinctions between lag and lead indicators, and how tools like Vicon testing and heart rate variability (HRV) can forecast athletic performance. Finally, we delve into the art of recruitment, sharing real-world stories like the rise of Dan Zaknich at the Western Bulldogs. Discover how blending skill assessment with character evaluation leads to hiring triumphs and avoidable missteps. This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding the mechanics of sports success and effective team building.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

What happens when the high-performance manager of an AFL team faces the relentless pressures of a turbulent season? Join us on this gripping episode of Two Coaches and a Coffee as we sit down with Darren Burgess from Adelaide Crows. Darren, with his wealth of experience from top EPL clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal, opens up about navigating the stressful landscape of media scrutiny, critical injuries, and the departure of key staff members. He shares his strategies for maintaining team morale, celebrating small victories, and ensuring that stress doesn’t trickle down to the players. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience and leadership under fire.In another engaging segment, we dive into the art of communication within leadership roles. Darren reflects on the challenges of approaching a head coach who might be deviating from established processes, especially during crucial points in the season. Drawing from his own journey, including taking an uncomfortable conversations course, Darren highlights the importance of empathy, timely feedback, and understanding the coach’s perspective. We also discuss the critical role of experienced professionals in conducting meaningful internal and external reviews. Tune in for an episode brimming with insights on improving communication, providing support under pressure, and the nuances of sports management.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Ever wondered who holds the key to a successful athlete's comeback from injury? Join us as we bring Darren Burgess and Jason Weber to the table to dissect this pressing question. You'll learn why they believe the ultimate rehab experts are those who blend medical acumen with strength and conditioning prowess. From amusing anecdotes to a deep dive into running mechanics, this episode promises a holistic view on getting athletes back on their feet—literally and figuratively.But that’s not all. We shift gears to explore the significance of experienced leaders in shaping the next generation of sports professionals. Darren and Jason draw from their extensive careers to discuss the delicate balance between hiring fresh talent and seasoned veterans, all while navigating budget constraints and diverse club cultures. Hear their candid reflections on how long-standing roles versus varied gigs have influenced their leadership paths. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the intersection of sports rehabilitation and leadership development.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Is sports science keeping pace with the evolving demands of modern football?  With Darren Burgess in the UK, Jason Weber flies solo to explore how sports science must continuously adapt to the game's changing nature. This episode bridges conversations from the EPL, AFL, and NFL, offering a comprehensive look at how different seasons and leagues impact gameplay and injury rates.Jason also shares his latest research on analyzing opposition work rates in the AFL, emphasizing the importance of understanding patterns and preparing effectively for upcoming seasons (check out the paper https://www.mdpi.com/2673-2688/5/2/38). Reflecting on the tactical shifts in rugby union and football, this episode underscores the critical role of sports science in modern sports. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that provides valuable insights into how teams can better navigate the complex dynamics of their sports environments.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Could shortening AFL games be the key to reducing player injuries? Tune in as Darren and I dissect the current AFL injury epidemic, weighing the merits of a controversial proposal to decrease game time. Amid the intense physical demands akin to those in NFL, we examine the surge in load-related injuries and concussions, and the potential impact of shorter games. Pivotal to our debate is the conundrum performance coaches face juggling athlete well-being and public judgement, illustrated by a player's recent facial fracture that has sparked widespread conversations about the complex nature of professional sports injury management.As the discussion shifts gears, we cast a critical eye on the intersection of athletic prowess and physical fitness, using NFL's Patrick Mahomes as a case study. Debates swirl around his off-season condition - but how much does body weight truly sway a top athlete’s performance? This episode peels back the layers on player fitness, the relentless cycle of the English Premier League's off-season, and the underappreciated strategy of integrating players into team training early. Whether it's jumping into warm-ups or navigating training alongside disciplinary measures, we lay bare the essentials of fostering team unity and upholding a positive dynamic. Join us for an episode packed with expertise and insight that promises to elevate your understanding of sports performance and athlete management.Sponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Sipping a gin from Western Australia, I couldn't help but think of the glamor versus the reality of work travel, a theme that surfaces throughout our chat. Co-host Darren Burgess joins me, fresh from a Singaporean encounter, to dissect both the visible and behind-the-scenes intricacies of sports—ranging from player performance to the holistic methods shaping modern sports medicine. As we unpack the delicate matter of Connor Rozee's hamstring injury and the subsequent decisions made by Port Adelaide's leadership, we traverse the complexities of responsibility in professional sports and the media's unwavering gaze that often intensifies the situation.Technology's advance into the domain of sports is ushering in an era where data is king, but who does this kingdom belong to? In this riveting session, we explore how innovations like SpeedSig are changing the game for player evaluations and contract talks, illustrated by Kevin De Bruyne's strategic use of his own metrics. We stand firm on the belief that athletes should retain ownership over their data, all while dissecting the layers of international privacy laws and advocating for a more nuanced approach to predictive analysis. The conversation promises to evolve, with untapped topics on the horizon and the unwavering spirit of our discussions extending beyond an empty gin glass. Join us next time as Darren and I continue to blend insight with a dash of humor, serving up a thoughtful conversation that's as refreshing as the gin we started with.SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com

Can shunning the weight room actually shield athletes from injury, or does it rob them of peak performance? Newcastle's Anthony Gordon seems to think so, but this episode digs deeper into the complex world of strength training in professional sports. We tackle the debate head-on, contrasting Gordon's weightlifting aversion with insights from industry giants like Chelsea's former manager, who champion a more natural approach to fitness. Expect a rigorous examination of strength training's role in developing sport-specific force, muscle mass, and its implications for both enhancing performance and preventing injuries.Today's discussion isn't just about pumping iron; it's about understanding the art and science behind training and injury management. We highlight the intriguing concept of the 'minimum effective dose' with a case study of a rugby player's strength maintenance. Delving into the research of JB Morin, we debunk myths around lifting weights and speed enhancement, and analyze an AFL player's expedited comeback from a hamstring injury, underscoring the precision required in tailoring training programs to each athlete's physiological response.Cheers to knowledge, community, and the endless pursuit of athletic excellence!SpeedSig IntroSponsored by SPEEDSIG.com