Soccer-specific accuracy and validity of the local position measurement (LPM) system

Limited data is available on accuracy and validity of video-based, GPS and electronic tracking systems, particularly with reference to curved courses and short high intensity running activities. The main goal of this study was to assess soccer-specific accuracy and validity of the radio-frequency based local position measurement (LPM) system (1000 Hz) for measuring distance and speed during walking and sprinting. Three males walked and sprinted 4 soccer-specific courses 10 times each. Distance and speed recorded by LPM were compared to actual distance and speed measured by measuring tape and timing gates. In addition, accuracy was assessed. The static accuracy (SD of the mean) is 1 cm for devices put on the pitch and 2-3 cm when worn by participants. LPM underestimates actual distance (mean difference at most −1.6%). Coefficient of variation becomes larger at higher speed and increased turning angle. With regard to speed, validity correlations are high (range: 0.71-0.97). The LPM speed is significantly and systematically lower, although absolute and relative differences are small, between −0.1 km h−1 (−1.3%) and −0.6 km h−1 (−3.9%). The typical error of the estimate increases with increased speed, but does not increase with increased turning angle. Because the reported differences are small, we conclude that the LPM-system produces highly accurate position and speed data in static and dynamic conditions and is a valid tool for player tracking in soccer and ball team sports in general.