Beyond speed bands: Connecting GPS data to match events

Performance analysis in rugby union has evolved considerably, but significant gaps remain in how practitioners interpret and apply physical performance data. While GPS technology is ubiquitous, current approaches often fail to capture the contextual complexities that define match demands. Recent reviews and discussions highlight that the utility of the insights from GPS data has not kept pace with the volume or refinement of the data itself. The consequences extend beyond theoretical concerns. Practitioners might be making training decisions based on decontextualized data that may inadequately...