An Exploration of Team Sport as a Dynamical System

At the heart of this paper is the concept of open (complex) systems; a theory which seeks to explain how regularity emerges from within a system that consists of many degrees of freedom in constant flux. Theoretically dynamic patterns are founded on, and greatly inspired by the pioneering work of Hermann Haken, who introduced the concept of non-equilibrium phase transitions within natural patterns (Haken, 1983). At the heart of this theory is how patterns are formed in complex systems with small changes to the system prompting large (nonlinear) changes in the system. Kelso, Turvey and colleagues have been instrumental in applying these types of theory to the experimental analysis of perception and action (for a review, see Kelso, 1995). In these patterns, contents aren’t contained but are revealed by the systems dynamics. Understanding of these theories within sports behaviour has opened up an entirely new research avenue, including synergies, cooperation, and control and order parameters.The current paper discusses and reviews the application of dynamical systems theory within performance analysis of soccer, before beginning to apply this knowledge within the development of a new framework. Data are presented as team profiles composed of perturbations, territory, possession and momentum data from English League Football. It is hypothesized that application of similar strategies on differing scales may enable researchers to efficiently spot the periods of play which are critical to success, therefore negating the pitfalls of traditional notation research. These concepts may also enable players and coaches to understand the components of ‘game control’ and therefore improve the standards of their game through feedback, tactical interventions, player and coach psychology and pattern prediction.