Magic of the FA Cup, National Titles, & Unbeaten Seasons

As we enter the second month of 2025, let’s take a look back at what’s been happening over the last few months for PlayerData teams and athletes across the globe.

The Magic of the FA Cup

Starting in the UK, the most-watched domestic cup competition on earth, the Emirates FA Cup has been in full gear. One of the first great sporting competitions in the UK, the FA Cup provides a unique set-up providing teams across divisions an opportunity to go toe-to-toe with glory on the line. This year, only two non-league teams advanced to the third round of the FA Cup: Tamworth and Dagenham & Redbridge. At PlayerData, we loved being along for the ride as both clubs are proud members of the PlayerData community. Tamworth’s run saw them eventually welcome Premier League Tottenham Hotspur to The Lamb Ground. Meanwhile, Dagenham & Redbridge advanced to the 3rd round against Championship opposition Millwall. This was a significant accomplishment, as?both clubs held their own against teams significantly higher in the UK football pyramid.

National Champs

In NCAA soccer, PlayerData was on the field for two national titles this season. First, UNC added to its legacy as one of the most storied programs in college sports history claiming its 23rd national title (the most of any women’s soccer program in NCAA history) in dramatic fashion. This title run was particularly remarkable considering the team saw 21 players turn over from the previous season, and the club was led by then interim head coach Damon Nahas. Beyond the title, UNC also had three players selected as All-Americans.

If you want to learn more about how we support the women’s soccer powerhouse, click here.

Additionally, at the NCAA Division II level, PlayerData client Cal Poly Pomona claimed their first ever women’s soccer national title. From dominating the regular season and their conference tournament to an unforgettable postseason run, this team showcased unmatched grit and determination. Their 2-1 victory over Minnesota State in the final was the perfect ending to a storybook season.

Philadelphia Union: From Academy to the Pros

While PlayerData initially started across pitches in the UK, at the end of 2023 we landed our first US based customer: the Philadelphia Union. The Philly Union chose us as the performance tracking technology in their academy program. They’ve since loved the tech so much, they decided to roll it out across multiple teams — including their top team in the MLS.

Lake Oswego Go 10-0 in their Regular Season

Lake Oswego achieved a 2024 season to remember, going 10-0 in their regular season. Mike McLaughlin, the High School’s Strength and Conditioning Coach, had this to say about how PlayerData were an integral part of their success:

“We started using PlayerData this year with our football team. By seeing how much work the athletes were undertaking in practice and games, it allowed our performance staff and coaches to enhance intensity and practice schedules. This gave our athletes a greater opportunity to reach game day at a higher readiness level. The information provided will also give a clearer picture for offseason physical preparation. PlayerData provides a clear picture for proactive decision making to get our athletes ready for the demands of our game”

If you are interested in learning more about how PlayerData can meet the needs of your club or program, please click here.