Not All Running Fast is Equal

High Speed Running (HSR) occurs when you're running between 5.5 m/s (12.3 mph) and 7 m/s (15.7 mph) -- think of those lung-busting runs tracking back to help defensively. Sprinting kicks in when you exceed 7 m/s (15.7 mph), pushing near your max speed -- think of those explosive bursts to beat a defender.

Have you ever wondered how much ground you cover in a game? How much of it is high-speed running or sprinting? The numbers might surprise you. According to Football Observatory, professional soccer players cover significant distances at high-intensity speeds, on average, during a 90-minute match:

Outside/Wing Backs: 814 meters at high-speed running (HSR) and 191 meters at a full sprint.

Center Backs: 485 meters at HSR and 96 meters sprinting.

Center Midfielders: 719 meters at HSR and 141 meters sprinting.

Wingers: 923 meters at HSR and 211 meters sprinting.

Center Forwards: 847 meters at HSR and 191 meters sprinting.

But what about high school players? More specifically—what about John Jay High School players?

To answer this question, and attempt to elevate our program, John Jay Soccer is implementing the use of STATSports Apex GPS trackers for all Varsity players starting Summer and Fall 2025, as previously announced. These performance monitors will provide data on distance covered, high-speed running (HSR), sprinting efforts, work rate, and overall fitness levels.

WHY ARE WE IMPLEMENTING GPS TRACKERS?

By collecting performance data, we can analyze and improve key aspects of our game:

• How much ground are our players covering?

• How much of it is high-speed running or sprinting?

• How can we optimize fitness and efficiency?

By tracking these metrics, we can set measurable goals, adjust training, and maximize player development and, ultimately, team success. These trackers will be used in all matches and most training sessions during the Fall 2025 season, and moving forward.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• The hope and goal is that all Varsity players will purchase and have their own STATSports Apex GPS Tracker, as we feel it will be incredibly useful and beneficial, not only for John Jay Soccer, but also for club team training and play.

• For families with financial constraints, a limited number of loaner trackers will be available for Fall 2025. If you need assistance, please reach out to Coach Seipp or Coach Horton as soon as possible.

• These trackers are a long-term investment in player performance, providing valuable insights year after year.

This initiative is about trying to elevate our program to the next level and preparing our athletes for the highest level of competition. We’re excited to bring pro-level performance tracking to John Jay Soccer.

For more information on purchasing a tracker or requesting a loaner, contact Coach Seipp or Coach Horton.