Ep. 1 - “Supply Chain Managing Human Performance”
with Darcy Norman - Chicago Fire FC
Summary
In this conversation, Michael Pruchniewski interviews Darcy Norman, a seasoned professional in human performance and data management in sports. They explore Darcy's journey from a small town in Canada to working with elite teams and athletes, emphasizing the importance of data in optimizing performance. The discussion delves into the integration of supply chain management principles into sports, the evolution of data usage, and the significance of communication and teamwork in achieving success. Darcy shares practical applications of these concepts and offers valuable advice for data professionals in the sports industry and beyond.
Darcy’s book and song recommendations:
Peter Senge’s “The Fifth Discipline”
Peter Fox “Alles Neu”
Top Insights
Background and Journey - Darcy Norman's journey from a small town in Northern Alberta to working with top sports teams like Bayern Munich and the German National Team highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and building strong networks.
Supply Chain Management in Sports - The concept of applying supply chain management principles to human performance emerged during Darcy's time with the German National Team, emphasizing the importance of structured systems in achieving optimal outcomes.
Data Evolution in Sports - Darcy's experience underscores the evolution of data in sports, from basic tools like Excel to advanced systems involving GPS and machine learning, transforming how teams operate.
Balancing Data and Execution - While data is crucial, Darcy cautions against getting lost in it, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes planning and execution to achieve desired outcomes.
Complex Systems and Culture - Understanding the interactions between different components within a team or organization is key, as highlighted by Darcy's reference to "The Fifth Discipline" by Peter Senge.
Sustainability and Scalability - Darcy emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable, repeatable, and scalable solutions in sports and business, rather than focusing on niche one-offs.
Personal Insights - Darcy shares personal insights, including his love for mountain wilderness areas like Whistler and Bavaria, and his appreciation for home-cooked meals like pierogies and kubasa.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Episode 1 with Darcy Norman
02:45 Darcy Norman's Journey in Sports and Data
05:15 The Evolution of Data in Sports
08:14 Darcy's Approach as a ‘Data Guy’
10:53 Integrating Data and Performance Management
13:47 Supply Chain Managing Human Performance
16:52 Communication and Team Dynamics in Performance
18:04 Examples of Supply Chain Managing Human Performance
25:13 Advice for Data Professionals in General
27:17 "Behind the Data"