Kyle Yates
Bachelor of Sport, Exercise and Health
Major: Sport Leadership and Management
A lineout that works at training doesn’t always hold up on game day. Over 350 hours of workplace experience with Counties Manukau Rugby, Kyle Yates tracked how well it carried over, filming and analysing lineouts for the Heat and Steelers.
My workplace experience
Placement organisation:
Counties Manukau Rugby
Role:
Sport Analyst
Length of placement:
350 hours
What I worked on
During my placement, I worked as a sport analyst with the Counties Manukau Heat and Steelers. My main project focused on analysing the transfer of lineout performance from training into games. I filmed training sessions and matches, uploaded footage to Hudl, and used Sportscode to code lineouts and analyse team performance.
I also created video clips for coaches, highlighting positive and negative performances and areas for improvement. I attended away games, helped with match day preparation, and worked alongside coaches, players and other analysts. This gave me a good understanding of what happens behind the scenes in a professional rugby environment.
Skills I used (and grew)
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Data analysis
- Digital tools
- Teamwork
- Time management
How AUT prepared me
My studies at AUT gave me a good foundation in sport performance, research and data analysis. Through my courses, I developed an understanding of how to collect and interpret information, analyse sporting performance and communicate findings. These skills helped me apply what I had learnt in class to a real rugby environment.
*Kyle studied the Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management, which has now been replaced by the Bachelor of Sport, Exercise and Health in Sport Leadership and Management.
What I learned
I learned that being a sport analyst is about more than just collecting statistics. It’s important to understand what the coaches and players need and provide information that can help improve performance. I also developed my communication, teamwork and time management skills and became more confident working independently in a professional sporting environment.
My tip for other students
My advice would be to take every opportunity you get and be willing to learn. Don't be afraid to ask questions, put your hand up to help and get involved in different tasks. Building relationships with people in the industry is also important. The more effort you put into your placement, the more you will get out of it. It’s a great opportunity to gain real experience, develop your skills and make connections for your future career.