A heat map is an analysis tool that helps to provide a graphical representation of Sports data. Until somewhat recently, collecting and analysing Sports data was a very difficult task. Heat maps are one of the analytical tools used in many games like Football, Rugby, Hockey, Ice-hockey, Basketball, etc. In Football, heat maps are used as an indicator of the scope and frequency of a player’s movement, helping the sports analysts to identify playing conditions and in-game situations of players. Thus, helping in collecting and analysing valuable Sports data. In the past, heat maps were drawn manually by marking, at a certain time interval, a player’s position and integrating the marks. These days, however, computers draw heat maps thanks to the advancement in technology. On a heat map, a player’s movement is represented by different colours and depths. The colour gets darker in areas where a player’s presence increases. The time interval of a heat map’s data collection can be altered as desired. In a shorter interval, more data gets collected, which increases accuracy but also increases the calculating time. On the contrary, for a longer interval, there exists less accuracy but less calculating time is needed for that. Based on a heat map produced in real-time, a manager/coach can see whether a player is moving according to the pre-planned strategy or can decide who to replace by considering each player’s amount of activity. Heat maps can also be used to monitor the efficiency of players in certain positions and then decide the place that could offer the best possible results for the team.

But sadly, this heat-mapping feature requires the installation of expensive equipment and services of quality analysts.This would restrict the young talents in small town schools in attaining the same level of potential which they desire especially in context to the India. However, there is still a glimmer of hope as sports-tech start-ups like IndiFoot are coming up with more affordable and easier to use product. Footrax , a wearable performance tracking and analysis device which enables future Sportsmen to live their dream and contribute in making India a Sporting nation.