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In an effort to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each team, SportsFive has created a graphic representation for each team in each of six different areas.
The “flower” will be shown for each team in the upper right hand corner of each specific team article. Separate ranks are given for Midfield, Attack, Defense, Goal, Seniors and Depth. Five rankings are given for each area; moving from dark blue to yellow to dark green.
Along with the “flower” will be key statistics from previous season. The final record is displayed along with the team’s offensive and defensive position. Team offense is based on the average number of goals scored per game. The defensive position is based on the average goals scored against the team. All of these statistics are based on all games played during the regular season (pre-tournament).
The dark blue ranking represents problems. A lighter blue color indicates that the team is weak in that area, but all is not lost. Yellow is used to demonstrate a middle of the road score. A light green demonstrates that while the team has some strength in the area they do have significant strength. Dark green is a demonstration of absolute strength in an area. A ranking of dark green indicates that the team has a significant advantage in that area.
It is important to understand that the color ranking is based on play within the league or expected opponents. A light green rank for Fairport is based on their expected play against in primary opponents. It should not be compared to a light green score for Batavia who is compared to MC-3 teams. Strength and weakness, can only be compared within the same division.
The data that was used to compile these scores comes greatly from last year’s stats, sectional performance, All-League lists, as well as observations made throughout the season. To a lesser extent, reports from the Head Coaches as well as general “talk” around the section were used in the rankings.
Three player categories (midfield, attack, defense) each use the same method in for determining the rank of a specific team. The numbers of players returning in the position, as well as relative skill of those players are key factors in the evaluation. One powerhouse game changing player can be equivalent to a number of middle of the road players. Each position and each team has been weighed separately and then viewed in comparison with their division play.
Although goalies were ranked in a similar fashion, the fact that, for most teams, only one goalie plays most of the game, the depth of the position is less important. Having a strong experienced goalie is a lot different then have 3 goalies, all of which are new to varsity.
The “Depth” and “Seniors” categories are more difficult to define. SportsFive identified strong returning players in each position and then looked for the number of players who might compliment that player. We also looked at the impact of losing that “star” to injury.
Seniors were defined both by number as well as by skill. A high number of seniors could yield a green ranking but a small number of skilled seniors might rate a green score as well. A dark green ranking comes with the combination of the two. While, a blue rating might represent a small numbers of seniors, it might also occur on a team lacking many skilled seniors. A dark blue ranking comes with a small number of non-star seniors.
Our intent with this graphic is to allow a quick look at what may become the issues at the start of the season. It is hoped that it’s use will make it easier to understand how the teams within a division stack up.
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