Translating Coach Language to Data Filters

Coaches describe what they want in players using qualitative language — positional labels, clichés, and style descriptors that vary by language and tactical tradition. Translating these descriptions into measurable data filters is a core analyst skill. "Presses aggressively" becomes pressure regains + tackle rate. "Creates for teammates" becomes progressive pass completions + xGA (expected goals assisted). "Good on the ball under pressure" becomes completion above expected under pressure. The translation is lossy — always validate back with the coach.

The interview process: (1) ask the coach to name specific players who exemplify what they want; (2) ask what they love about those players; (3) map each answer to measurable data fields. Don't accept clichés as final answers — probe until you get something observable. Note: positional terminology varies by system and language. A "6" in one system is not a "6" in another. Always clarify role within the system, not just the number.

1. Accepting clichés as specifications: "Works hard" and "presses aggressively" are not specifications until they're attached to measurable behaviors.
2. Over-indexing on one metric: Most qualitative descriptions decompose into 2-4 metrics in combination, not one.
3. Skipping validation: Always confirm the translation by checking archetype players against the resulting profile.