Applied Sport Science Technology Role
Program Component
Applied Sport Science Technology Role
Term
Fall 2026 – Winter 2027
Applied Sport Science Technology
HPSSC developed this component of the Athlete Innovation Initiative to place students with U-M Athletics teams to learn and execute best practices for the following:
- data collection,
- event classification, and
- device distribution and management using digital technology such as Catapult sensors, or other relevant tools.
This component provides students opportunity to support both team practices and events as deemed appropriate by HPSSC and Athletic Department staff, while learning about and staying compliant with all NCAA and Big 10 rules and regulations. Educational focus of this initiative’s component is on rigorous daily collection of data through wearable technology devices, film study, or manual data collection tools.
U-M HPSSC Applied Sport Science Technology Assistant Role
The HPSSC recruits undergraduate or master’s level students for this role. The role, overseen by HPSSC faculty and staff and U-M Athletics, provides an initial exposure to wearable sensors in the context of high performance sport at one of the world’s leading institutions for research, education, service, and athletics.
With this student role, HPSSC acknowledges that wearable sensor technology is one of the fastest growing fields in the world, and there is a growing demand for professionals in this area. Students in this position of Applied Sport Science Technology Assistant will be placed with U-M Athletics teams to learn and execute best practices for:
-
-
- data collection,
- event classification, and
- device distribution and management using digital technology and other relevant tools.
-
HPSSC will be supporting students in this role alongside others to be implemented as part of a cohort that will meet regularly in a unique collaborative environment.
Participants will consult with Athletic Department stakeholders to gain knowledge of the expectations and demands related to athlete performance in practice and competitions as well as the coordination of team professional staff to promote athlete health and well-being.
What our student Technology Assistants are saying, Fall 2025:
“My favorite aspects are being able to get hands on experience with Catapult wearable devices and the data that they collect. Also, I love being able to work closely with the actual team itself and see the data being tracked in real life to help the athletes directly. Another thing that I enjoy is learning new skills working through the data process and being able to apply what I have learned in class as well to the real world situation with the (team).”
“I have really enjoyed my time working with the (team) this semester! Prior to this experience, I had never worked with Catapult before, and it has been a huge learning experience. I like that everything has been hands-on and the new technological skills I’ve gained so far. I had never realized how expansive the field of sport analytics is before having this experience, and I feel like I learn something new every time I go to field hockey practice. I enjoy the connections that I have formed with the head athletic trainer and student athletic trainer of the (team,) as well as with the other technology assistants. With my efforts towards data collection, I believe I have made a positive impact on the team, and I am excited to see how I can continue to help Michigan Athletics as an Applied Sport Science Technology Assistant if given the opportunity!”
U-M Position Details
Start Date: August 31, 2026; may have opportunity to begin training in April or late July 2026 with current Applied Sport Science Technology Assistants
Location: May vary; depends on team practice field within University of Michigan Athletics, i.e., South Performance Center, Crisler Center, Keen Arena, Ocker Field, and more.
Position Type and Information: Volunteer or for credit roles for fall 2026; opportunity to extend to winter 2027.
*Note: For credit requires students, if selected for the role, to obtain approval through their school/college advisor and process for an independent study or internship. Project scope is determined by HPSSC faculty and staff.
Hours: Irregular, including early mornings or evenings, weekends and holidays as dictated by athletic team practice and home game schedules.
Time Commitment: Approximately, 10 – 12 hours in person per week in person, spread over 3-4 days in at least 3-4 hour time blocks supporting team practice sessions. Home game support may be expected in addition to these hours.
Below is an example of the tentative variety in team practice schedules.
Potential practice session schedule days and times for fall 2026; approximation
- Practice Sessions – In person; expected to support the team practices as scheduled 3 to 4 days per week; approximately 10-12 hours per week
- Example of tentative team schedules
- Mondays through Fridays, 2 pm or 3 pm to as late as 6 pm or 4:30 pm to as late as 9 pm
- Saturdays, 12 pm to 3 pm; 9 am to 11 am; or 8 am to 10 am
- Home games – Schedules TBD
Key Responsibilities of the Position:
- Assist with deployment/setup of wearable technology (e.g., GPS trackers, heart rate monitors) for student athletes.
- Monitor and maintain wearable devices for function and data accuracy.
- Collect and organize data from wearable devices.
- Provide technical support/troubleshooting for both athletes and staff.
- Collaborate with athletic trainers, coaches, and HPSSC faculty/staff to support ongoing projects and studies.
- Maintain inventory of wearable technology equipment and supplies.
- Assist with preparation of reports and presentations based on device data.
- Attend mandatory training sessions.
- Attend require monthly workshop sessions.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled as a U-M Ann Arbor undergraduate or master level student
- Strong interest in sports science, technology, or related fields
- Basic knowledge of wearable technology is preferred, not required
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Strong time management, reliable attendance
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Willingness and ability to attend practices and competitions as scheduled
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Preferred Skills
- Experience with technical support or troubleshooting
- Background in sports or physical education.
- Familiarity with athletic training or sports performance metrics
2026-2027
Thank you for your interest. We have concluded our recruitment and selection process for fall term 2026.
Check back mid- to late fall term ’26 for updates regarding winter term 2027.
Questions about the HPSSC Athlete Innovation Initiative?
For further inquiries, email [email protected].