My Job in Munster: George Murray Head Performance Analyst
Ronan O'Gara, Munster, kicks for touch during the 2006 Heineken Cup Final between Munster and Biarritz Olympique. Picture credit; Brendan Moran / SPORTSFILE
A native of Bray in Co. Wicklow, George has worked in the performance analysis field for over 15 years. He started out as a coach in Presentation College and St Gerard's schools in Bray, and then joined the rugby development office in Leinster to continue his coaching and help develop technical support in this area. George enjoys playing soccer and golf and resides in Limerick with his wife Lorraine and his two children, Anna Mai and George.
When did you join Munster?
In June 2002 the opportunity arose to join Munster as a video analyst to the squad - this was a newly created position and a first for Munster Rugby.
What do you do?
I head up the Performance Analysis Department, which caters to servicing the whole squad, players and staff in all aspects of performance analysis needs. My philosophy towards performance analysis is to take the approach that identifying trends and providing accurate data and visual information will provide the necessary tools to make better decisions. Our goal is to provide accurate information in whatever form in order to increase our win potential. I collate video footage from all sources and codes using Sportscode software. This is then databased into accessible files. Opposition scouting, player and team performance evaluations, recruitment and retention reports are some of the areas covered as well as capturing all training and rugby-related content.
What is the best part of your job?
Seeing our work have an influence on winning rugby matches for Munster.
Most memorable match?
2006 Heineken Cup final, you just can't beat that first feeing.
