A coach in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has revealed her use of ChatGPT to inform her team’s tactical approach. Laura Harvey, head coach of Seattle Reign, stated that she engaged with the AI chatbot to explore strategies and formations for her team.
In an interview with the Soccerish podcast, Harvey described a specific instance during the off-season when she sought advice from ChatGPT. She entered inquiries such as, “What is Seattle Reign’s identity?” and received responses that prompted further reflection. “And I was like, ‘I don’t know if that’s true or not,’” she recounted.
When she asked the AI for formation recommendations to counter NWSL opponents, Harvey was impressed by the level of detail provided. The chatbot suggested a back five strategy against certain teams, which she subsequently implemented in a match against Orlando Pride in April, although the game concluded with a 1-0 loss for Seattle.
Revitalizing Team Performance
Despite the defeat, Harvey’s decision to adopt AI-driven tactics reflects her proactive approach in a competitive league. Seattle Reign had struggled in the previous season, finishing second from bottom, but has shown significant improvement this year. The team concluded the regular season in fourth place, securing a spot in the playoffs.
Harvey, an experienced coach who previously led Arsenal to success in the Women’s Super League in 2011, including the title, FA Cup, and Continental Cup, has returned to Seattle for her second stint. After moving to the United States in 2013, she has since made a notable impact on the women’s game.
While the specific matches in which Harvey employed ChatGPT-inspired tactics remain unclear, her willingness to integrate technology into her coaching strategy illustrates a growing trend in sports. Coaches and teams increasingly leverage data and technology to enhance performance and decision-making.
This innovative approach may not only influence game strategies but also reflects a broader embrace of AI in sports, opening up new avenues for training and competition. As the NWSL continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness, Harvey’s adaptation of AI tools could become a defining feature of coaching in the league.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the Seattle Reign will look to build on their recent successes, potentially utilizing both traditional methods and modern technology to advance further in the tournament.
