In The Zone: Toronto FC Using New System To Breakdown Games

Toronto FC Will Use New ProZone System  To Track Player Movement

MLS Toronto FC have become the league's first team to employ the computerized ProZone system, which uses eight "strategically placed cameras at BMO Field and sophisticated computer technology [to] track all 22 players and their every movement on the field," according to Peter Mallett of the GLOBE & MAIL. The technology was first used by English Premier League clubs and "combines video replay and computer animation to show players their strengths and weakness." A computer screen in Toronto FC's locker room gives the team "a complete tactical and statistical breakdown of each game they play." Also, following games a DVD copy of all the cameras "is sent to the company headquarters in England and within two days coaching staff and players have a detailed breakdown of every aspect of the past game." Toronto FC coach John Carver: "It's a little bit like George Orwell's '1984' and Big Brother -- but a positive application of technology." Mallett notes the other 13 MLS teams and the U.S. national soccer teams are "expected to be on board soon" (GLOBE & MAIL, 6/20). The system costs "roughly $60,000 to install" (TORONTO STAR, 6/20).