DashTag

DashTag is a sports technology firm specializing in performance analytics for the amateur soccer market. Founded in the Netherlands in 2015 by Epco Berger, Cliff de Roode, and Dirk van den Berg, the company originated from the idea of digitizing the performance tracking methods used by local coaches. The founders aimed to bridge the gap between professional-grade data analytics and the amateur player, focusing on making performance metrics engaging and accessible.

The company's core offering is the 'Dash,' a small, waterproof, clip-on wearable sensor that attaches to a player's shorts. This device employs an accelerometer and proprietary algorithms to track key physical performance data, with a strong emphasis on sprint-based metrics. The captured data includes the number of low, medium, and high-intensity sprints, top speed, acceleration, total distance, and stamina indicators. Information is then wirelessly synced via Bluetooth Low Energy to a companion mobile application. DashTag's business model involves the sale of this hardware, coupled with a subscription service for access to advanced features like personalized coaching and adaptable exercises.

A distinguishing feature of DashTag's approach is the translation of raw physical data into easily understandable, gamified statistics. The application presents metrics such as 'Pace,' 'Power,' and 'Endurance' on a 0-99 scale, deliberately mirroring the popular FIFA video game series to resonate with its target demographic of young, ambitious players. The app also provides a minute-by-minute timeline of a session's intensity and highlights key performance moments. This data empowers individual players to monitor their physical development, while also serving as a tool for coaches to tailor training and for players to build a verifiable profile for scouting and college recruitment.

Initially based in Eindhoven and later expanding to Rotterdam and San Francisco, DashTag secured approximately $2.3 million in total funding through several seed and crowdfunding rounds from investors including Startupbootcamp, HighTechXL, and various angel investors. The firm was reported as acquired in February 2020.

Keywords: soccer performance tracker, player stats, wearable sensor, sports analytics, athlete monitoring, sprint speed, soccer data, player development, gamification, team sports technology, athletic performance, sports wearable, soccer training tool, youth soccer, college recruitment, accelerometry, performance metrics, sports AI, personal coaching, individual player stats