Dr. Naomi Datson is an applied sport scientist and researcher recognised for her work in soccer science, the demands of the game, and performance coaching—particularly within the women’s football pathway. Her career blends long-term applied practice in elite football with a strong academic record, making her a respected voice in both research and practitioner education.
Naomi is currently a Senior Lecturer in Applied Sport Science and Performance at The Manchester Metropolitan University (since November 2023), where she contributes to teaching, research, and the development of future practitioners. She also serves as a Fitness Advisory Group Member for UEFA (since January 2022), supporting high-level discussions and guidance connected to elite football performance. Alongside this, she has held a Module Tutor position at Anglia Ruskin University (September 2020–August 2024).
Before Manchester Met, Naomi spent over seven years at the University of Chichester, progressing through senior academic roles including Senior Lecturer, and later Reader in Sports Performance, reflecting sustained contribution to research and teaching in sports performance and analysis.
A major part of Naomi’s professional identity comes from her extensive work with The Football Association (FA) over more than a decade. She served as Head of Sport Science (Women’s) from April 2010 to March 2016, following earlier roles as a sport scientist from 2005 onwards. This period placed her at the centre of applied performance support, helping shape best practice in physical preparation, monitoring, and evidence-based support within elite women’s football.
Her academic background includes a PhD from Liverpool John Moores University (2010–2015) and an MRes in Sport Science (Physiology) with Distinction (2005–2006), providing the research foundation that underpins her applied work. Across her career, Naomi has consistently focused on understanding what the game demands physically and translating that knowledge into smarter training, better decision-making, and improved performance outcomes.
Content Feature:
Soccer Science, Demands of the Game, Performance Coaching