Sports Analytics Summer Internship

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

St. Louis Park Public Schools is seeking one motivated and data-curious high school student for the SLP Sports Analytics Summer Internship. This hands-on summer internship will use real-world data from our high school athletics programs to generate insights that inform coaching and strategic planning.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

All meeting reading writing and presentation duties are outlined in the syllabus. The intern will be responsible for completing reading writing and communication assignments according to deadlines outlined in the syllabus. This internship is specifically structured to develop competencies outlined in the St. Louis Park Public Schools Portrait of a Learner (ASCEND). More information about SLPs Portrait of a Learner can be found here: St. Louis Park Public Schools Portrait of a Learner. Aligned with the Portrait of a Learner the Youth Sports Analytics Summer Intern will develop skills in being:

Authentic:

The intern will actively apply their passion for sports analytics and equity by collaborating with both the Research Department and the Athletics Department. This involves:

• Understanding the role of researcher identity and positionality in quantitative and qualitative research
• Engaging with empathy and purpose to understand the real-world impact of performance and equity data
• Ensuring all analysis is conducted with a focus on promoting fair and inclusive opportunities within the athletic programs

Strategic

The intern will practice critical thinking skills by:

• Formulating data-driven questions about team performance
• Analyzing complex datasets to identify meaningful patterns
• Developing innovative solutions and strategies based on analytical insights. This includes utilizing data analysis to identify and address systemic barriers striving to create more racially equitable opportunities for all students.

Connectors

The intern will practice various forms of communication:

• Writing clear concise journal entries to reflect critical thinking in the areas of self community and data analytics
• Creating compelling visual aids (charts graphs) to communicate complex information simply
• Presenting findings during the final project review. The final presentation is scheduled for the week of August 3rd.
• Working effectively with the athletic staff to understand their data needs
• Participating in team meetings and contributing to group projects with the ARE team
• Clearly communicating data findings to non-technical stakeholders

Empowered

The interns experience and research project will encourage civic responsibility by:

• Using data ethically and responsibly to improve the local school sports community.
• Understanding the impact of data on decision-making within an organization specifically through promoting equity and access for all.

Nimble

The intern will take risks in learning new skills related to

• Statistical analysis
• Research and
• Self-reflection

Dreamers and Innovators

The intern will be empowered and supported to dream and innovate by:

• Living Their Brilliance: Applying creative problem-solving to uncover hidden insights within sports data especially focusing on how analytics can promote social justice and equity within the athletic programs

• Being Curious: Exploring novel data sources analytical techniques and research questions that push the boundaries of traditional sports analytics and address complex societal issues

• Possessing a Drive to Pursue Their Passions: Integrating a passion for sports data and social justice to drive meaningful evidence-based recommendations that lead to positive systemic change

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Reliability: Students must demonstrate an ability to meet deadlines keep appointments when scheduled and follow-through on assigned tasks
• Curiosity: Successful applications will show an interest in learning research methods engaging in critical conversations about social justice equity and its intersection with data analysis in sports
• Writing: This internship is writing intensive. Students must demonstrate an openness to thinking critically through speaking and writing. Writing skills will be developed throughout the summer so students should be interested in expressing their ideas through writing. The student must be able to meet writing deadlines.
• Reading: This internship requires students to be willing to read academic research articles and texts. There will be no quizzes or tests based on the readings. The purpose of the literature is to support the development of the literature review (for the final research project) and introduce SLP High School students to academic texts connected to their research topic.
• Math: Students must demonstrate a willingness to learn and use statistical analysis software
• Technology: Students must demonstrate a basic understanding of how to use computer technology

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Sitting & Standing: Frequent sitting while performing desk tasks and occasional standing when assisting visitors or performing other duties around the office.
• Manual Dexterity: Regular use of hands for typing operating office equipment and handling paperwork.
• Reaching & Lifting: Occasional reaching bending and lifting to 10 pounds to manage files office supplies or equipment.
• Walking: Some walk between office areas classrooms or other departments within the school.
• Vision: Ability to read and review documents data and emails on a computer screen and in print.
• Communication: Must hear and speak clearly to communicate with visitors students and staff.
• Extended Hours at Desk: Prolonged work periods at a computer or desk for administrative tasks.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Office Setting: Primarily works in an office environment including the school office or designated administrative areas.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: Regular interaction with staff students parents and community members requiring teamwork and effective communication.
• Noise Levels: The office environment typically maintains a moderate noise level with periods of higher activity when interacting with students and visitors.
• Fast-Paced Environment: The ability to adapt to changing priorities and a fast-paced environment especially during peak periods such as enrollment or administrative deadlines.
• Work Schedule: Typically works standard school hours with the potential for occasional flexibility based on school needs events or emergencies.
• Occasional Outdoor Activity: Minimal but may require brief outdoor activity when assisting with events or student drop-off/pick-up.
• Safe & Accessible: The workplace is designed to ensure accessibility and safety for all staff students and visitors.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

SLP High School students who have successfully completed AP Statistics (or an equivalent) are able to apply.

The applicant must be an SLP High School student in order to apply.

BENEFIT INFORMATION

This position is classified as Temporary/Seasonal and is not eligible for benefits.

Required Experience:

Intern