Ep32 - Liam Connor Strategy - Asking Deliberate Performance Questions

In this episode of Performance Strategies and Stumbles, we are again joined by Liam Connor, Head of Performance at Newcastle United Women’s Football Team. Together, we explore the importance of answering performance questions deliberately and accurately int his performance strategy episode.

When we recorded this episode, Liam. was working with England Badminton. From his time there, he breaks down the common errors practitioners make — such as retrospectively trying to answer questions without the right data, overlooking critical variables, or jumping to conclusions that aren’t supported by evidence. We discuss why the process should always begin with the question, not the data, and how to identify exactly what information is needed to answer it properly.

The conversation also highlights the importance of involving coaches and key stakeholders to ensure alignment, clarity, and practical relevance. Liam shares a powerful example from a project investigating how travel and extended periods away from the training environment influence physical markers and performance — including a noticeable drop after three weeks away.

This episode is ultimately about intentionality, collaboration, and being proactive rather than reactive when tackling performance questions.

Before diving in, listen to the details we share on our Future Ready Employability Mentorship, proudly sponsored by TeamBuildr — a 12-week FREE employability mentorship for 15 coaches, designed to help emerging coaches bridge the gap between education and employment through practical learning, self-awareness, and industry insights. Applications are now open by visiting: www.collaboratesports.com/sponsored

We hope you are enjoying the return of the show!

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