Hockey Friday with Erica L. Ayala, December 11, 2020
Make Data Cool (again?) — Interview with Mike Murphy — Must-click women's hockey links
(Hi! Howard Megdal here. The IX helps build the necessary infrastructure for women’s sports media. By connecting these worlds, it gives women’s sports the networking boost men’s sports can take for granted.
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Make Data Cool (again?!)
Days after I spoke with Mike Murphy (more on that later), the NWHL announced their partnership with Stathletes for the 2021 season. I am beyond excited that there will be comprehensive data for the #NDubble.
I’ve made this argument before, but data is important in sports. Especially when it comes to having more women represented in the Hockey Hall of Fame. There are a lot of excuses when it comes to giving space their well-deserved space in society. Data should not be one of them.
Additionally, we’ve seen lots of post-college leagues come and go, having accurate stats can make a case for the success of an individual player across their entire career. Think of Blake Bolden, who played in the CWHL, NWHL, Swiss League, and the PWHPA. My eye test tells me she was elite at every level — but I am a BB truther, lol.
If you doubt me, though, one way to omit any bias would be to have the numbers for comparisons.
Having stats also help when it comes to end-of-year awards. Well, not always, because somehow the WNBA DPOY was … oh, sorry! This is Friday and not Wednesday. Sorry Howard. (Editor’s note: always here on any day for your spicy takes, Erica.) Back to the hockey!
Defenders are criminally underrated because of the simplicity of most WoHo stats. A really good defender does things every shift to not only eliminate the amount of goals or shots, but also to eliminate the need to block shots. Defense is all about positioning, anticipating, ice vision, etc. Where are the stats categories for all of that?
Math is not my gift, but debate certainly is! When people like Mike Murphy, Meghan Chayka, or Alyssa Longmuir do the fancy data things, it helps me pull receipts and win more debates. I like winning!
Moreover, women’s hockey wins when we measure the data. Fans can look up stats of the favorite (or least favorite) teams and players. Fantasy teams, gambling, and more. In summary, let’s make data cool!
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This Week in Women’s Hockey
DO YOU BELIEVE IN MORE COVERAGE FOR WOMEN IN SPORTS? Good, click these links and show decision-makers that if you post it, we will read it! If you have any hot tips for great stories or voices you’d like to see in The IX, email me: erica@ericaLayala.com.
Must-Click Links
Meghan Chayka talks about Stahletes x NWHL.
Lisa Haley joins Digit Murphy on Toronto Six bench.
Rangers rookie reps the PWHPA.
Blake Bolden joins the Bar Down Beauties Podcast.
“I’m going to work to make sure whoever the next commissioner is, the league is in a stronger place. But right now I have a tall order of getting a lot of things right and fast.”
Ty Tumminia talks to Jared Clinton.
Shannon Szabados writes and illustrates her first children’s book.
Penn State discusses new NCAA OT rule.
Four NWHL teams raise $2,000 for Black Girl Hockey Club.
“Sponsors such as Scotiabank are making it possible for women and young girls to pursue their dreams and achieve success at the highest level possible”
Brigette Lacquette reacts to Scotiabank becoming official sponsor of PWHPA Calgary.
Marsha Jones on the new home of the Toronto Six.
Black Girl Hockey Club x Erie Otters #GetUncomfortable.
COVID Updates
NEWHA set to return in January.
“Return of the Maine”.
Wisco won’t hit the ice until 2021, so enjoy this MAILBAG.
Lisa Haley joins Digit Murphy on Toronto Six bench.
Players are ready for the #NDubble/Snow Globe.
Tweet of the Week
I mean …
Five at The IX: Mike Murphy
Mike Murphy is the founder of HerHockeyCounts, a public database for women’s hockey. He is also my fellow co-founder of the Founding 4 Podcast! It was a delight to reunite with my former co-host. Catch the full interview here!
