We have to say that we were a little skeptical when we saw that another “math book” involving soccer was coming out. That has been done before and quite well, but this time was an even better experience thanks to David Sumpter’s Soccermatics.
Touted as a “mathematical adventure through the beautiful game,” this title certainly lives up to and exceeds expectations. The biggest positive for this book is that it is approachable, certainly much more than Soccernomics from Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski. Sumpter, by trade a math professor in Sweden, does a great job relating to the reader. He brings lofty mathematical concepts and models to the hardcore fan, complete with graphics, charts, and diagrams. Sumpter is very likeable, probably much more than your middle or high school math teacher. And he shares our passion for the beautiful game.
It makes math fun and interesting, something that many people have trouble saying. Reading Soccermatics actually gives you a new perspective on sport, a paradigm shift so to speak. As the book says, thinking Soccermatically will show players, teams, managers, and fans in a new light. It’s bringing math to the real world and the pitch at the same time.
You’ll see the author break down every aspect of the game, from scoring goals and landing bicycle kicks to attacking football and making smart bets and predictions. He proves that numbers play an important role in soccer. After all ,we do have stats for just about everything in soccer, including passing, possession, fouls, cards, goals, assists, tackles, clearances, the list goes on and on.
Soccermatics is a different kind of text, one that entertains and informs. You feel like a better fan when you’re done. You’ll certainly be a more educated one once you finish this book.
