Crusaders welcome new partnership with data specialists Parallel 42

The Crusaders are excited to announce a new partnership with Christchurch‑based data and analytics consultancy Parallel 42 – a collaboration that strengthens our high‑performance programme and deepens the way we use world‑class data insights right across the season.

This partnership formalises a relationship that is now in its fourth season and has become a key part of how we prepare, analyse, and make decisions week to week. By bringing clarity to complex information, Parallel 42 supports us in making smarter choices that help our players perform at their best.

Parallel 42 Director Hayden Park says the partnership felt like a natural alignment between two organisations committed to performance and continuous improvement.

“At Parallel 42 we are passionate about the power of data to unlock insights and drive better decisions. Working with the Crusaders allows us to apply our expertise in a high‑performance sporting environment where small insights can make a meaningful difference,” says Park.

Parallel 42 is a specialist business intelligence and data consultancy that works with organisations to unlock the real value of their data. Their team helps identify trends, build reliable data systems and transform huge datasets into clear, meaningful insights that drive performance.

Founded by Christchurch directors Hayden Park and Owen Sarll, the company has built a reputation for helping people truly understand their data and turn it into action.

Within the Crusaders environment, their work connects closely with our rugby analysts led by Jon Gardner and our Sports Science team led by Beth Smith, helping us bring together information from every part of the high‑performance programme.

Director Owen Sarll says the relationship also reflects how quickly the role of data is evolving in elite sport.

“Modern sport generates enormous amounts of information, and the challenge is turning that data into clear, actionable insights. Our role is to work alongside the Crusaders’ analysts and sports science team to help surface patterns, trends and opportunities that support performance on and off the field.”

From weekly load management to recovery planning, their insights support how we look after our players – ensuring they’re primed to perform while also protecting long‑term wellbeing.

On game day, Parallel 42 works in real time to identify trends, gaps and opportunities that can influence tactical decisions. Their work also extends to analysing opposition teams and referees, providing our coaching group with a deeper layer of understanding.

“The Crusaders are recognised around the world for their professionalism and high standards. To be trusted as part of that environment is incredibly exciting for our team, and we’re proud to play a role in helping the club prepare and perform at the highest level,” says Jeff Komen, from the Parallel 42 team.

Crusaders Head of Rugby Analysis Jon Gardner says that support has become increasingly important across the high‑performance programme.

“Our partnership with P42 has been highly collaborative and has delivered an automated reporting suite that provides timely insights and has transformed the way data is integrated across our environment. Tactical and technical conversations are now supported by insights that not only describe 'the game' but are tailored specifically to our own game model.”

Head of Sports Science Beth Smith says the relationship plays a direct role in both immediate performance and long‑term athlete wellbeing.

“Parallel 42 support us in unifying multiple data sources across both the performance and analysis departments. The visualisations assist us in making quick, informed decisions that support both player rehabilitation and team performance, which is critical in a highly competitive league like Super Rugby.”

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge brings it all together, saying the partnership reflects both innovation and community connection.

“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Parallel 42. Having a Canterbury‑based business with world‑class expertise working alongside our high‑performance team is something really special. It’s another example of how innovation, technology and local knowledge can combine to help drive success for the Crusaders.”

As data and analytics continue to shape the future of professional sport, the partnership between the Crusaders and Parallel 42 ensures the club remains at the forefront of preparation and performance – using cutting‑edge insights to support success on and off the field.