From soccer mom to data scientist: Meet the AI pioneer helping power CofC soccer (PROVIDED)
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) —When the College of Charleston men’s soccer team knocked off the top-ranked program in the nation, it was a statement victory built on relentless effort, tactical execution, and clutch play on the pitch.
It was also supported by a powerful tool behind the scenes—a secret weapon on the Cougars’ bench holding a laptop rather than wearing cleats.
Meet Anissa Williams: a former soccer mom turned graduate researcher who serves as the Head of Data Analytics for the College of Charleston men’s soccer program.
While she isn’t lacing up boots on game day, her analytical work gives the Cougars an extra edge when preparing for competition and evaluating performance.
Trading the Snack Roster for Software Algorithms
Williams’ path into Division I athletics isn’t typical. Like millions of sports parents, her introduction to the sport started in the stands and carpool lines—coordinating schedules, tracking rules, and cheering on her kids.
However, as emerging technologies began reshaping industries worldwide, Williams saw an opportunity to bridge her software engineering background with her love for soccer.
“This was a natural evolution from being the soccer mom, getting things coordinated and understanding the rules,” Williams said. “Turning that into more statistically important information… I was feeling the technology was emerging ahead of me. I really wanted to get into data, learn more AI and analytics. The serendipity with the soccer team has been great.”
Currently completing her Master of Science in Data Science and Analytics at CofC—where her graduate research focuses on applied AI and intelligent systems—Williams joined head coach Keith Wiggans’ staff in 2026.
Decoding the “Cougs Table”
At the heart of her contribution to the program is a custom analytical tool she developed, known internally as the “Cougs Table.”
While a goal counts for a full point in her system, smaller defensive and hustle moments carry calculated value:
Crucial Interceptions:0.2 to 0.4 Points
Match Story Graphs: Real-time intensity tracking and momentum visuals
“It’s a match story—what does it actually look like as far as intensity and where we were leading and driving versus the opponent,” Williams explained. “It is a good story for the team to see all in one place, one graph.”
For Coach Wiggans, having a dedicated data scientist on staff provides a distinct vantage point when breaking down film and evaluating match strategy.
“I don’t think there are many universities that have this ability,” Wiggans said. “Having her on the team and being able to give us this information gives us the cutting edge. We’re not math people, so trying to figure out how it plays in consideration of our results and in consideration of certain individuals has been her massive involvement.”
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“Knowing Enough to Be Dangerous”
Beyond tracking performance metrics, Williams uses predictive modeling, expected goals (xG), and possession breakdowns to assist the coaching staff in scouting opponents and giving players objective feedback on their performance.
Yet despite the technical backend, machine learning, and line-by-line coding required during the week, matchday brings out the pure sports fan in her.
“It’s been fun being on the sidelines and cheering,” Williams smiled. “The energy of soccer and how things change in a second… this seemed like a natural fit. I know that I don’t know as much as the coaches, but I know enough to be a little bit dangerous.”
As the Cougars continue their 2026 campaign following their signature victory over No. 1, the collaboration between traditional coaching and data engineering continues to play a valuable role in the team’s ongoing development.
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