MatchWornScore White Paper
MatchWornScore is a novel metric designed to provide a comprehensive and objective score for each unique match-worn sports shirt. Unlike authentication services, MatchWornScore does not certify whether a shirt was worn in a match. Its mission is to assign a value, not to verify authenticity. Instead, it assigns a score based on multiple dimensions, incorporating both objective data and subjective assessments to deliver a quantifiable and insightful evaluation of a shirt’s desirability and potential value. This whitepaper details the methodology behind the MatchWornScore calculation, explaining the weighting and rationale behind each component to ensure transparency and consistency in the scoring process.
2. What is a Match-Worn Shirt?
A match-worn shirt is a piece of sports apparel that was actually worn by an athlete during an official game or competition. These shirts hold significant value for collectors and fans due to their tangible connection to a specific player and event. Authenticating these shirts and determining their relative value can be a complex process. MatchWorn Score aims to simplify this process.
3. The MatchWornScore Formula
The MatchWornScore is calculated using a weighted average of eight key components. Each component contributes to the final score based on its perceived importance in determining the overall value of the shirt. The formula is as follows:
MatchWornScore = (Photo Match Score * 0.20) + (Player Rating Score * 0.15) + (Shirt Dirtiness Score * 0.15) + (Game/League Rating Score * 0.10) + (Shirt Age Score * 0.07) + (Rarity Score * 0.06) + (Shirt Condition Score * 0.05) + (Game Worn Time Score * 0.05) + (AI Score * 0.05) + (Long Sleeve Score * 0.03) + (Special Patch Score * 0.03) + (Duel Torn Score * 0.03) + (Signature Score * 0.03)
Each component is scored on a scale of 1 to 100, with 100 representing the highest possible value for that category. The weighted scores are then summed to produce the final MatchWornScore, also on a scale of 1 to 100.
4. Component Breakdown
4.1 Photo Match Score (20%):
This score reflects the visual evidence confirming the shirt was worn in the claimed match. High-quality photos or video clearly showing the shirt being worn by the player during the specific game will receive higher scores. The assessment of visual evidence will consider even the smallest details, from a unique dirt mark to a barely visible thread, to establish a definitive match. Factors considered include the clarity and resolution of the images or video, the number of images/frames available, and the undeniable match between the shirt details (e.g., patches, sponsor logos, specific markings, dirt patterns) and the game in question. The goal is to establish beyond reasonable doubt that the shirt in question was indeed worn in the claimed match, leveraging all available visual cues, however minor.
4.2 Player Rating Score (15%):
This score considers the player’s overall performance and reputation. Shirts worn by star players or those who had a particularly impactful game will receive higher scores. Factors considered include player statistics, awards, and general recognition within the sport.
4.3 Shirt Dirtiness Score (15%):
This score assesses the visible signs of wear and tear on the shirt. While excessive damage can detract from value (see Shirt Condition), some collectors appreciate visible dirt and markings as evidence of the shirt’s authenticity and use in a real match. A balance must be struck between desirable “wear and tear” and detrimental damage.
4.4 Game/League Rating Score (10%):
This score reflects the importance and prestige of the match or league in which the shirt was worn. Shirts worn in major finals, high-profile derbies, or significant international competitions will receive higher scores. Factors considered include the level of competition, the historical significance of the game, and the overall viewership/interest.
4.5 Shirt Age Score (7%):
Older shirts, especially those from historically significant eras or featuring iconic designs, may command higher values. This score reflects the age and potential historical significance of the shirt.
4.6 Rarity Score (6%):
This score reflects the scarcity of the shirt. Limited edition shirts, Limited edition sponsor or patches, or shirts from historically significant events will receive higher scores.
4.7 Shirt Condition Score (5%):
This score evaluates the overall physical condition of the shirt, considering the context of it being match-worn. Unlike a brand-new shirt, imperfections resulting from game action, such as tears, rips, and stains, can actually increase the score, adding to the shirt’s story and authenticity. These signs of wear, often referred to as “battle scars,” can be highly desirable and contribute to the shirt’s unique character. While excessive damage or alterations unrelated to game use will negatively impact the score, the presence of game-worn imperfections, even significant ones, can be viewed positively, potentially elevating the shirt to a “masterpiece” status in the eyes of collectors. The score, therefore, reflects a nuanced assessment of the shirt’s condition, balancing the desirability of game-worn characteristics against detrimental damage.
4.8 Game Worn Time Score (5%):
This score reflects the amount of time the player wore the shirt during the match. Shirts worn for the majority of the game will receive higher scores. Evidence such as player substitutions or post-match interviews may be used to determine the wear time.
4.9 AI Score (5%):
This score utilizes Artificial Intelligence to analyze images of the shirt and compare it to other known match-worn shirts. The AI considers factors such as stitching patterns, fabric characteristics, and other subtle details that may be difficult for the human eye to detect, adding an extra layer of authentication and comparison.
4.10 Long Sleeve Score (3%):
A small bonus is given to long sleeve shirts.
4.11 Special Patch Score (3%):
Shirts that contain special patches gain a small bonus.
4.12 Duel Torn Score (3%):
Shirts that contain rips and tears from duels during the match gain a small bonus.
4.13 Signature Score (3%):
A small bonus for signed match worn shirts.
5. Conclusion
MatchWorn Score provides a transparent and data-driven approach to evaluating match-worn shirts. By considering a range of factors, this metric offers a more nuanced and accurate assessment of a shirt’s value, benefiting both collectors and sellers in this exciting and growing market. The MatchWornScore formula and its component weightings have been carefully developed by a committee of recognized match-worn shirt experts. While the formula is designed for long-term stability and consistency, future iterations may be considered if significant changes occur within the match-worn shirt market or collecting community. Any such revisions would be undertaken by a similar expert committee and communicated transparently.