SPARQ is a rating system developed by Nike that is used to measure athleticism. SPARQ is an acronym for speed, power, agility, reaction and quickness.
A football player’s SPARQ score is measured through four tests: 40-yard dash, short shuttle, bench press (or kneeling powerball toss) and vertical jump. The score is then adjusted for the player’s weight.
Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks were early proponents of the SPARQ rating system, and its formula was developed in part by Seahawks strength coach Chris Carlisle. Unfortunately, Nike’s SPARQ calculator is no longer available to the public.