The pursuit of wisdom in any walk of life quickly reveals that what you think you know is not nearly enough to get you to where you want to go. As I'm starting out in my football scouting journey I challenged myself to reach out to those already working in various roles in football to answer a short list of questions. My goal wasn't to get answers but relevant perspectives on the game within the game.
Here is Driblab:
Here is Driblab:
How did your first opportunity in football come about?
I got approached by an agent after writing on a blog and posting the link on twitter/social media. What attracted you to scouting/analytics? What’s more intriguing now names or numbers?
I worked as a consultant for NBA basketball teams as a freelance consultant and liking football more than hoops, I switched to football as data became more available What player or concept you fascinates you? What caught your eye?
Players that find open space and being able to quantify it. What is the biggest misconception you’ve found in this space?
People that have been working in the industry for years believe people in the analytics sphere do not watch football. If you could start over what skill would you build on first?
Programming skills that lead to better/cleaner data viz. What is more important player development or recruitment? Why?
Well, we do recruitment as we aren't coaches so blowing my own trumpet a little bit. But both are important obviously. I also believe that having a great head coach/coaching staff is more important than any particular player with the exception of Cristiano, Messi and the few likes. What is your favorite sports moment? Why?
Champions League final in Barcelona, Bayern Munchen vs. Manchester United. Anything can happen. Also World Cup final of 1986. Maradona was a man amongst boys despite not scoring. What coach/player/team inspires you? Why?
Pat Riley. Great coach and executive. Has overachieved everywhere he has been. What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into this space?
Public your work. Better than any CV is to have a portfolio of things you can do or try to do.
Who is your favorite athlete? Why?
I have many. I would go with Ray Allen just because of how he redefined his game as he got older to still be productive. What is your favorite quote or saying?
Finals are not to be played; they are to be won. - Alfredo Di Stefano
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