APFA-The Association of Professional Analysis was formed by Analysts, for Analysts and aims to represent the football analysis industry worldwide. We aim to tackle a number of key issues and improve the industry via active education, community, career progression and goodwill.
For a long time football analysis has been publicly represented by individuals or companies who many cases have no background in applying analysis theory in practice in the real world. Some of them have ulterior motives, while some are simply trying to build a brand, reputation or following online. The level of discussion and analysis work in the public sphere often adds little value, and the rise of click bait content has watered down the reputation and understanding of what quality analysis can offer coaches, players or the football industry as a whole.
This gives people the feeling that they can already deliver quality analysis. Coaches and key decision makers think it’s a simple job, because what they see as ‘analysis’ publicly on social media and TV is often far from what a good analyst can provide a team or player.
This has had a huge impact in a number of areas including professional Analyst salaries, the rise of unpaid internships, and poor working conditions.
While nobody has the right to ‘own’ the analysis space and ‘gatekeep’ who can and can’t represent our profession, this situation has caused some major issues for the analysis industry. Public awareness and understanding is undoubtedly improving, but among many Analysts there’s a feeling there’s still a long way to go.
The APFA will have a large focus on personal development with bespoke formal and informal education and mentorship for existing and aspiring Analysts & Coaches. We also aim to bolster the Analysis community by providing tools for our members, improving job awareness and working conditions for current or aspiring Analysts.
