Bridging the Gap in Football Analytics: Introducing Scout Edge Analytics’ Localised Networking Events

Scout Edge Analytics is redefining how aspiring football analysts break into the industry. Through their affordable, accessible, and insightful networking events, Patryk and Dylan are creating pathways for the next generation of analysts to connect, learn, and thrive. As they continue to expand, their commitment to fostering meaningful professional relationships and providing high-quality opportunities remains unwavering. For anyone passionate about football analysis, Scout Edge Analytics’ events are not to be missed.

In the competitive world of football analysis, breaking into the industry can be a daunting challenge. Recognising this, Patryk Bialowas and Dylan Carpenter have embarked on a mission to create opportunities for aspiring analysts through innovative networking events. 

The Genesis of Scout Edge Analytics

Patryk’s journey into football began over five years ago, starting as a goalkeeper coach in non-league football, progressing through coaching, managing, and eventually taking on analytical roles with clubs like Hereford, and even working on consultancy projects with Gwardia Warsaw. His experience underscored the difficulty of entering the football industry, leading him to establish Scout Edge Analytics. Patryk shared, “Football is a tough industry to get into for work, this is where I initially set up Scout Edge Analytics to help individuals to break into the industry. There are many networking events out there through different companies, but I thought to myself that there must be a way to regionalise these and create a more reasonable price.”

Dylan, on the other hand, discovered his passion for analysis during his current university years. Despite initially focusing on rugby, he was introduced to Scout Edge Analytics by Patryk. The appeal of this ground-breaking initiative was immediate, and he joined as Director and Lead Analytic Consultant. Dylan explained, “Patryk, who I had worked with on our university courses already, introduced me to this new and exciting project. I knew instantly that I needed and wanted to be involved. After explaining to me what was involved, Patryk offered me the role as Director and Lead Analytic Consultant and the rest is history really.”

The Inspiration Behind the Networking Events

Patryk and Dylan both recognised a significant gap in the market. Traditional networking events in football are often large, expensive, and held at major stadiums, making them inaccessible to many aspiring analysts. Patryk’s own experience of never having formally applied for a football job highlighted the importance of personal connections in the industry. “I thought that it is such an ache to try to get to know people in the industry. Because of busy schedules in the sport with training and matches it creates difficulty for meeting new people. I looked at what was existing, and I attended a few networking events within different industries such as acting and law as I have previous experience in those fields. I thought to myself ‘why doesn’t this exist in sport?’”

Dylan stressed the need to empathise with those trying to break into the industry. “We needed to put ourselves in everyone else’s shoes almost. I know that personally to get into the industry one of these networking events would be perfect. We came together and decided this was something we needed to make happen because we know it will be a success.”

Influences and Mentorship

When discussing influences, Patryk attributes much of his early success to Alex Jenkins, former Head Analyst at Hereford FC, who provided invaluable mentorship. “Alex Jenkins took me on when I was about 16. He helped me find my feet and guide me through the experience as I was only young working in a competitive environment. He gave me a chance and he trusted me which I am always thankful for.” Patryk also draws inspiration from Jose Mourinho, admiring his innovative thinking and self-confidence. “I have always looked to him as an inspiration.”

Dylan shares this admiration for Mourinho’s technical brilliance and also acknowledges the impact of his own journey through rugby analysis. “I think Jose, as we said, isn’t an analyst but his technical insights and his own style make me think that he is technically brilliant.”

What to Expect from the Event

Scheduled for August 14th 2024 in Cardiff, Wales, the upcoming networking event promises a comprehensive experience catering to analysts of all skill levels. Patryk elaborated, “we’ve got a few people currently working full-time in big clubs to talk about their experiences and how they got into their current contracts because there is a lot of unpaid work to get into the industry. We thought it is a good idea to get someone in who has got past that first initial barrier. We’re also in talks about bringing in professionals from many big clubs including some EFL clubs to come down so that people can build meaningful relationships with bigger people in the industry.”

Recognising the growing importance of social media in sports, the event will also feature account managers of prominent influencers. Dylan added, “It is nice to cover a range of not only club representatives but also the social media side. It gives the individuals that come along a chance to get to know people with the networking with the clubs and to learn how to build their professional career online.” 

Advice for Aspiring Analysts

Both Patryk and Dylan underline the importance of specialising in a niche. “To be one of the best people in the world at one very specific thing is very special,” Patryk advised. Dylan concurred, “I definitely agree that you need something that stands you out above everyone else. I always think that there is something there for everyone, but it is just about putting in the work and really attempting to find it.”

Future Plans

The success of their events has exceeded expectations, attracting interest from across Europe, including countries like Belgium, Poland, and Germany. While currently focusing on the UK, Patryk and Dylan are exploring the possibility of hosting events at prominent EFL and Premier League stadiums. Patryk shared, “We are based in Cardiff, and we have experienced interest from all across Europe. The hope now is to host events at some of the stadiums home to big EFL and Premier League clubs so people can get the experience of working at the elite levels and have the chance to network too.”

Dylan reflected on the unexpected growth, “The exposure surrounding this event has been quite surreal to be honest, we didn’t expect this much attention which is really amazing for us as a business starting up. We are definitely looking to expand across the UK as far as we can stretch, meeting the needs and demands of many people across the UK and maybe outside of this proximity in the future.”

Scout Edge Analytics is pioneering a new approach to networking in the football analysis industry. By hosting affordable, localised networking events, Patryk and Dylan are offering aspiring analysts the chance to connect with established professionals, gain industry insights, and advance their careers. Their commitment to accessibility and community-building sets them apart, making their events a must-attend for anyone serious about a future in football analysis.