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Sports Analyst

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A sports analyst studies and interprets data related to sports events, teams, and athletes. Their work involves reviewing statistics, creating reports, and providing insights for media coverage, team strategy, or public consumption. Sports analysts may work for television and radio broadcasters, online platforms, newspapers, or directly with sports clubs and associations. Day-to-day tasks can include reviewing match footage, using statistical software, preparing pre- and post-match analyses, and sometimes appearing on air to provide expert commentary. A strong knowledge of sports, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to communicate findings clearly are essential in this career.

Sports Analyst

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a sports analyst in the UK ranges from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, with experienced analysts in top media outlets earning up to £60,000.

Job Openings

There are approximately 300 to 500 sports analyst positions advertised annually across the UK, with opportunities in broadcasting, print media, and sports organisations.

Growth Rate

The demand for sports analysts is expected to grow by around 7 percent over the next five years, due to the increasing importance of data in sports performance and media coverage.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Football Performance Analyst

Specialises in collecting and interpreting data on football matches and players to improve team strategy and performance.

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Cricket Data Analyst

Focuses on analysing statistics and player performances in cricket to help coaches and teams make informed decisions.

Sports Broadcast Statistician

Works with broadcasters to provide in-depth statistics and insights during live sports events.

Develop a Strong Foundation in Sports and Mathematics

Study Relevant GCSEs or Equivalent

Choose GCSEs (or National 5s in Scotland) in subjects such as Maths, English, and Physical Education to build analytical and communication skills.

Mathematics will help you understand statistics, while English will improve your written and verbal communication. Physical Education gives you an understanding of sports from a practical perspective, which is vital for this career.

Focus on A-levels or BTECs

Consider A-levels in Maths, Statistics, or Sports Science, or a BTEC in Sport or Media Studies.

Advanced study in maths or statistics will make it easier to analyse complex data later. Sports Science or Media Studies will help you understand both the physical and communication aspects of sports analysis.

Gain Specialist Knowledge and Experience

Obtain a Degree in a Relevant Subject

Apply for a university degree in Sports Science, Data Analytics, Journalism, or a related field.

A degree in Sports Science or Analytics will give you in-depth knowledge of sports performance and data analysis. Journalism degrees are also helpful if you want to work in broadcasting or media. Many universities offer placement opportunities to gain industry experience.

Get Work Experience or Internships

Look for internships or voluntary roles with sports media companies, clubs, or organisations.

Experience in a real sports environment is very valuable. You could assist with match analysis, collect statistics, or contribute to sports reports. Many broadcasters and sports organisations offer summer internships or work experience placements.

Build Your Profile and Enter the Industry

Develop a Portfolio of Work

Create and share your own sports analysis, such as blog posts, podcasts, or social media content.

Showcasing your analytical skills and insights online can help you build a following and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers. Analyse games, write match reports, or produce video breakdowns of sporting events.

Apply for Entry-Level Sports Analyst Positions

Look for junior or assistant analyst roles at sports clubs, media outlets, or analytics companies.

Entry-level roles might involve supporting senior analysts, preparing statistics, or presenting data. Keep networking and attending sports industry events to meet professionals and learn about new opportunities.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Sports Analyst. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

A Sports Analyst and a Performance Sports Scientist both focus on evaluating athletic performance using data and scientific methods. They work closely with athletes and coaches to improve performance and reduce injury risk through analysis and research.

How to become

You can get into this job through a university course.

University

You could take a degree course in sport and exercise science. Courses that include the 3 main subjects of biomechanics, physiology and psychology, will help to keep your job and study options open later on.

Alternatively, you could study for a degree in a science related subject followed by a postgraduate qualification in sports science.

Related subjects include:

  • physical education
  • natural sciences
  • physiology
  • psychology

It's quite common for sports scientists to have or be working towards a postgraduate qualification.

Courses that include work placements or internship opportunities could give you an advantage when job hunting after completing your studies. This is something to ask universities about when you're looking at their courses.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

More Information

Career tips

Experience as fitness instructor, lifeguard, coach or volunteering, for example with a sports club, may improve your career prospects.

It will help you stand out in a competitive jobs market if you have extra qualifications like:

  • first aid
  • gym instructing
  • safeguarding

Professional and industry bodies

You could join The British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) for professional development opportunities.

Further information

You'll find more advice on careers in sports science from The British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences and Careers in Sport.

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