What Does a Sports Analyst Do?

If you're wondering what a sports analyst does, know that several types of analysts work in many different ways. Most teams employ a mix of people to handle different aspects of the job.

It's also essential to acquire the skills and knowledge needed for this career path. If you can not afford the money needed to study these courses, use student loans to acquire the appropriate degree for the field you are interested in.

Data Analyst

If you're an analyst who loves crunching numbers and solving puzzles, a data analyst job might be for you. You'll be responsible for collecting data about players, teams, and plays in this role. You'll use this data to create visualizations and reports for coaches and players to help them succeed.

To do this job, you'll need to have a strong understanding of statistics and how to use analysis tools like Excel, Tableau, and Minitab. You'll need to be able to identify opportunities to improve team performance and communicate those ideas to coaches and players.

Video Analyst

If you love watching games and can rapidly notice the slightest nuances that affect player performance, a video analyst job might be for you. In this role, you'll watch game films and practices to help coaches spot ways to improve player performance. You'll also use game footage to identify which plays are most successful and which players are having the most impact.

Video analysts can use different color-coding systems to mark which plays are successful and unsuccessful. They can also add notes to highlight specific players on the field and which moves they make during every play.

Sports Counselor

If you're interested in helping athletes personally, a sports counselor job might be for you. Sports counselors work with players on mental health issues, team dynamics, or other team performance issues. They might also help players find mental health professionals in their area who they can work with on a long-term basis.

To do this job, you'll need to have a strong understanding of mental health and be able to help athletes work through issues both on and off the field. You'll need to be able to identify issues that are affecting the team and help players work through them. You'll also need to communicate those issues and solutions to coaches to help them support the team.

Every sports team can benefit from a sports counselor. Mental health issues are common in many sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and hockey. Having a sports counselor on staff can help players receive support even when they aren't ready to discuss their issues with a coach or trainer.