I am not sure where to start regarding my experience of participating in The International Football Scouting Course that took place last weekend.
In fact, at first, I was not sure as to why I would want to be part of a player scouting program.
I may have even tried to resist registering for the course, but the passion and the love one has for ‘The Beautiful Game’ took over.
I can assure you, dear reader, that I’m now absolutely grateful to the ‘Still-Small-Voice’, that the Great Maker provided for me to join this life – and professional-enhancing course.
Organised by V Agency, the course is designed for individuals passionate about football and looking to build a career in scouting.
To my amazement, this program is already delivering what it has promised to bestow on participants.
Today, I have become another soccer lover with a comprehensive foundation covering both youth and professional scouting and modern data-driven methods.
There’s lots to learn.
However, I can attest that I am gaining ground and meeting the objectives of this course, as V Agency notes, the course equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in football scouting.
Indeed, that is what I have encountered so far.
Even so, the composition of the course is world-class.
I have also benefited greatly from learning through theoretical modules and gained insights into scouting fundamentals, and practical assignments, where I will apply what I have learned to real-world scenarios and expert guidance: here I learned from industry professionals with years of experience.
And that the Introduction to International Football Scouting program features big names and notable soccer brands just adds fuel to the program.
But most importantly the course is an eye-opener into the “behind the scenes” of the world of football.
I can testify that this course has rejuvenated my enthusiasm for football, education, and learning.
I’m so looking forward to sharing and applying all that I have learned and what I will learn going forward to take football to greater heights.
I can certainly tell the football fraternity that without professional scouts and scouting, football clubs and national teams will struggle and even collapse.
The scout is the hidden CEO of football organisations.
The scout goes beyond watching and evaluating players during games or training and on-and-off the field behaviour and performances of players.
To provide reports to the coaching and technical teams; Sporting Director & Medical Team and other departments related to players’ welfare.
The scout also has to Network and Build Relationships with other scouts, coaches, agents, and football informants for latest heats and potential stars ready for the big stage.
I can say that the success or failure of football clubs and national teams depends on the quality of scouts present.
*Thandisizwe Mgudlwa is a South African Reporter. He is participating in the Introduction to International Football Course. The views expressed by Thandisizwe Mgudlwa are not necessarily those of The Bulrushes
