Job Description
We are looking for a dedicated and insightful Academy Scout to join our football club’s talent identification team. As an Academy Scout, you will play a pivotal role in identifying, evaluating, and recommending young players with the potential to excel in our academy and eventually contribute to the success of the club. This position requires a keen eye for talent, an in-depth understanding of player development, and a passion for nurturing future football stars.
Key Responsibilities:
Talent Identification
- Attend matches, tournaments, and training sessions to scout young players.
- Identify players with exceptional technical skills, athletic ability, and potential for development.
- Maintain a network of contacts within grassroots clubs, schools, and academies to discover emerging talent.
Player Evaluation
- Assess players’ physical, technical, tactical, and psychological attributes.
- Create detailed reports on scouted players, highlighting strengths, areas for improvement, and overall potential.
- Use video analysis and performance data to support scouting decisions.
Collaboration and Communication
- Work closely with academy coaches and recruitment staff to align scouting efforts with the club’s philosophy and requirements.
- Share insights and recommendations on players with the recruitment team during regular meetings.
- Build strong relationships with local clubs, schools, and community organizations.
Record Keeping and Monitoring
- Maintain an up-to-date database of scouted players.
- Monitor the progress of identified players and provide updates on their development.
- Ensure compliance with all regulations regarding youth recruitment and player welfare.
Strategic Contribution
- Contribute to the club’s long-term academy recruitment strategy.
- Stay informed about industry trends and innovations in talent identification and player development.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Proven experience in scouting or talent identification within football.
- Deep understanding of player development pathways and the technical, tactical, and physical demands of the game.
- Excellent observational and analytical skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Familiarity with performance analysis tools and scouting software is a plus.
- A passion for football and a commitment to nurturing young talent.
- Coaching or scouting certifications, such as FA Level 2 Talent Identification or equivalent, are preferred.
What We Offer:
- The opportunity to shape the future of our academy by identifying top talent.
- A dynamic and supportive environment with professional development opportunities.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
If you have a sharp eye for talent and a passion for fostering the next generation of football stars, we encourage you to apply and be a vital part of our academy’s success.