Graduate Lewis scores dream role at Salford City FC

The MSc Performance Analysis in Sport graduate has already achieved success beyond the lecture theatre, landing a role as Lead Academy Analyst at Salford City FC.

Lewis chose to study at Salford as he knew the course was “well connected with local clubs in and around Manchester” and his aim was always “to enhance my knowledge and skills around performance analysis in sport”.

These links into the industry were vital to Lewis. He explains: “The course helped me connect with people in the industry by having guest speakers in some lectures, which provided me with both future contacts and valuable knowledge.”

Despite being challenging at times, Lewis says his studies have made him “a more experienced and well-rounded performance analyst”.

The biggest challenge for Lewis was the sheer scale of his research project. “It was difficult as I needed a large sample size. I overcame this by constructing a schedule to ensure I collected the data on time. 

“If I could go back and speak to myself on day one of starting studies, I would say work hard, and keep working when times get tough. I actually really enjoyed the practical elements of the course, and learning about different ways you can analyse performance and different ways to feedback.”

Dr Mark Quinn, Lecturer in Sports Science and Performance Analysis at the university, and Programme Leader for the MSc Performance Analysis in Sport, said: “Lewis has worked extremely hard to progress within performance analysis and has really developed his applied skills using industry standard technologies. He has become very knowledgeable on set pieces with excellent research projects investigating corners and free kicks across domestic and international football.
 
“The MSc Performance Analysis in Sport has many great opportunities for careers within sport with professional accreditation, industry experience, and interdisciplinary practice a focal point of the degree. This academic year we have had students investigate and work within a diverse range of sports including football, rugby league, rugby union, netball, hockey, and dressage. 
 
“This is a degree that offers great translation to careers beyond sport as students make sense of diverse data streams, explore consultancy services, and make complex scientific information actionable for various stakeholders.”

These experiences helped Lewis progress into his dream career. He tells us: “In my current role as Lead Academy Analyst I am also responsible for helping the first team analyst. In future I hope to be head of analysis at a football club, in the Championship or Premier League, and I’d also love to be involved with Welsh national team or youth squads!”