Do You Really Need That Football Course?

Thinking about working in football? Chances are, at some point, you’ve Googled a course.

Scouting. Coaching badges. Performance analysis. Sporting directorship. Player care. Data.

There’s a course for everything — and it’s easy to assume that’s your next move. You tell yourself: “If I just get that certificate, doors will open.”

But before you hit “enrol,” ask yourself one question:

What problem am I actually trying to solve?

Because not all courses are equal. And not all problems need a qualification.

Sometimes what you really need isn’t a course — it’s a connection. Or clarity. Or confidence. Or a deeper understanding of what the job actually involves day-to-day.

Here’s the truth: football is a relationship-driven industry. Yes, qualifications can help — especially in coaching, safeguarding, or medical roles where certification is non-negotiable. But in many off-pitch roles, courses don’t get you hired. They might get you a foot in the door — if paired with initiative, relevant experience, and strong communication.

The risk is falling into “qualification collecting” mode: stacking up courses without a clear plan, hoping one of them turns into a job. That’s not strategy. That’s panic.

So before you commit:

• Do your research. Have you spoken to someone in the role you want? Do you know what clubs are actually looking for?

• Check the outcomes. Will this course directly improve your chances — or just your confidence?

• Ask what else you could do with that money. Could you shadow someone? Attend a live event? Build a side project or portfolio?

• Think about timing. Is this the best move right now — or is there a better way to get noticed first?

Remember: you’re not starting from scratch. You’re repositioning. Your past experience counts — but only if you know how to package and present it. And often, getting in the room matters more than what’s on paper.

So, do you need that football course?

Maybe. But only if it fits the strategy — not if it’s a substitute for one.