Shashwat Kamat’s journey as an analyst began back in 2019 when FC Goa made a social media post recruiting college ambassadors. His foray into analytics began unexpectedly during an internship focused on marketing and sponsorship at FC Goa. Little did he know that this experience would set the stage for a remarkable trajectory within the football industry.
From the initial internship, Shashwat’s story provides a blueprint for aspiring football analysts on how to evolve from an enthusiastic learner to a seasoned professional. His journey involved seamlessly transitioning through various roles, including Team Operations and Stadium Operations, before finding his calling as an analyst for the women’s team.
Shashwat spent a year as a college ambassador for FC Goa before applying for an internship to help with the soccer camps for the Gaurs. Supported by his colleagues and family, he improved his communication skills and connection building and when he came across the opportunity to be the analyst for the women’s team, there was no looking back.
Shashwat’s versatility became evident as he navigated through different roles, from Team Operations to Stadium Operations. However, his pivotal role as an analyst for the women’s team sparked his journey into the world of analysis. Despite lacking prior experience in the field, Shashwat’s eagerness to learn caught the attention of key figures in the football community.
Three influential mentors played a crucial role in shaping Shashwat’s analytical prowess: Lokesh Bherwani, Senior Manager of Scouting and Analysis; Ravi Puskur, Director of Football; and Amrit Murali, Manager of Technical Analysis. Under their guidance, Shashwat not only learned the intricacies of analytics but also gained insights into the latest trends shaping the sports industry.
“I didn’t have prior experience in this field, but I was trusted by three people to learn and understand,” says Shashwat, reflecting on the pivotal moments that fueled his growth. As he delved into handling technical reports, including Opposition Analysis for the development and first teams, he encountered Pankaj, the first team analyst, who played a significant role in his development by explaining technical terms and fostering his growth.
The journey continued with roles at the U-18 level, eventually leading to a breakthrough as an Assistant Analyst for the First Team. Despite the accolades of becoming the youngest analyst in the country and one of the youngest globally, Shashwat remains driven to keep growing and getting better.
However, life threw unexpected challenges his way. Shashwat’s commitment to pursuing further studies was interrupted when his father was diagnosed with cancer, compelling him to stay back. Undeterred, he sought new opportunities and found a supportive environment at Bengaluru FC as an Analyst for the academy. “The technical director and senior management really supported me a lot and made me learn a lot of things,” Shashwat reflects on the unwavering support he received. Unfortunately, familial obligations forced him to leave the position, highlighting the personal sacrifices intertwined with his professional journey.
“Both Goa and Bengaluru have put a lot of effort into grassroots” – Shashwat Kamat
Shashwat’s story is not just a personal triumph but also a glimpse into the evolving landscape of Indian football. “The two teams I’ve worked with have really put a lot of effort into the grassroots and hopefully sooner or later more clubs will start investing into it more. Looking at how Indian football is shaping up it’s going to be a tough but amazing ride.”, he added. With a keen focus on grassroots development, the clubs he worked with are contributing significantly to shaping the future of the sport in the country.
“For me, it was a dream come true because I got the opportunity to work with the team that I’ve been following and loving for many years,” Shashwat shares. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to self-improvement, currently pursuing certifications to enhance his skills in the ever-evolving field of sports analytics.
As Shashwat continues chasing his dreams, he acknowledges the invaluable support of his friends and colleagues. A special mention goes to certain individuals who became his second family at FC Goa: those in the Sponsorship team, the Team Manager for the FC Goa first team, and the Senior Manager of Social Media. Their unwavering support, combined with Shashwat’s determination, paints a compelling narrative of a young analyst leaving an indelible mark on Indian football.
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