Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable: Ashley March on His Football Analysis Journey with GIS

When former footballer Ashley March was forced to retire at just 18 due to cardiac collapses, his dream of playing professionally came to an abrupt end. However, rather than walking away from the game, Ashley channelled his passion into a new direction that allowed him to stay connected to football at the highest level.

Now studying for an MSc Performance Analysis in Football with GIS, Ashley is building a successful career in performance and recruitment analysis, working across multiple clubs and leagues worldwide.

“After my health issues, I made it my mission to pursue a career within recruitment analysis in professional football,” Ashley explained. “I wanted to build on my tactical knowledge and passion for the game to work at the highest possible level.”

Developing Skills and Confidence with GIS

Starting his master’s in September 2024, Ashley quickly immersed himself in the world of performance analysis, learning new skills across in-game analysis, data analysis, and leadership within sport.

In 2025, he stepped out of his comfort zone by attending the GIS Global Summit in Miami, a week filled with industry guest speakers, networking opportunities, and world-class sporting experiences.

“The Global Summit was incredible. I came back fully inspired and even more motivated to excel in the sporting world,” he said.

Ashley also attended the GIS London Summit, where he connected with leading sports organisations and fellow students from eight different countries, further expanding his global network.

Through GIS, Ashley secured an opportunity to support Mount Pleasant FC in Jamaica with pre-game analysis and scouting. This developed into a formal internship with the club, as well as with RAEC Mons FC in Belgium.

A Growing Career in Global Football

Before joining GIS, Ashley had already made impressive progress in his career. Having been appointed First Team Scout at Exeter City FC during the 2022/23 season, he regularly attended League One, League Two, National League and Academy fixtures, providing detailed scouting reports on potential future Exeter players.

Now, alongside his studies, Ashley continues to gain hands-on experience as a First Team and Academy Performance Analyst and Scout for both Mount Pleasant FC and RAEC Mons FC.

“I can’t wait to continue challenging myself in competitive environments, not just in League One but also in different countries and continents,” he said. “Every experience helps me broaden my knowledge of global football.”

Lessons from the Journey

For Ashley, personal growth and networking have been two key themes throughout his journey with GIS.

“My favourite quote since joining GIS is ‘get comfortable being uncomfortable.’ The maximum amount of self-growth happens outside your comfort zone, and that is something I have really embraced.”

He added,

“The second thing I have learned is that your network is key. I have strengthened mine massively through attending networking events and reaching out to clubs for voluntary opportunities.”

Looking Ahead

Ashley has mapped out a clear career path for the future. Within the next year, he aims to secure a full-time role as a Recruitment Analyst or Performance Analyst, before progressing to Head of Recruitment within five years. His long-term goal is to become a Technical Director, continuing his development through the FA’s Technical Director course.

“I am looking forward to challenging myself and achieving these goals in a timely manner,” he said.

Ashley’s journey highlights how passion, persistence and education can open doors to a thriving career in elite football.

Explore our MSc Performance Analysis in Football course to start your journey in elite football today.