Ep. 4 - “From J-League to Future Data Scientist”
with Taketo Horigome - CU Boulder
Summary
In this conversation, Taketo Horigome shares his inspiring journey from a young soccer player in Japan to a rising data scientist at the University of Colorado Boulder. He discusses the challenges he faced, including serious injuries, and how they shaped his determination and work ethic. Taketo emphasizes the importance of cultural values such as respect and humility in his upbringing, and how these lessons have influenced his approach to both sports and data science. He also highlights the significance of using data in sports to enhance performance and the need for effective communication between data analysts and athletes. The conversation concludes with Taketo's reflections on leadership and his predictions for the future of data in sports.
Top Insights
Early Dedication - Taketo's commitment to soccer began at a young age, waking up at 5:30 AM to train before school, demonstrating his dedication and work ethic.
Overcoming Challenges - Despite a significant injury at age 10, Taketo's determination to return to soccer and improve his skills highlights his resilience.
Data-Driven Transformation - Meeting a sports analyst at the Japanese national team sparked Taketo's interest in data science, showing how data can transform understanding and performance in sports.
Cultural Influence - Taketo emphasizes the importance of respect and humility taught in Japanese culture, which has shaped his character and approach to sports and life.
Bridging the Gap - Taketo's role in bridging the gap between data science and sports highlights the growing importance of data in enhancing athletic performance and decision-making.
Future Aspirations - Taketo's transition from soccer to pursuing a career in data science, particularly in sports, underscores his adaptability and forward-thinking mindset.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:22 Journey in Soccer and Data Science
10:09 Cultural Insights and Life Lessons
17:16 Transition to Data Science and Projects
26:40 Future of Data in Sports and Personal Reflections
31:06 "Behind the Data"