A degree in sports management can equip a professional for many different types of jobs in the sports industry. Some positions deal closely with college and professional athletes, while others deal with sports venue and/or retail management. While some may consider a past in athletics or even a general interest in sports as a prerequisite for these types of professions, that in not necessary so. Many very successful sports managers do not have a history of sports participation or even a strong loyalty to any college or professional sports program. More likely, a professional in sports management is one who has a grasp on sound business concepts and an ability to function as a leader with problem solving and decision-making capabilities. Here are three major areas of sports management one may pursue after completing a degree in sports management.
Business
Many sports fans realize early on that their physical attributes will not be enough to afford them the opportunity to enjoy a career as a professional athlete. Thankfully, sports programs at all levels require many different types of professionals to keep them competitive. Some of the most important roles within collegiate and professional sports organizations are filled by people who possess strong business leadership qualities. As important as a versatile power forward is to an NBA team, so is an accounting manager and marketing director. While all sports teams need strong management at multiple levels, one of the best ways to land an exciting job within an organization is to bring solid business knowledge based in a high-quality business education.
Education
Successful careers in sports begin with a passion for competition and a desire to perform at one's highest level. The same can be said for business leadership. A competent undergraduate degree will harness a student's drive and equip her with the skills needed to understand and thrive as a young professional or graduate student. An online MBA in sports management is a wonderful complement to an undergraduate degree in business as it builds on the foundation of business principles initiated at the bachelor's level and goes farther in developing a student's leadership skills. An excellent online MBA is one which provides flexibility and convenience for the working professional. Concepts learned in the virtual classroom should begin to affect the professional's work environment in a positive way. Students who enjoy the world of academia often find opportunities to work at the collegiate level when they begin a career. Sports managers have many opportunities to work at the collegiate level as coaches, scouts, sports administrators, sports program representatives, and venue managers. Professionals with a burden for elementary and secondary education can pursue positions as educators and coaches to children and teenagers as well.
Representation
One of the most lucrative positions in sports managers is that of sports representation. Sports agents can represent individual athletes, sports programs, and retail organizations. Besides attractive annual salaries, many sports agents also have access to bonuses and commissions as well. With a median salary averaging nearly $60,000 per year, many sports agents are drawing six-figure salaries while enjoying a lifestyle which includes travel and interaction with many of the world's top athletes and entertainers.
These three areas do not even begin to scratch the surface of where a sports manager can land within the industry. Although sports management is a highly-competitive field, many professionals find it incredibly rewarding.
