Behind every successful sporting event or team lies a framework of planning, strategic decision-making, and effective execution known as sport management. Thinking of sport management as the business side of the sports industry, it includes many areas such as:
- ethics and law
- management and organization
- sports diversity
- sales and fundraising
- marketing and business
- facilities and event operation
One of the most exciting aspects of sport management is the variety of career paths available. From front-office roles with professional sports teams to positions within sports marketing agencies, there's no shortage of opportunities to explore. Are you interested in turning your passion for sports into a successful and exciting career? Here are some possible opportunities and career paths for students studying sports management.
Common career paths
Athletic administrator
Athletic administrators oversee athletic and sports programs at schools, colleges, and other organizations. They work closely with students and coaches. They may work with equipment management, finances, scheduling, hiring, and coaching.
Account manager
Serving as the liaison between companies and their clients, sports account managers play a crucial role in managing client relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring the successful execution of sports events.
Event coordinator
Event coordinators are responsible for many aspects of event planning. They have responsibilities such as scheduling, budgeting and finance, client communication, marketing planning, and policy enforcement.
Facilities manager
Facilities managers are responsible for making sure their facilities are safe and prepared for all events. This includes building maintenance, equipment, staff, and security.
Sports marketing specialist
Sports marketing specialists can work for marketing firms or sports teams directly. Their job is to create unique advertising and marketing campaigns. They also help promote sporting events, teams, merchandise, and ticket sales.
Emerging career paths in sport management
The sport management industry is growing, with many new opportunities tying into this degree. One area of growth is through sport development and peace. This area of sport management focuses on how physical activity can support individuals and communities across the globe. Some opportunities in this growing area include:
- Professional sport organization's community foundations and philanthropic foundations, like the Minnesota Fastbreak Foundation
- International and local nonprofit organizations
- Intergovernmental organizations, such as the United Nations or World Health Organization
- Public sector areas like the U.S. Department of State Sport Diplomacy Program or the U.S. Agency for International Development
- Development agencies like GIZ
Employers and skills for sport management graduates
There are a multitude of different organizations and companies that you could work for with a background in sport management. Some potential types of employers include but are not limited to:
- Arenas or stadiums
- Colleges or universities
- Golf courses
- High schools
- News outlets, tv or radio stations
- Professional athletes and sports teams
- Sporting goods manufacturers
- Marketing firms
- Youth programs or camps
Specific employers of our alumni include:
- Golden Valley Country Club
- Lifetime Fitness
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Minnesota Wild
- Minnesota Twins
- Minnesota Vikings
- Minnesota United FC
- Nike
- Podium Sports Marketing
- SportsEngine
- Target
- University of Minnesota
- Skyhawks
In the world of sport management, there are a number of skills and qualifications that can help give you an extra advantage and set you apart in this field. Strong communication, organization, leadership, problem solving, analytical thinking, global perspectives, and adaptability are some of the many important skills that will help you advance your career.
The School of Kinesiology advantage
Within the School of Kinesiology, sport management students are able to gain these skills and knowledge inside and outside the classroom. Students will have hands-on experiences in research, internships, job shadowing, networking, and studying abroad to further prepare for the future.
There are endless amounts of careers in sport management. The skills you learn in our programs transfer to other industries and positions well, so you’ll always be prepared for the next step in your career. Check out more careers in sport management to see what might be the best fit for you.
Do any of these career paths interest you? Learn more about our sport management major to set yourself up for a great future.