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How do I get a job in sports

I will graduate with my master's in mental health counseling and would love a job in a university/college setting where I work with student-athletes. I want to know where can I find opportunities to work in sports.

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Subject: Career question for you

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Jesse’s Answer

Eunice,

Just a friendly nudge to consider joining the Association of Applied Sport Psychology if you haven't done so already. It's a fantastic platform for networking and gaining insights into the field. Attending national and regional conferences could also open up a world of opportunities for you, allowing you to learn more and connect with like-minded professionals.

Don't forget to check out the Job Openings board on the AASP website. It's updated frequently and could be your ticket to a fulfilling career - https://careers.appliedsportpsych.org/jobs/job_type/full/

Here's a piece of promising news: The NCAA is moving towards making it mandatory for schools to offer mental health support to their student athletes. This means there will be an increasing demand for licensed mental health providers across the country in the upcoming years.

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn. With 15 years of experience as a mental performance consultant in college and pro sports, I'd be more than happy to share my insights and experiences with you.

Stay positive and keep pushing forward!

- Jesse Michel
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Olivia’s Answer

Hi Eunice! This is a great question. I was actually a Sports Business major in college and had similar questions. A great resource that I used to apply for jobs/internships in sports was Teamwork Online. It is a great way to look for jobs only in the Sports industry and get in contact with those employers. I would also recommend networking with people at your current university and getting in touch with their connections. What I found is the sports world, especially the collegiate sports world is quite small. Making those connections is a great way to learn about job openings or get your name out there.
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Alison’s Answer

If you are currently a student working on your Master's I would suggest reaching out to your schools athletic department. They may have opportunities for you to volunteer to get your foot in the door and gain experience before you complete your Master's. Best of luck!
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Kim’s Answer

With your master's in mental health counseling, you're well-prepared to support student-athletes in a university environment. When seeking sports opportunities, consider exploring specialized job boards like TeamWork Online, NCAA Market, or the career sections of university athletic departments. Additionally, networking with professionals in the field and reaching out to university counseling centers or athletic departments can provide valuable insights and connections. By actively engaging with job boards and networking, you can effectively break into the sports industry and open up exciting career possibilities.
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Morgan’s Answer

Hi Eunice, my husband works in this field and suggested the following:

Join the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA): https://nacda.com/
- Their annual convention is next week in Las Vegas: https://nacda.com/sports/2018/7/17/convention-nacda-convention-html.aspx
Join the Clinical/Counseling Sport Psychology Association (CCSPA): https://ccsportpsy.org/. He said their Big Sky conference is an important one. Their site also has a jobs board.
Join the Association for Applied Sport Psychology: https://appliedsportpsych.org/
NCAA job market: https://ncaamarket.ncaa.org/jobs/browse
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Cory’s Answer

Begin as early as you can to build a resume that matches your career goal. So, I would join any local or school sporting event as a volunteer. I know Highschool sports have everything from media, journalism, and trainers to help with the sports teams. Volunteer for one of these roles or multiple during the year with multiple sports. A lot of colleges will give grants and scholarships to volunteers to assist their sports programs. Helping with Equipment, loading and unloading gear and being in those situations allow you to learn more from the people in the career you are aiming for.
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Chinyere’s Answer

Hello Eunice,

1. Research job opportunities at universities and colleges: Many universities and colleges have specific roles for mental health counselors or sports psychologists to work with their student-athletes. Check the career pages of these institutions for any available positions.

2. Network with professionals in the sports industry: Attend industry events, join professional organizations related to sports counseling, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to learn about potential job openings and gain insight into the field.

3. Gain relevant experience through internships or volunteer work: Look for internship programs or volunteer opportunities at universities, colleges, or local sports organizations where you can gain experience working with student-athletes.

4. Consider further education or certification: Depending on the specific requirements of the positions you are interested in, consider obtaining additional certifications or training related to sports counseling or mental health in athletes.

5. Utilize job search websites: Websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and HigherEdJobs often have listings for mental health counseling positions within university athletic departments.

6. Contact athletic departments directly: Reach out to athletic departments at universities and colleges that interest you to inquire about potential job openings or express your interest in working with their student-athletes.

7. Be proactive in your job search: In addition to applying for advertised positions, consider reaching out directly to relevant contacts within university athletic departments to express your interest in working with student-athletes and inquire about potential opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.

Best wishes.
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Patrick’s Answer

Eunice, my son is planning to major in Sports Management and land a job in this field is achievable with a strategic approach, combining relevant education, experience, and networking. Here's an enhanced guide on how to follow this path:

Your master's degree in mental health counseling is a strong asset for roles supporting student-athletes' mental health. Universities and colleges understand the unique pressures student-athletes face and value comprehensive support services, including mental health counseling. Your education equips you to address key issues like stress management and performance anxiety, vital for student-athletes' success.

To improve your job prospects, gaining relevant experience is crucial. You should consider internships or volunteer roles within athletic departments, counseling centers, or sports psychology clinics. These opportunities will allow you to apply your skills practically, network, and gain insight into sports organizations' operations.

Networking is key in the sports industry, as many jobs aren't widely advertised. Attending events related to sports psychology or athletic administration can help connect with industry professionals. Joining professional associations like the Association for Applied Sport Psychology or the National Collegiate Athletic Association can also offer networking opportunities and job listings.

Creating a professional online presence can also be beneficial. A website or portfolio showcasing your experience, skills, and qualifications, and using platforms like LinkedIn to connect with sports industry professionals and stay updated on job openings and trends can be helpful.

Reaching out to athletic departments or counseling centers at universities or colleges you are interested in is another good strategy. Asking about job openings, internships, or volunteer roles, and expressing your passion for supporting student-athletes' mental health can help build relationships and increase your chances of consideration for future roles.

During job applications and interviews, you should highlight your transferable skills. Emphasizing your ability to work with diverse groups, understanding student-athletes' unique challenges, commitment to confidentiality and ethics, and ability to collaborate with coaches and support staff is important.

Eunice, breaking into the sports industry can be challenging, but with dedication, persistence, and a strategic approach, you can increase your chances of securing a rewarding career supporting student-athletes in a university or college setting.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Eunice,

To get a job in sports with a master’s degree in mental health counseling and a desire to work with student-athletes in a university/college setting, consider the following steps:

Networking: Connect with professionals currently working in the field of sports counseling. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations such as the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) or the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP), and engage in online communities related to sports psychology and mental health. Building relationships with these individuals can lead to job opportunities or valuable insights into the hiring process.

Education and Certification: Pursue additional certifications that demonstrate your expertise in sports psychology and mental health. The AASP offers several certifications, including Certified Consultant (CC-AASP) and Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). These credentials can make your application stand out to potential employers.

University Career Services: Contact the career services department at universities and colleges you are interested in working for. They may have job listings or be able to provide information about upcoming openings or informational interviews. Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific position, highlighting your relevant experience and education.

Volunteer Work: Offer your services as a volunteer counselor for local sports teams or organizations, such as high schools or youth leagues. This can provide valuable experience working with athletes and demonstrate your commitment to the field. Additionally, it may lead to referrals or connections within the community that could lead to paid opportunities down the line.

Internships: Apply for internships within athletic departments at universities or colleges during your graduate studies. These opportunities can offer hands-on experience working with student-athletes under the supervision of experienced professionals, providing valuable knowledge and skills that will benefit you in your future career search.

Authoritative References Used:

National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) - https://www.nata.org/
Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) - https://www.appliedsportpsychology.org/
American Psychological Association (APA) - Career Resources for Students & Early Career Professionals - https://www.apa.org/careers/students

God Bless You,
JC.
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Jaquan’s Answer

Breaking into the sports industry can be competitive but rewarding, offering a range of roles from sports management, marketing, journalism, to coaching, physiotherapy, and more. Here are some steps you can follow to enhance your chances of landing a job in sports:

1. Identify Your Interests and Skills

The sports industry is vast, so it's crucial to identify what area you're interested in. Do you want to work in sports management, sports marketing, sports journalism, sports medicine, or perhaps as a coach or trainer? Once you've decided, evaluate the skills you need for that particular area and work on building them.

2. Get Relevant Education

While it's not always required, having a relevant degree can give you an edge. Consider studying sports management, sports science, sports journalism, or a related field, depending on your area of interest. Specialized programs often provide industry-specific knowledge and networking opportunities.

3. Gain Experience

Hands-on experience is valuable in the sports industry. Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in your chosen field. Even roles in local sports clubs or school sports departments can provide useful experience.

4. Network

Networking is crucial in the sports industry. Attend sports conferences, seminars, and events to meet industry professionals. Join online forums and social media groups related to your field of interest. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals for informational interviews or advice.

5. Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with the latest news and trends in the sports industry. This knowledge can make you stand out in interviews and help you understand the industry better.

6. Build a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Highlight your education, experience, skills, and passion for sports in your resume. Tailor it to each job application, emphasizing the most relevant aspects. A strong LinkedIn profile can also help you network and be found by recruiters.

7. Apply for Jobs

Start applying for jobs in your chosen field. Look for entry-level positions if you're just starting out. Don't be discouraged by rejections - keep applying and improving your application materials.

Remember, persistence and passion are key in the sports industry. It might take time, but with dedication and hard work, you can land a job in sports.
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Savyata’s Answer

Hey Eunice,

Getting a job in the sports industry can be competitive, but with the right approach and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some steps to help you get started:

Identify your interests and strengths: Consider your interests, skills, and strengths to determine which areas of the sports industry you're most passionate about and best suited for. The sports industry offers a wide range of career paths, including coaching, sports management, marketing, journalism, sports medicine, sports science, and more.

Gain relevant education and experience: Obtain a degree or certification in a field related to sports management, business, journalism, kinesiology, marketing, or another relevant discipline. Gain practical experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs in the sports industry to build your skills and network.

Network with industry professionals: Attend sports events, conferences, job fairs, and networking events to connect with professionals in the sports industry. Join industry associations, clubs, or online forums related to your areas of interest to meet like-minded individuals and learn about job opportunities.

Build a strong resume and online presence: Create a professional resume that highlights your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Develop a strong online presence by building a LinkedIn profile, creating a personal website or portfolio, and showcasing your work, projects, or contributions related to the sports industry.

Tailor your job search: Research companies, organizations, teams, leagues, or agencies in the sports industry that align with your career goals and interests. Tailor your job search to target specific roles or companies that you're passionate about and qualified for.

Apply for internships or entry-level positions: Start your career in the sports industry by applying for internships, entry-level positions, or volunteer opportunities that provide valuable experience and exposure to different aspects of the industry. Be open to starting at a lower level and working your way up over time.

Stay informed and adaptable: Keep up with industry trends, developments, and news in the sports industry to stay informed and adaptable. Be willing to learn new skills, adapt to changes, and explore emerging opportunities within the industry.

Demonstrate your passion and dedication: Show your passion for sports and dedication to your career goals through your actions, attitude, and work ethic. Demonstrate your willingness to go above and beyond, take initiative, and contribute positively to the sports industry.

Seek feedback and continuous improvement: Seek feedback from mentors, peers, or industry professionals to improve your skills, resume, and job search strategy. Continuously seek opportunities for learning, growth, and professional development to advance your career in the sports industry.

These are some helpful tips for your career path
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Spencer’s Answer

Hi Eunice! Sports is definitely an exciting field to work in! As a first step, perhaps you could reach out to sports management professionals at your university and discuss potential opportunities. Additionally, you could also network with sports management professionals at other colleges and universities to look for potential opportunities.
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William’s Answer

These are good sourc s to search for jobs in sports:
- GlobalJobs
- SpotyJobs
- UKJobs
- JobsInSports
- Indeed
- LinkedIn
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