Sports management is an option for students who are active sportspersons, connoisseurs, or simply passionate about it. Broadly speaking, sports management pertains to managing the commercial and administration side of the industry. It is an ideal career for people who want to follow their sports aspirations without staying in the field. A career in this field offers a wonderful opportunity to work as an insider in the industry.
Emerging career
It has not yet become generic like other popular educational degrees or regular corporate jobs. It requires professionals with specific skills and expertise. So, there is less competition, and will set one apart from one’s peers. Sports is an evergreen industry, and is only growing with time. Moreover, there are more than 8,000 sports being played in the world, at regional, national and international levels. This, naturally, translates into more career opportunities. The industry is unlikely to face economic slowdown in the near future. A look at why you can consider opting for a career in this field:
Jobs
Sports managers are required to handle finance, marketing, contracts, event and facility management, sponsorships, communication, public relations, training, food and health, legal advisory, and basically any activity that calls for professional governance of sports and players. There are numerous options, allowing for vertical and horizontal professional growth.
Perks
Managers are expected to constantly be on their toes. It can be a demanding job, especially during tournaments. Moreover, the supply of sports managers still does not meet the current demand. Hence, you can look forward to a handsome package, as well as retirement benefits.
Sports managers often need to accompany players or teams to various matches and media events across the world. This means that they get to travel often, watch live matches, explore new places, enjoy posh accommodations and delectable cuisine — all of these full paid by the company. One gets to have access to exclusive facilities, and also work closely with high-profile clients and celebrities. The industry offers aspirants adequate opportunities to meet people from various walks of life. This helps build strong professional networks, and gain exposure to sports management of teams and associations at an international level. These factors add to one’s work experience, making for a great resume when applying for jobs abroad.
Entrepreneurship
After working for a while as a salaried professional, one can become an entrepreneur, be one’s own boss, and have the creative liberty to convert ideas into action. From launching one’s business such as celebrity sports management agency, sports talent hunt agency, publicity agency, and more, opportunities abound, depending on one’s skill sets.
The writer is Director, Symbiosis School of Sports Sciences (SSSS)
