How To Become A Sports Manager for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Sports teams function like enterprises, depending on business strategies and decisions to make the operations profitable and sustainable. At the helm of a team's business direction is the sports manager, who is chiefly responsible for handling logistics, team schedules, merchandise, and endorsement deals, among many others. They are of utmost importance to high-profile clubs, as the top Eurobean football teams make an average of 50 critical sports management decisions annually.

This article explores the significance and responsibilities of sports managers and provides a detailed step-by-step guide on becoming one. Additionally, it offers information in key areas that aspiring managers will need to know, such as education requirements, possible career paths, salary projections, and job outlook.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Sports Manager for 2025

A sports manager oversees the business and operational aspects of sports organizations, teams, or individual athletes.
57% of sports team managers in the United States have a bachelor's degree, 17% hold an associate degree, 12% have a high school diploma, and 7% earned a master's degree.
The employment of sports, entertainment, and recreation managers is anticipated to increase by 11% from 2023 to 2033.
There are currently over 4,000 job openings for sports management positions in the United States.
Sports managers take home an average annual salary of $132,810 and a median annual salary of $84,900.
The US states that offer the highest average annual salaries to sports agents are Connecticut ($190,400), New York ($153,520), New Jersey ($152,300), California ($136,450), and Idaho ($115,740).

What does a sports manager do?
How does one become a sports manager?
What are the degrees needed to become a sports manager?
What are the skills needed to become a successful sports manager?
What are the different specializations of sports managers?
Do you need certifications to work as a sports manager?
What are the career paths of sports management graduates?
How is digital innovation reshaping sports management careers?
How Can Short-Term Training Programs Enhance a Sports Manager’s Career?
Do I Need an Advanced Business Degree for Success in Sports Management?
How can professional networking and mentorship boost a sports manager's career?
How Can Advanced Business Education Propel a Sports Manager’s Career?
Can advanced doctoral education bolster a sports manager’s strategic capabilities?
How Can Global Opportunities Expand a Sports Manager’s Horizons?
Can a one year online MBA accelerate your sports management career?
How Can Sports Managers Effectively Manage Crises?
How important is financial literacy in sports management?
What is the job outlook of sports managers?
What is the average salary of sports managers?
What are the biggest challenges faced by sports managers?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Sports Manager

What does a sports manager do?

A sports manager oversees the business and operational aspects of sports organizations, teams, or individual athletes. Their responsibilities vary depending on the setting but generally include managing finances, contracts, marketing, logistics, and relationships with stakeholders. Here’s a detailed breakdown of a sports manager's key roles:

Contract Management: Sports managers handle the negotiation and management of contracts for athletes, coaches, and staff. This includes securing endorsement deals and ensuring compliance with league regulations.
Scheduling: They are responsible for creating and organizing schedules for team practices, games, and travel arrangements.
Public Relations: Acting as the spokesperson for the team, sports managers represent their organizations to the media and public. They coordinate press conferences, manage media relations, and handle public appearances for athletes.
Budgeting and Financial Management: Sports managers plan budgets that account for revenues, operating costs, salaries, and expenses related to travel, equipment, and facilities. They also oversee ticket sales and merchandising efforts. Aspirants who want to focus on this area more than sports management can pursue the most affordable online finance degrees.
Event Planning: They organize promotional events, fundraisers, and community outreach activities to enhance the team's visibility and engagement with fans.
Team Operations: In collaboration with coaches and trainers, sports managers ensure that athletes have the necessary resources for training and competition. They may also be involved in hiring coaching staff or recruiting new players.
Marketing and Sponsorship: Sports managers work on marketing strategies to promote their teams or athletes, including securing sponsorships and managing brand partnerships. Aspirants who would rather focus on marketing than sports management may want to explore the marketing degree requirements of their desired programs.
Compliance: At the collegiate level, they often serve as compliance directors to ensure adherence to NCAA regulations and other governing bodies' rules.
Community Engagement: They may engage with local communities through outreach programs or by organizing youth sports initiatives to foster relationships between the team and its supporters.
Miscellaneous Duties: Depending on their specific role, sports managers may also manage facilities or recreational programs, oversee athletic departments in schools, or coordinate activities at fitness centers.

How does one become a sports manager?

Becoming a sports manager involves a combination of education, practical experience, skill development, and networking. The role also necessitates communication skills since these managers often interact with players, team owners, and other parties. By following these steps and continuously learning about the industry, aspiring managers can position themselves for success in this dynamic field:

Establish a Core Educational Background: The journey for aspiring sports managers begins with earning a bachelor’s degree in sports management, business administration, or a related field. The option to pursue a master’s degree further refines their qualifications for high-level leadership positions. Programs offering robust industry connections and internship opportunities provide a significant career advantage. A well-rounded education builds a core understanding of marketing, operations, and finance.
Accumulate Practical Experience: Gaining hands-on experience through internship programs, volunteer work, and similar activities is critical for aspiring sports managers. The immersion allows them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, build problem-solving skills, and obtain a comprehensive understanding of what truly happens in sports management outside the classroom.
Master Essential Skills: Sports managers must master essential skills, including leadership proficiency, effective communication techniques, and analytical thinking capabilities, to expertly manage teams, resolve complex issues, and implement data-driven strategies. Highly developed interpersonal skills facilitate productive collaboration with athletes, coaches, and stakeholders, while technical expertise, including budgeting and data analysis, is indispensable for managing business operations.
Develop a Robust Professional Network: Aspiring sports managers should actively engage in industry conferences, join relevant professional organizations, and strategically utilize professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with established industry professionals and explore career opportunities. Networking provides access to invaluable mentorship, promising job leads, and crucial insights into evolving industry trends. It also creates opportunities for valuable collaborations and strategic partnerships.
Enhance Expertise with Targeted Certifications: Earning targeted certifications, such as the Certified Sports Management Professional (CSMP), best nutritionist certification online, or those specializing in event management and data analytics, enhances the professional profile of aspiring sports managers in a competitive job market. Certifications demonstrate a dedicated commitment to ongoing professional development and provide specialized expertise, which is particularly valuable in niche areas such as esports or sponsorship management.
Launch Career with Entry-Level Positions: Entry-level positions, such as marketing assistant or event planner, offer valuable practical training and a strong launchpad for career advancement. These roles provide valuable insights into industry operations and help aspiring managers refine essential practical skills. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and clear leadership potential in these roles is crucial for career progression within the field.
Maintain Awareness of Evolving Industry Trends: Maintaining awareness of evolving developments in technology, data analytics, and globalization is essential for aspiring sports managers in a rapidly changing industry. Recognizing and understanding key trends such as virtual fan engagement and wearable technology underscores the need to anticipate future market demands. Subscribing to relevant industry publications and actively participating in webinars are effective methods for staying informed.
Demonstrate Unwavering Commitment and Adaptability: Entering the competitive field of sports management can present challenges, but unwavering commitment, genuine passion for the industry, and consistent adaptability are essential for achieving long-term career success. Aspiring managers should maintain a clear focus on their established career goals, actively solicit feedback from mentors and colleagues, and readily adapt their strategies as necessary to effectively navigate challenges and thrive in this dynamic and rewarding career path.

What are the degrees needed to become a sports manager?

Degree selection should align with individual career goals and specific interests within the diverse field of sports management. While an associate degree can offer a faster entry point, a bachelor's degree is the typical starting point for most professionals in this field. Advanced degrees, such as master's or doctoral programs, enhance qualifications for leadership positions and specialized roles within the sports industry.

Associate Degree: An Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) in Sports Management can provide an initial entry point into the field. These two-year programs typically cover fundamental sports management concepts, including operations, marketing, and budgeting.
Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in sports management is the most common educational path for aspiring sports managers. This four-year program offers in-depth knowledge of areas such as sports law, marketing, finance, and communications, preparing graduates for various roles within the sports industry, such as athletic directors or operations managers. Related fields like business administration or marketing are also viable options for undergraduate study.
Master's Degree: Individuals seeking advanced positions often pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Sports Management. An MBA provides broader business expertise applicable to high-level management roles, while a Master of Sports Management offers specialized knowledge directly relevant to the sports industry. These programs generally require a bachelor's degree for admission and typically take one to two years to complete.
Doctoral Degrees: For those aspiring to top-tier leadership positions or academic careers, a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Sports Management may be pursued. These advanced degrees emphasize research and theoretical aspects of sports management, preparing graduates for roles such as university professors or high-level executives within sports organizations.

According to Zippia, 57% of sports team managers in the United States have a bachelor's degree, 17% hold an associate degree, 12% have a high school diploma, and 7% earned a master's degree.

What are the skills needed to become a successful sports manager?

When it comes to the best careers for masters in sports management to pursue, you have several options. But whatever it is, there's a diverse mix of skills needed to successfully enhance team performance and drive revenues. From strong leadership to exceptional communication, these managers need to be on top of team welfare and operations to benefit from the opportunities they encounter.

Leadership: Strong leadership is critical for sports managers, as they are responsible for guiding teams and motivating athletes and staff. Effective leaders create a positive team culture, set clear goals, and make tough decisions that benefit the organization.
Communication: Excellent communication skills are vital in sports management. Managers must convey information clearly to athletes, coaches, sponsors, and the media. This includes both verbal and written communication, as well as active listening to foster collaboration and understanding.
Financial Management: A solid understanding of financial principles is necessary for budgeting, forecasting, and negotiating contracts. Sports managers need to manage resources effectively and optimize revenue streams through sponsorships and marketing initiatives.
Strategic Thinking: Successful sports managers must think strategically to identify growth opportunities and anticipate challenges. This involves analyzing data and trends to develop innovative strategies that give their organizations a competitive edge.
Adaptability: The sports industry is dynamic, requiring managers to adapt quickly to changes such as scheduling adjustments or regulatory updates. Being flexible and open to learning helps managers navigate unexpected challenges effectively.
Problem Solving: Strong problem-solving skills are essential for addressing issues that arise in daily operations or during events. Sports managers must be able to assess situations critically and develop effective solutions promptly.
Networking: Building relationships within the sports industry is crucial for success. Networking with coaches, athletes, sponsors, and media professionals can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.
Marketing Skills: Understanding marketing strategies is important for promoting teams and securing sponsorships. Sports managers should be adept at creating marketing campaigns that attract fans and enhance brand visibility. Those who want to further sharpen their skills on social media can take affordable online social media marketing degree programs.
Organizational Skills: Effective organizational skills help sports managers manage schedules, travel arrangements, and event logistics efficiently. Being organized ensures that all aspects of operations run smoothly.
Data Analysis: In today’s data-driven environment, sports managers need to analyze performance metrics, fan engagement statistics, and market trends. Proficiency in data analysis allows them to make informed decisions that impact their organization’s success. Aspirants are more interested in data analysis than sports management might want to look into data analytics online programs.

What are the different specializations of sports managers?

Like fast track MBA programs, sports management offers a diverse range of specializations, enabling professionals to concentrate on distinct areas within the industry. Here are some of the key specializations available for sports managers:

Sports Marketing: This specialization centers on developing marketing strategies specific to the sports sector, including sponsorship management, fan engagement, and promotional campaigns. Professionals in this field work to increase brand visibility and generate revenue through targeted marketing efforts.
Event Management: Specializing in event management prepares professionals to plan, organize, and coordinate sports events, from local competitions to major international tournaments. This role involves overseeing event logistics, budgeting, and ensuring a seamless experience for participants and attendees.
Sports Law: Sports law professionals are experts in the legal aspects of the industry, focusing on contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution. Sports managers with this expertise often serve as legal advisors or compliance officers within sports organizations.
Athlete Development: This specialization emphasizes the overall growth of athletes, including career counseling, financial education, and personal development. Professionals in this field work closely with athletes to guide their careers both on and off the field, ensuring a balanced and sustainable trajectory.
High-Performance Coaching: Focusing on improving athletic performance through coaching, kinesiology, and sports psychology, this specialization prepares sports managers to lead teams and athletes in achieving peak performance. It is particularly suited for those with a background in exercise science or related fields.
Sports Analytics: Sports analytics involves using data analysis to assess performance metrics, market trends, and fan behavior. Managers in this field leverage analytics to make data-driven decisions that impact team strategies, player development, and business operations.
Facility Management: Professionals in this specialization oversee the operations of sports facilities such as stadiums and arenas. Their responsibilities include managing maintenance, ensuring safety protocols are in place, and coordinating event logistics to ensure the smooth operation of the venue.
Corporate Partnerships: Corporate partnership specialists focus on creating and maintaining strategic relationships between sports organizations and corporate sponsors. These professionals negotiate deals that benefit both parties, driving brand exposure and financial growth for the sports organization. Sports managers who might want to advance their education in this area can pursue AACSB accredited online MBA programs, which deepen one's knowledge and skills in business.
Recreation Management: This specialization focuses on managing recreational sports programs and facilities in community settings or educational institutions. The goal is to promote participation in sports and physical activities among a wide range of populations, encouraging a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Esports Management: As the esports industry continues to expand, this specialization prepares managers to address the unique challenges of competitive gaming. It covers aspects such as event organization, team management, and marketing strategies within the esports sector.

Do you need certifications to work as a sports manager?

Most positions in sports management do not mandate certification. However, having relevant certifications can make candidates more attractive to employers and indicate a dedication to professional development. Certain roles, particularly those involving athlete representation, may require specific certifications. For instance, sports agents must be certified by the leagues they wish to work with and may need to comply with state regulations.

The most popular certifications for sports managers include the following:

Certified Sports Manager (CSM): Offered by GAQM, the CSM certification focuses on developing competencies in sports management, including team and facility management. It covers essential areas such as policy planning and maintaining a safe sporting environment.
Sports Management Specialist (SMS): Provided by the International Fitness Professionals Association (IFPA), this certification emphasizes marketing and management strategies tailored for the sports industry. It requires completing an online course followed by an exam.
Specialized Certifications from Sports Management Worldwide: These include certifications in areas such as hockey analytics, athlete marketing, and event management. They are designed to provide specialized knowledge that can enhance career prospects.
Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM): This designation validates knowledge and skills related to managing sports fields and facilities, focusing on maintenance and operational efficiency.
Certificates in Sports Law & Risk Management: These programs focus on legal issues within the sports industry, preparing managers to navigate contracts and compliance effectively.
Event Management Certification: This certification prepares individuals for managing sports events, covering logistics, budgeting, and coordination strategies essential for successful event execution.

What are the career paths of sports management graduates?

Sports management graduates have plenty of possible careers, considering the breadth of their competencies. They can find a variety of management positions in sports clubs and media. In addition, related roles outside the sports sphere are also available to them. The most prominent career paths include the following:

Sports Marketing and Sponsorship Manager: These professionals develop and implement marketing strategies, manage sponsorship agreements, design promotional campaigns, and build brand partnerships to enhance visibility and drive revenue for sports organizations.
Event Coordinator: These individuals plan and execute sporting events, including tournaments, matches, and fan engagement activities, managing logistics, budgets, and schedules to ensure smooth operations and meet stakeholder expectations.
Athletic Director: They oversee sports programs at educational institutions, managing budgets, hiring coaches, ensuring compliance with athletic regulations, and fostering a supportive environment for student-athletes.
Sports Agent: These professionals represent athletes in contract negotiations, secure sponsorship deals, and provide career planning advice, requiring strong negotiation skills and industry knowledge.
Facility Manager: They manage the operation and maintenance of sports venues, including stadiums, arenas, and recreational complexes, overseeing staff, ensuring safety compliance, and coordinating events.
Sports Analyst or Data Scientist: These analysts utilize data to assess player performance, team strategies, and market trends, providing valuable insights for teams and organizations seeking competitive advantages and operational optimization.
Recreation Program Director: They organize programs that promote participation in physical activities within community or recreational settings, often collaborating with local governments, nonprofits, or private facilities.
Esports Manager: They manage competitive gaming teams, organize tournaments, and develop targeted marketing strategies within the rapidly growing esports industry.
Sports Media and Communications Specialist: These specialists handle public relations, manage social media presence, and create engaging content for fans, shaping a team’s image and managing communication with media and the public.
Sports Law Consultant: These consultants provide legal expertise on contract negotiation, intellectual property rights, and compliance with sports regulations, often serving as advisors for teams and athletes.

Those who want to help athletes as individuals and on a more personal level can specialize in sport psychology instead. Being a sport psychologist is one of the best careers to pursue with a sport psychology masters degree.

How is digital innovation reshaping sports management careers?

In today’s fast-paced sports industry, digital tools and data analytics are fundamentally altering managerial strategies. Modern sports managers leverage advanced software for performance analysis, fan engagement, and operational efficiency. This technological shift requires professionals to adapt by acquiring skills in digital marketing, analytics, and virtual collaboration. Continuous education through programs such as the online sports management degree can provide a competitive edge by offering specialized training that aligns with these emerging industry demands.

How Can Short-Term Training Programs Enhance a Sports Manager’s Career?

In a competitive field where rapid industry changes are the norm, practical training options can provide a timely edge. Professionals can supplement their formal education with intensive, focused learning opportunities that address current market demands. For example, enrolling in short certificate programs that pay well allows in-depth exploration of specialized areas such as digital marketing, data analytics, and strategic operations. These programs deliver targeted skills, enabling sports managers to navigate evolving challenges and capitalize on emerging trends while accelerating career advancement.

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Advanced business education can provide sports managers with strategic insights that complement industry-specific skills. Earning an MBA or similar graduate qualification equips professionals with financial acumen, leadership strategies, and organizational management techniques that are invaluable in navigating complex sports enterprises. In a competitive market, these credentials can enhance career advancement and decision-making effectiveness. For those seeking flexibility and cost efficiency, pursuing an online MBA cheap program may offer a strategic pathway to acquiring essential business competencies while managing ongoing professional responsibilities.

How can professional networking and mentorship boost a sports manager's career?

Robust professional networking and targeted mentorship are critical for unlocking opportunities without relying solely on traditional advancement paths. Engaging with industry associations, conferences, and digital communities provides access to real-time insights and peer-to-peer learning that refine strategic decision-making. Mentorship from seasoned professionals offers practical advice on navigating complex challenges, while leveraging advanced educational programs further expands these networks. For example, enrolling in a top online MBA not only imparts advanced business skills but also connects emerging sports managers with industry leaders, accelerating career growth in an increasingly competitive environment.

How Can Advanced Business Education Propel a Sports Manager’s Career?

Advanced business education provides sports managers with enhanced strategic and financial skills geared toward effective decision-making. This education sharpens leadership abilities and fosters a broader understanding of market dynamics, enabling managers to address complex challenges in sports enterprises. By integrating rigorous coursework with industry-specific scenarios, advanced programs prepare professionals to drive innovation and achieve sustainable growth. For instance, enrolling in the fastest MBA programs can bridge the gap between practical experience and essential business acumen, directly contributing to career advancement in a competitive sports landscape.

Can advanced doctoral education bolster a sports manager’s strategic capabilities?

Pursuing a doctoral degree, such as a DBA, can elevate a sports manager’s analytical and strategic decision-making skills by offering in‐depth insights into market trends, risk assessment, and innovative growth models. Advanced doctoral education facilitates an expansion of business acumen that supports evidence-based strategies, enhanced leadership in complex operational environments, and the ability to drive sustainable change. This academic progression often encourages professionals to explore novel management methodologies and data-driven approaches, complementing core sports management competencies. For those weighing cost-effective and flexible options, consider exploring affordable online DBA programs to balance advanced education with ongoing professional commitments.

How Can Global Opportunities Expand a Sports Manager’s Horizons?

International markets offer sports managers the chance to enhance their strategic and cross-cultural competencies by navigating diverse regulatory environments, fan demographics, and sponsorship landscapes. Managers who develop a global perspective gain access to broader networks and innovative business models in emerging sports markets, which can be pivotal for career growth. Pursuing advanced education, such as an accelerated business degree, may provide the essential business acumen and international insight needed to successfully capitalize on these global opportunities.

Can a one year online MBA accelerate your sports management career?

A focused, accelerated business education can equip sports managers with critical leadership and financial management skills in a brief period. Programs such as the one year online MBA offer targeted insights into budgeting, strategic planning, and data-driven decision-making, which are essential for thriving in a fast-evolving sports industry. This streamlined approach minimizes time away from work while delivering practical frameworks that help managers address complex operational challenges and seize market opportunities effectively.

How Can Sports Managers Effectively Manage Crises?

Effective crisis management is essential for safeguarding organizational reputation and ensuring operational continuity during unexpected events. Sports managers must develop and implement comprehensive response strategies that include rapid communication, stakeholder engagement, and clearly defined contingency plans. Collaborative efforts with legal and public relations professionals help in preparing responsive protocols tailored to diverse challenges such as public controversies, operational disruptions, or unforeseen financial setbacks. Enhancing these competencies through executive education, such as courses offered by affordable online EMBA programs, provides managers with advanced techniques in decision-making and risk mitigation.

How important is financial literacy in sports management?

A robust financial foundation empowers sports managers to make informed strategic decisions and manage operational risks effectively. Mastery of budgeting, forecasting, and revenue optimization enables managers to align financial strategies with team performance and growth objectives. Integrating financial literacy into day-to-day operations supports better negotiations, sponsorship management, and resource allocation, ultimately contributing to sustainable organizational success. Pursuing targeted education, such as a finance bachelor degree online, can provide the essential skills needed to navigate the complex financial landscapes of sports enterprises.

What is the job outlook of sports managers?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of entertainment and recreation managers—whose work resembles that of sports managers—is anticipated to increase by 11% from 2023 to 2033. This is more than double the collective growth rate of all US jobs, which is 4%.

Based on recent data from Indeed.com, there are currently over 4,000 job openings for sports management positions in the United States. Meanwhile, openings for entertainment and recreation managers, potential roles of sports management majors, number to around 4,800 each year from 2023 to 2033. This shows that aspiring sports managers face plenty of career options when they complete their requisite education.

The chart below shows how the demand for sports managers compares to other management positions collectively.

What is the average salary of sports managers?

According to the BLS, sports managers take home an average annual salary of $132,810 and a median annual salary of $84,900. The gap between both amounts demonstrates growth in the position and the potential salary jump when sports managers find employment in high-profile squads, like national teams and clubs from prestigious leagues. Both figures are also considerably bigger than the national average, which is $48,060. Check out our article on the highest paying sports management careers and salaries to know more.

Meanwhile, the US states that offer the highest average annual salaries to sports agents are Connecticut ($190,400), New York ($153,520), New Jersey ($152,300), California ($136,450), and Idaho ($115,740). Each of these states have a large market for sports squads, enabling them to pay their managers and other staff higher.

What are the biggest challenges faced by sports managers?

Sports teams have plenty of moving parts, and mishandling any of them can lead to significant financial losses or a drop in audience engagement, which lowers sales on various fronts. Sports managers face plenty of challenges, and the biggest ones include these:

Budget Constraints

Sports managers frequently juggle limited budgets and high expectations from various stakeholders. The challenge lies in allocating resources wisely while preparing for unforeseen expenses, such as injuries or cancellations. Effective planning, clear priorities, and securing additional funding sources are crucial for overcoming these financial pressures.

Legal and Ethical Issues

The complexity of sports regulations and ethical standards can be daunting for managers. From legal compliance to upholding fair play, they must navigate a minefield of potential issues. Consulting legal experts, maintaining transparency, and following established codes of conduct help ensure integrity and trust in decision-making.

Team Dynamics

Managing relationships among players, staff, and coaches requires sensitivity and strategic leadership. Differences in personality or goals can cause friction, making it essential to promote collaboration, inclusivity, and shared purpose. Encouraging open communication and resolving conflicts constructively fosters a united and high-performing team.

Market Competition

Competing in a saturated sports market requires innovation and adaptability. Managers must understand their audience, differentiate their offerings, and anticipate trends to remain competitive. Crafting unique value propositions and leveraging creative marketing campaigns are key strategies for success.

Career Development

The dynamic nature of sports management demands constant professional growth. Managers need to stay informed about industry innovations, network with peers, and pursue advanced training. Achieving career milestones involves setting clear goals, filling skill gaps, and actively seeking opportunities to learn and grow.

Here's What Sports Managers Say About Their Jobs

"Sports management combines two things I’ve always loved: business strategy and the thrill of competition. Whether I’m negotiating sponsorship deals or planning large-scale events, the work is dynamic and never boring. What’s even more rewarding is knowing that my efforts help bring communities together through sports. The long hours are balanced by the satisfaction of seeing everything come together, from the roaring fans to the athletes performing at their best. For anyone who loves sports and thrives on multitasking, this career is a dream come true." - Steve

"Working as a sports manager has opened doors to incredible relationships and experiences that I never anticipated. From negotiating sponsorship deals to organizing community outreach programs, I’ve learned the importance of building connections both on and off the field. The emotional highs of seeing fans rally behind our team and knowing that my efforts contributed to that sense of community is truly special. This role has taught me the power of teamwork—not just among athletes, but within the entire organization. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to achieve their best." - Tony

"As someone who grew up loving sports but knew I wouldn’t play professionally, sports management allowed me to turn my passion into a fulfilling career. I get to collaborate with athletes, solve real-world challenges, and contribute to the success of both individuals and teams. The emotional reward of seeing an athlete achieve their dreams, knowing you played a role behind the scenes, is unmatched. It’s a demanding job, but the sense of accomplishment and the chance to be part of the sports world makes it worth every moment." - Wanda

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Sports Manager

What's the difference between a coach and a sports manager?

A coach focuses on the development and performance of athletes or teams, providing training, strategy, and motivation to achieve athletic success. In contrast, a sports manager oversees the broader operational, financial, and strategic aspects of sports organizations, including managing events, sponsorships, contracts, and facility operations. While both roles are essential to the success of sports teams, a coach works directly on athletic outcomes, whereas a sports manager handles the business and administrative side of the industry.

Can a player be a sports manager?

Yes, a player can become a sports manager, especially after transitioning from their playing career. Many former athletes leverage their experience and knowledge of the sport to take on managerial roles, where they can apply their insights into team dynamics and athlete development. Additionally, having firsthand experience in the sport can enhance their credibility and effectiveness in managing teams or organizations.

What is the most essential responsibility of a sports manager?

The most essential responsibility of a sports manager is to oversee the business operations of a sports team or organization. This includes managing budgets, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with regulations, all while balancing the needs of players, staff, and stakeholders to create a successful and sustainable environment for the team. Effective sports managers also play a critical role in marketing and promoting the organization, which contributes to its overall profitability and visibility in the competitive sports landscape.

Do all teams have a sports manager?

Not all teams have a dedicated sports manager, but many do, especially at higher levels of competition such as professional and collegiate sports. In larger organizations, sports managers oversee various operational aspects, while smaller or amateur teams may not have formal management roles, with responsibilities often shared among coaches or volunteers. Ultimately, the presence of a sports manager typically correlates with the size and complexity of the team or organization.

References:

Bierhoff, O., Flegr, S., Küpper, J., & Tacke, T. (2024, February 28). Translating budgets into quality: European football’s value frontier. McKinsey
BLS (2024, April 3). 13-1011 Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes. BLS
BLS (2024, August 29). Entertainment and Recreation Managers. BLS
Coursera (2023, December 13). Your 2024 Guide to a Career in Sports Management. Coursera
Western Governors University. Sports Management Career. Western Governors University
Zippia (2024, April 5). Sports Team Manager Education Requirements. Zippia