How to Secure a Sports Internship with Your Favorite Team

For sports enthusiasts who are determined to work in the industry, securing a professional sports internship with their favorite sports team would be a dream come true. However, sports internships are in high demand, making it very difficult to get accepted.

If you’re looking to break into the industry and work for your favorite sports team, it’s crucial you know the qualifications and the steps you need to take to land your dream position.

10 Tips for Securing a Professional Sports Internship

1. 1. Get the right degree

It takes more than an interest in sports to secure a professional sports internship. Seeking a degree in Sports Management, Sports Administration, Physical Education, Sports Business, Marketing, or Communications will help your chances of acquiring a sports internship and show you’re serious about working in the industry. However, if you’ve pursued a different degree, don’t worry. You may still qualify as long as you can show you have the skills they require for the internship.

1. 1. Do your research

After you have decided on a degree, you need to do your research. There are numerous ways in which you can find out about available sports internship opportunities. First, take a look at the life of your favorite coaches, agents, and analysts and find out how they made their big break, the companies they worked for, and any advice they may have for inspiring individuals.

You can also search online, see what is available, and pay attention to the qualifications and requirements.

1. 1. Show you are different from the other applicants

You need to have a resume and cover letter that makes you stand out from other applicants. In fact, it is better to include a photo or even send them a quality video that explains your credentials. It’s also a good idea to show particular examples of how your skills would benefit the team and the things you are willing to do to be a great intern.

1. 1. Seek out leadership experiences before applying for an internship

Your resume will look even more polished if you have some documented leadership opportunities. These types of experiences are considered desirable for a job that requires students to take the lead, solve problems, and overcome team challenges during the internship.

A leadership experience could be anything ranging from leading on-campus organizations such as honor societies, interest groups, or academic groups. Similarly, working part-time either during the summer or while taking classes is an excellent way to show a commitment towards taking leadership roles and displays a strong work ethic.

1. 1. Look for local internships

If you have relatively little experience when it comes to working with a sports team, consider applying for an internship with a local organization rather than pursuing one with a high-profile team to start. Local teams will also accept applications from high schoolers for summer programs which is a great way to start early.

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1. 1. Look for national internships

Luckily, professional sports internships are available nationwide. So, regardless of where you live, you can apply for an internship in any state you’d like. However, if you are still in school, take into consideration your schedule and the sports season, as there may be conflict.

1. 1. But don’t be too choosy…

It’s no secret that numerous people working in professional sports made their way to the top by starting at the bottom. So, if the only internship you can find involves cleaning the lockers and picking up towels, then you should still take it. Besides, you have the chance to make some fantastic contacts with operations staff, managers, coaches, and players. With a positive attitude and lots of hard work — you can make your way to the top.

1. 1. Before you say yes, get to know all the details of the job

Just reviewing the website of the company offering the internship is not enough. Instead, you need to know as much as you can before deciding to work there. One way is to call the companies you are interested in and ask if it is possible to talk to the Internship Coordinator.

Get all the necessary information, including salary, credit options, requirements, application deadline, hours, and location. After that, make a list of the internships you are interested in along with the deadlines, names, details, and number of contacts so that choosing the best one for you is easier.

1. 1. Boost your chances by attending sports conferences

Business leaders in the sports industry often have conventions and conferences throughout the year. These are incredible opportunities for networking and making contacts that can land you an excellent professional sports internship. When you attend, dress up professionally and carry a few copies of your CV. Some conferences may even offer a student discount. You can also reach out to the career services center of your school to organize a trip to the conference. It never hurts to ask!

1. 1. Never give up!

Competition in the sports industry is fierce. If you don’t land the internship of your dreams, don’t get discouraged. There are still opportunities available to you. You just have to find them.

Stay in touch with your favorite sports team regularly, and try sending out your resume to more than one person in the organization, including Public Relations Directors, Operations Managers, Marketing Directors, and Agents. For added value, send a thank you letter to the team for reviewing your application for consideration. Doing so will help keep you top of your mind if another opening becomes available.

In the end, keep in mind that if one opportunity fails to work out — there might just be something better waiting for you right around the corner.

Ready to Research Professional Sports Internships?

If you’re ready to start researching and applying for professional sports internships, Jobs in Sports offers the largest and most up-to-date sports job board online. Sign up today and land the internship of your dreams.