Careers in sport

Introduction

Although the number of women working in sport is on the increase it is still an industry dominated by men. Men are more likely to hold positions of influence and authority. For example of the 113 members of the IOC only 13 are women. However both of the G.B. representatives are female. There has been little change in the percentage of women holding senior positions amongst governing bodies since 1968. This may be partly explained by the fact that the traditional route in to administration is from ex-players. Women are more likely to drop out of sport once their playing days are over in order to focus on domestic responsibilities. With greater awareness of gender equity amongst organisations more women will be encouraged to take up careers in sport, and will find that there are opportunities for them to do so.

Career options

These are a few of the careers that are available within the sports world; this is not an exhaustive list by any means. For further information on any of the jobs listed here, contact your school, college, university or local careers service.

Sports Development

Involved in encouraging people to take up sport.
You will need patience, enthusiasm, good communication skills and the ability to motivate others

Leisure/Recreation Management

You will be working in a customer-oriented environment and will need to enjoy working with people.
There are a variety of jobs available in this area and you may work in either the commercial or public sector.

Sport Media

This may involve work as a journalist, photographer or press officer.
Work experience is a good way of establishing vital contacts, as this is a very popular area.

Physiotherapy/Sports Medicine

A degree is essential for work in this area.
Most opportunities exist in professional sports clubs or private practice.

Sports Scientist/Nutritionist

May be employed by national organisations or professional clubs to advise athletes.
A degree is necessary and a further qualification desirable.

Outdoor Pursuits Instructor

Main opportunities exist through teaching and instructing in outdoor activity centres.
Need appropriate governing body qualifications.

The Services

Careers available in the armed or domestic services.
There are also opportunities to become physical training instructors.

Physical Education Teacher

Need to be educated to degree level.
Secondary schools have specialist PE teachers but some may want you to teach a second subject.

Sports Administration

Need to be able to work with, manage and co-ordinate people and events.
May work for a club, governing body or national organisation.

Coaching

You will help people take up sports and develop their performance.
You need good communication and leadership skills.
Full time employment is rare. See relevant section of this website for further information.

Relevant qualifications

There are various sports-related qualifications available through schools and colleges, for example A-Level PE, to find out what courses are available in your area contact local college or ask your school's Career Advisor.

Many universities offer degrees in Sports Science/Studies, Recreation Management etc. The content of these courses will vary between establishment and even courses with the same title will cover different subjects. Some degrees will have more of a scientific basis than others and you should find out as much as you can before making your final choices. Course information may be available from your school career office or can be obtained directly from the university department. Postgraduate courses offer the chance to specialise in a chosen area, the course may be research-based or taught. For further information contact your university careers service.

HNDs, Diplomas and Certificates. There are a wide range of courses in sport and recreation. They are designed to help people either entering the industry or those who want to further their careers. Your career office will have information on the courses available locally.

Vacancy information

Vacancies may be listed in health and fitness magazines, national newspapers, sports retail magazines, magazines on specific sports, local libraries and job centres.

Leisure recruitment agencies are also a good place to find work; these will be listed in your telephone directory. Recruitment agencies may also be available on the Internet and this can also be a useful source of vacancies.

The Institute of Leisure and Amenity Management (ILAM) produces a weekly mailing of job advertisements to which non-members can subscribe on a weekly basis. They can be contacted on .

The WSF produce a guide for women and girls on careers in sport which can be ordered via the office or by post, it costs £1.75 for members and £3.00 for non-members.