We can’t all be premiership footballers or tennis champions but it goes without saying – all these jobs require a passion for sport!

BY JAMES CHURCHILL

For those interested in P.E. or sports, there’s a world of opportunity out there! Careers include a range of jobs from organising sports events to reporting on them. In our short guide to sport-related jobs who knows, you might just have a spark of inspiration!

Sports Therapist

Sports therapists help athletes recover from injury and illness. This can also involve treating emotional problems as well as physical setbacks. Sports therapists often work for a range of organisations including sports teams and clubs, health clubs and leisure centres. Good people skills are a must, as well as the relevant qualifications and experience. Any qualifications accredited by The Society of Sports Therapists (or other official bodies) are extremely useful to have.

Sports Development Officer

Sports development officers are responsible for organising sports events for different communities and groups of people to get them involved in sport and fitness. These could be events for young people, disadvantaged communities or the disabled. Qualifications in sports science, sports coaching and sports development are all great to have if this kind of job appeals to you but a passion for sport and experience are essential.

Sports Journalism

The work of a sports journalist can vary from hosting a TV programme to writing for a magazine, fanzine or website. Often journalists progress through different types of work but to be a sports journalist it is wise to have a degree in the subject or a degree in general journalism. You can also get a head start by creating blogs, video channels or any other form of reporting on sport. That way, you will stand out to potential employers.

Groundskeeper

A groundskeeper for sports clubs is responsible for the upkeep of the grounds. The work can include maintaining pitches, laying new turf or painting and is a physically demanding job. It is relatively easy to enter as no strict qualifications are required. However, specific courses can be taken in turf maintenance, as well as apprenticeships for grounds keeping.

Event Manager

All sporting events need to be planned by an events manager. You need to be thoroughly organised as you’ll often be talking with outside groups who provide services. This could be anything from organising the catering to checking the correct health and safety and security measures are in place. The best way to get started is by helping out at as many sporting events as you can then to work your way up. You can also study events management at university or college and apply your knowledge to the sporting sector.

PE Teacher

Now you know what this is, but there is a lot more to teaching than you might think. Being a P.E. teacher can be very rewarding as you can help kids engage in sports and watch them grow in confidence and ability. To become a P.E. teacher, it is best if you study a degree in Physical Education, and you must gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) if you wish to teach in a school. The ability to understand and inspire children is an essential quality to have for this job.

Sports Nutritionist

Nutritionists help athletes optimise their diet to raise their performance. They can also work with companies designing products to help with nutrition. You’ll need to have gained A levels - Biology and P.E. are a good combination to study. You can also gain a degree in sports nutrition, but it is essential to have a qualification which is endorsed by the Nutrition Society.

Sports Facility Manager

Sports facility managers make sure that sporting facilities such as leisure centres, swimming pools and tennis courts are safe to use and in good condition. You need to be able to handle emergency situations calmly and have knowledge of first aid. You won’t necessarily need formal qualifications but you will need knowledge, and possibly certificates, for specific types of facilities.

Personal Trainer

Personal trainers make a positive impact by working with people on personal goals and exercise programs. To become a personal trainer, you need to be a qualified fitness instructor (courses can start at college level) and have a sound knowledge of exercise and how the human body works. You should also be open, friendly and confident in your approach so you can motivate people to achieve their fitness goals.

Sports Marketing

To be in any form of marketing, it is best to be creative and think outside the box. You also need to be assertive and able to work with people. It can be useful to have a degree in marketing, but experience is also useful. Sports marketing can include a diverse range of activities, from marketing energy drinks to handling the publicity for big-name teams, clubs and sports personalities.