What does a sports administrator do?

A sports administrator oversees performance off the field, aiding in the development of the particular sport they work in through marketing campaigns, sponsorship deals, legislative reform and government initiatives, in addition to administrative duties. Daily duties may include: discussing potential improvements with fans and club members, preparing budgets and expenditure reports, organising charity and sporting events, fundraising, sourcing sponsorship and developing sponsorship deals.

Tasks:

  • Conduct research
  • Plan sporting events
  • Aid in charity drives
  • Acquire and finalise sponsorship deals
  • Liaise with board of directors

What skills do I need to be a sports administrator?

A sports administrator must have a profound love of sports. Both on a personal and professional level, a love of sports will help a budding sports administrator find satisfaction in carrying out their daily duties, knowing they have a hand in the development of the sport. A sports administrator at any level will require superb communication skills, coupled with a personable demeanour - working in the sports industry requires the constant communication with a variety of people from different backgrounds and industries.

Skills/attributes
  • Good communication skills
  • Approachable and personable
  • Ability to work weekends and nights
  • Business savvy
  • Ability to multi task
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Specialisations

If you are interested in a career in sports administration there are a multitude of available specialisations, all of which, can be decided on with your interests, skill set and career path in mind. 

Sports Marketing Manager

A sports marketing manager uses their training in marketing and flair for publicity to help create and maintain a positive image for their sport. This can be achieved through a variety of means, using social media, charity events, press conferences and community initiatives as ways of raising community awareness and recognition.

Sports Facility Manager

A sports facility manager is responsible for the sporting equipment and maintenance of a particular sporting ground or arena. A facility manager ensures that all sporting equipment and facilities are maintained to a high standard, are kept in safe working order and hygienic. Facility managers also ensure the maintenance of the sporting arena/ground in general, making sure it is fit for both the athletes and the public.

Sports Development Manager

Sports development managers are responsible for the ongoing popularity of a sport. Development managers aim to achieve an increasing number of participants in the sport they represent. From young children to adults, development managers devise plans to make their sport appeal to the public and to encourage them to actively participate as fans and athletes.

Study pathways for sports administrators

There are a number of different study options available if you are considering a career in sports administration. Deciding which area of sports admin appeals to you is a good first step in narrowing down your study options.

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Getting Started

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Skill Building

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Professional Development

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Industry Recognition

There are a vast number of roles within sports administration as a whole, each of which requires different certification, experience and training.

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Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your sports management career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.

Job Prospects and Salaries

Your career prospects and salary are highly dependent on your chosen specialisation and role within the industry.

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Sports Management Courses
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