Sports Opportunities, salaries and recruitment

Job Opportunities

Employment opportunities in the sports industry are expected to grow about 15 per cent between 2006 and 2016 which is faster than average.  Sports industry continues to grow to accommodate public interest in organized sports be it for entertainment, recreation or physical conditioning.

Coaches and umpires will be much in demand as more and more people turn to organized sports.  With many schools and colleges including athletic programs in their curriculum, there will be many job openings for instructors, trainers and coaches.  Candidates having certifications to teach academic as well as physical education will have brighter job prospects.

With an increase in tournaments and the prize money getting bigger and better, many sports such as tennis and golf are gaining popularity with candidates who want to choose sports careers.  Competition is very high for all professional athletes’ jobs.  The career-span is also short, as injuries and age quickly overtake most sportspersons.

Job openings for umpires, referees and sports officials will be quite bright as many educational institutions look for suitable candidates.  Many candidates also take on scouting jobs.  These jobs generally begin as part time ones and the candidates have to establish their credentials with a success-record.

Salaries vary greatly in the sports industry depending on the sports as well as the kind of career you have chosen.  Some jobs like those of instructors and coaches are sometimes given a set salary.  However, some organizations may pay them by the hour or session etc.   Pay for a professional athlete generally depends on the prize money.