- Jobs For People
- Jobs For People Who Hate Working
- Jobs For People Who Don't Know What To Do
- Jobs For People Who Don't Speak English
- Jobs For People Who Love Reading
- Jobs For People Who Like To Organize
- Jobs For People Who Get Bored Easily
- Jobs For People Who Like To Work Alone
- Jobs For People Who Like History
- Jobs For People Who Like To Learn
- Jobs For People Who Like To Talk
- Jobs For People Who Love Sports
- Jobs For Teachers Who Don't Want To Teach
The 15 Best Jobs For People Who Love Sports
Whether you’re an elite athlete seeking your next career move or an avid sports enthusiast, pursuing a career that revolves around sports can be incredibly rewarding. In this article, we’ll explore 15 jobs tailored for sports lovers, along with insightful tips on what to consider when searching for a sports-related role.
Key Takeaways
-
The top three careers for sports enthusiasts are kinesiologist, coach, and athletic trainer.
-
Many sports-related jobs require advanced degrees, though several positions may only need a bachelor’s degree or even a high school diploma.
-
When pursuing a job in the sports sector, seek roles that offer outdoor activity, teaching opportunities, sports reporting, or health and wellness support for athletes.
Detailed List of the Top 15 Best Jobs for People Who Love Sports
-
Average Salary: $193,947 per year
Jobs Available: 87,510
Job Growth Rate: 7%Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to earn a lucrative living in sports. As a sports medicine physician, you’ll play a key role in rehabilitating athletes with musculoskeletal injuries, diagnosing conditions, and preventing injuries during athletic activities.
Engaging with professional athletes is an integral part of this role, which can be a dream come true for sports aficionados. The average hourly wage is $93.24, but a medical degree is typically required, with 34.3% of practitioners entering the field with a doctorate, while another 34% hold a bachelor’s degree.
Key Skills:
- Diagnosis of diseases and injuries
- Medical biology
- Understanding sports culture
- Critical thinking
-
Average Salary: $72,365 per year
Jobs Available: 6,513
Job Growth Rate: 14%With the intense pressure athletes face, maintaining mental health is crucial. Sports psychologists help athletes enhance their mental and physical well-being, using techniques like goal setting and relaxation strategies.
This role offers the chance to work closely with athletes, providing support and guidance. The average hourly pay is $34.79, and education is essential, as 64.4% of professionals in this field hold a bachelor’s degree, while 20% possess a master’s.
Key Skills:
- Observation and listening
- Motivational skills
- Empathy and sensitivity
- Problem-solving
-
Average Salary: $69,890 per year
Jobs Available: 74,304
Job Growth Rate: 22%Physical therapists (PTs) assist patients in improving their mobility and managing pain, often involving substantial physical activity. This role is ideal for sports lovers as you’ll likely work with numerous athletes.
The average hourly wage is $33.60, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is generally required, along with state licensure.
Key Skills:
- Physical stamina
- Effective communication
- Motivational skills
- Critical thinking
-
Average Salary: $69,878 per year
Jobs Available: 1,451
Job Growth Rate: -5%If medical careers don’t appeal to you, consider becoming a sports broadcaster. These professionals present sports news for radio or television, allowing you to immerse yourself in your passion while getting paid.
Sports broadcasters earn an average of $33.60 per hour, but a solid education is often necessary, with 82.5% holding at least a bachelor’s degree.
Key Skills:
- Public speaking
- Research
- Adaptability
- Interpersonal skills
-
Average Salary: $61,581 per year
Jobs Available: 45,433
Job Growth Rate: 22%Kinesiologists specialize in the study of body movement and often work with clients to create effective exercise regimens. This role is ideal for sports enthusiasts interested in healthcare without pursuing a full medical degree.
The average wage is $29.61 per hour, and most positions require a bachelor’s degree, as 78.9% of kinesiologists have at least this level of education.
Key Skills:
- Knowledge of biology and psychology
- Effective communication
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
-
Average Salary: $49,482 per year
Jobs Available: 10,248
Job Growth Rate: -6%Sports photographers capture action shots at events, contributing to media outlets and social media platforms. This role allows you to be close to the action while travel opportunities abound.
The average hourly pay is over $23, with many photographers succeeding with only a high school diploma and some college experience.
Key Skills:
- Photo editing
- Adaptability
- Visual storytelling
- Attention to detail
-
Average Salary: $48,200 per year
Jobs Available: 12,077
Job Growth Rate: -3%Sports editors oversee the reporting of sports news, ensuring stories are well-researched and accurately presented. This role suits individuals who love keeping up with sports events.
The average hourly wage is $23.17, with a bachelor’s degree being the most common requirement, held by 84.9% of sports editors.
Key Skills:
- Writing
- Grammar
- Research
- Understanding of sports culture
-
Average Salary: $47,565 per year
Jobs Available: 17,769
Job Growth Rate: 11%Passionate about teaching others? Becoming a coach allows you to share your love of sports while guiding your team to success.
Coaches earn an average of $22.87 per hour, with 62.1% holding a bachelor’s degree.
Key Skills:
- Motivation
- Interpersonal skills
- Creativity
- Effective goal-setting
-
Average Salary: $43,540 per year
Jobs Available: 7,039
Job Growth Rate: 6%Referees officiate sports games, ensuring fair play and adherence to rules. This role involves maintaining physical activity while enjoying the games you love.
The average hourly wage is $20.93, with varying educational requirements: 67.1% need a bachelor’s degree, while 12.3% require an associate’s degree, and 14% can start with just a high school diploma.
Key Skills:
- Calm under pressure
- Teamwork
- Attention to detail
- Decision-making
-
Average Salary: $42,310 per year
Jobs Available: 64,228
Job Growth Rate: 19%Athletic trainers collaborate with healthcare professionals to prepare athletes for competition and manage injuries. This role is essential for athlete well-being.
With an average hourly wage of $20.34, many athletic trainers hold a bachelor’s degree (72.9%) or a master’s degree (16.8%).
Key Skills:
- Empathy
- Organization
- Adaptability
- Communication
-
Average Salary: $41,089 per year
Jobs Available: 1,918
Job Growth Rate: 6%Sports statisticians analyze data from games, providing insights into player and team performance. This role combines sports with analytical skills.
The average hourly wage is $19.75, and a bachelor’s degree is the most common requirement (83.3%).
Key Skills:
- Scientific research
- Communication
- Statistical tools
- Data analysis
-
Average Salary: $40,778 per year
Current Jobs Available: 11,754
Job Growth Rate: -10%Sports reporters collect and present news on various media platforms, covering teams, events, and athletes. This role is perfect for those passionate about sports journalism.
Sports reporters earn an average of $19.60 per hour, with 87.4% holding a bachelor’s degree.
Key Skills:
- Writing
- Persistence
- Integrity
- Interpersonal skills
-
Average Salary: $38,768 per year
Jobs Available: 27,747
Job Growth Rate: 13%Personal trainers help clients achieve fitness goals, encouraging physical activity and healthy living. This role allows sports lovers to make a positive impact on others.
Average hourly earnings are $18.64, with a bachelor’s degree being the most common requirement (66.7%).
Key Skills:
- Motivation
- Patience
- Problem-solving
- Interpersonal skills
-
Average Salary: $36,335 per year
Jobs Available: 7,951
Job Growth Rate: 11%Athletic scouts identify promising athletes for teams, conducting research and evaluations. This role is perfect for those with a keen eye for talent.
The average hourly pay is $17.47, with 76.5% requiring a bachelor’s degree, while 23.5% can start with an associate’s degree.
Key Skills:
- Negotiation
- Decision-making
- Critical thinking
- Building rapport
-
Average Salary: $34,586 per year
Jobs Available: 1,851
Job Growth Rate: 11%Sports nutritionists advise athletes on dietary choices to optimize performance. This role is ideal for those passionate about nutrition and wellness.
The average hourly wage is $16.63, with 63.7% holding a bachelor’s degree and 16.3% possessing a master’s degree.
Key Skills:
- Medical nutrition therapy
- Teaching/presenting
- Counseling
- Organization
How We Decide Which Jobs Are the Best (and What to Look for Yourself)
Identifying the best sports-related jobs involves considering several factors beyond the inherent connection to sports. Key considerations include:
- Outdoor Activities: Jobs that involve outdoor activity can be particularly appealing to sports enthusiasts, allowing for a connection with nature and active engagement.
- Teaching: Opportunities to educate and share knowledge about sports provide a fulfilling way to inspire others.
- Reporting: Careers in reporting allow you to stay informed about sports while sharing your passion with a wider audience.
- Health and Wellness: Supporting athletes’ physical and mental health can be incredibly rewarding for those who love sports.
While different factors may weigh more heavily for you, this list is designed to highlight diverse options across various industries and fields.
The Bottom Line
Whether you actively participate in sports or enjoy them from the sidelines, a wealth of fulfilling career opportunities awaits you. From aiding athletes in peak performance to reporting on thrilling sports events, you can discover a well-paying job that aligns with your passions.
While this list focuses on some of the most lucrative careers in sports, many other roles offer opportunities for physical activity and athlete interaction. Explore the job market, and you’ll find the perfect fit for your love of sports!
- Jobs For People
- Jobs For People Who Hate Working
- Jobs For People Who Don't Know What To Do
- Jobs For People Who Don't Speak English
- Jobs For People Who Love Reading
- Jobs For People Who Like To Organize
- Jobs For People Who Get Bored Easily
- Jobs For People Who Like To Work Alone
- Jobs For People Who Like History
- Jobs For People Who Like To Learn
- Jobs For People Who Like To Talk
- Jobs For People Who Love Sports
- Jobs For Teachers Who Don't Want To Teach
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
