There is a wide variety of sports industry jobs, but almost all positions are highly competitive. Many people have dreamed of careers in sports from the time that they were a child and actively pursue them once they are out of school.

There are many different avenues you can take to get a sports job. Of course, the most recognizable path is as a coach or player, but there are also jobs in sports relating to management, marketing and reporting.

If you are interested in sports jobs opportunities:

1. Make sure you have the proper training for the position you want. Get a degree in marketing if you want sports marketing jobs. Go to medical school if you are interested in sports medicine.

2. Demonstrate an early interest. When you apply for sports jobs, it will look more impressive to a hiring manager if you can show that you've been involved in sports from an early age.

3. Ask for an informational interview. If you know that you are interested in careers in the sports industry, but aren't sure which job best suits you, arrange informational interviews with industry professionals. You can learn what they do and determine what's best for you.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for sports industry employment as a coach

Coaching is a great way to impart your knowledge of the game on the new generation. If you don't have experience yet, you may want to try volunteering your time with a local children's league. With some experience under your belt, you can apply for higher paying positions.

I recommend: Taz Sport offers a 30-day free trial where you can upload your resume and search for coaching jobs. With a membership at The Coaches Marketing Group, you can send your resume to 5,000 institutions.

Manage behind the scenes with business jobs in sports

Most sports aren't just about the fun of the game. They are businesses and they need people to take on sports business jobs to keep the money coming in. With a degree in business, you are ahead of the game.

I recommend: Look at the opportunities on TeamWork Online to get started in your sports business career. Jobs in Sports also lists many jobs. They offer a trial membership at a discounted rate.

Use specialized job boards for sports industry jobs

Forget Monster--using job boards that specialize in the sports industry makes your job search easier.

I recommend: Get a free basic membership at Sports Careers, or pay for more benefits like job alerts and career coaching. TeamWork Online has a variety of sports jobs that you can apply for.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Freelance writing can be a great way to get online sports jobs. If this is something that interests you, write a few samples and start sending them to companies.