Introduction
Sports and physical activities have long been considered an essential part of human life, providing people with a recreational way to develop teamwork skills, foster personal integrity, and maintain physical health. Moreover, sports offer individuals the opportunity to pursue a career in the industry, and sports management in soccer is one such career that has gained considerable attention in recent years. This research paper aims to explore sports management careers in soccer, including the reasons for choosing this career path, the challenges of breaking into the field, a profile of a top professional in the field, and new insights gained about the career.
Reasons for Choosing a Sport Management Career in Soccer
There are various reasons why one may choose to pursue a career in sports management in soccer. First and foremost, individuals with a passion for sports can use their interest to build a career. As a soccer manager, my love for the sport can be channeled into managing and directing a soccer team to success. Furthermore, the field of sports management is rapidly expanding, offering numerous opportunities for individuals to work with professional athletes and teams (Kattuman et al., 2019). This career path also offers an opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.
Hurdles to Breaking into the Field
Breaking into the field of sports management is no easy task. The industry is highly competitive, with millions of individuals vying for a limited number of positions. Experience plays a significant role in landing a sports management job, with most employers seeking individuals with relevant experience (Kattuman et al., 2019). Securing an internship or mentorship opportunity within the sports sector is essential for gaining practical experience, constructing relationships, and cultivating talents that can differentiate one from other contenders (Lu et al., 2021). Education also plays a crucial role, as most sports management jobs require a minimum of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in sports management, economics, business, or a related field.
Top Person in the Career
Peter Moore, the CEO of Liverpool FC, is one of the most distinguished and experienced figures in the sports management industry. With over 30 years of experience in the business, Moore has held key positions in companies such as Electronic Arts (EA), Reebok, and Adidas (Horrow, 2022). Since his appointment to Liverpool FC in 2017, he has been instrumental in guiding the club to success in competitions such as the Premier League and the Champions League.
New Information Discovered about the Career
The sports management industry is continuously evolving, with new trends emerging each year. One such trend is the increasing focus on sports science in soccer. With the ever-increasing competition in soccer, teams are relying on sports science experts to develop and implement training programs that help athletes reach their full potential (Lu et al., 2021). Sports science encompasses a diverse range of fields, including kinesiology, physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition, and psychology, among others.
Reflection on a Related Job Posting
In researching sport management careers in soccer, I came across a job posting for a soccer club manager. The job description required a candidate with a bachelor’s degree in sports management, a minimum of five years of experience in soccer management, excellent communication and leadership skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. After reviewing the job posting, I realized that having relevant experience is crucial in this industry. As a student pursuing a degree in sports management, I recognize the importance of building connections, gaining relevant experience, and continually improving my knowledge of the industry to succeed in this dynamic field.
Conclusion
In summary, pursuing a career in sports management, specifically in soccer, is a rewarding and fulfilling path for individuals passionate about sports. While the industry is highly competitive, opportunities do exist for individuals with relevant experience and education. Researching top individuals in the industry, understanding new trends and skills, and reviewing job postings are crucial in gaining a deeper understanding of the requirements and the anticipated professional duties and career expectations associated with pursuing a role in soccer management.
References
Horrow, R. (2022). The sport business handbook. Human Kinetics.
Kattuman, P., Loch, C., & Kurchian, C. (2019) Management succession and success in a professional soccer team. PLOS ONE, 14(3). Web.
Lu, J. G., Swaab, R. I., & Galinsky, A. D. (2021). Global leaders for global teams: Leaders with multicultural experiences communicate and lead more effectively, especially in multinational teams. Organization Science, 33(4), 1251-1699. Web.