7 Soccer-Related Careers You Can Pursue Besides Turning Pro

If you’ve played soccer your entire life and never want to leave the sport behind but aren’t sure playing professionally is the right path for you, there are other soccer jobs you can pursue. Many people work behind the scenes in the soccer world, so you don’t have to be a star striker to stay around the game you love. The jobs found below range from career opportunities to build your life around to summer jobs a Soccerista still in school should consider.

Marketing

Most teams have some sort of marketing department, big or small. This group includes designers, writers, and web developers. For example, you could refresh the web page or design stadium banners. It could also involve building partnerships with other organizations, such as college soccer teams or courting large-group ticket sales.

Sponsorship and Communications

An organization’s sponsorship department is crucial to the team’s success. People here establish connections with businesses and people who may invest in the team. Some court new businesses and others work to tighten ties with existing sponsors. Teams need communications specialists to keep sponsors and partners happy.

Coaching

The coaching team is so much more than just the head coach. For example, you could be a goalkeeper coach or coach one of the organization’s youth teams. The support staff does everything from filling water bottles to managing the team’s equipment. Some teams hire a specialist just to take care of soccer shoes. Other positions help the players, like the person who takes care of food and hotel reservations for the team on the road.

In The Stadium

Many people are backing up the team in the stadium and offices for all you see on the field. Someone needs to sell scarves and popcorn; someone is answering the phones, selling tickets, and cleaning up. These soccer jobs may not be dream jobs, but they can get your name to people who may hire directors and managers later. These jobs will also help you get familiar with team culture and workplace norms. These are also great jobs for Socceristas looking for work in the offseason.

Youth Camp

Many teams also host youth teams and youth camps over the summer. These organizations are hiring coaches, assistants, and organizers. If you are thinking of coaching later, working for one of these youth development organizations is a solid start. Youth camp soccer jobs are perfect for high school and college students. 

Health and Medicine 

Every team needs a solid medical department. This doesn’t just mean doctors. There are other roles teams hire for that are tied to medical work: athletic trainer, sports medicine specialist, certified physician’s assistant, physical therapist, facilities manager, reception and office manager, and nutritionist.

Other Soccer Jobs

Sports broadcasters, analysts, and sportswriters often work with teams and are great for former players who love the game. Also, investigate organizations and charities that work for or with soccer. For example, working for AYSO or Grass Roots Soccer gives you a little more than just a paycheck.

Whether looking for a long-term career to pursue or a summer job to pass the time between seasons, your soccer skills can help build a great resume. There’s so much more you can do with your soccer career than just play professionally. If you ever decide to hang up your boots for good, that doesn’t mean your soccer career has to be over.

Featured Image via Adobe Stock

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