Sports Management Intern

About the Role

The Sports Management Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting youth and adult sports programs. This paid internship provides an opportunity to apply academic knowledge, develop professional skills, and contribute to meaningful improvements in community sports programming.

What You Will Gain

• Practical experience in sports management, program development, and operations.
• Exposure to coach development, parent engagement, and program quality improvement.
• Experience supporting the planning and promotion of youth and adult sports programs.
• Opportunities to apply communication, marketing, and project management skills.
• Professional mentorship and collaboration with YMCA sports leadership.

Key Projects And Learning Objectives

• Coach & Parent Communication: Support the development of communication tools and processes that strengthen engagement, clarity, and consistency.
• Coach & Staff Training: Assist with evaluating and improving training materials, orientation resources, and staff development opportunities.
• Program Quality: Gather feedback, assess current practices, and recommend improvements to enhance the participant and family experience.
• Adult Sports Development: Research, help develop, and promote adult sports programs to expand participation and community engagement.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Currently enrolled in a college or university, preferably studying sports management, recreation, business, marketing, or a related field.
• Interest in youth and adult sports programming and community recreation.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to collaborate with coaches, staff, participants, and families.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and eager to learn.
• Ability to manage assigned projects and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to YMCA values, safety standards, and positive participant experiences.

Working Conditions And Physical Requirements

• Operates in an active, community-based environment.
• Requires regular physical interaction with children, families, team members, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to walk, run, stand, climb, kneel, sit on the floor and return to a standing position, stoop, and jump.
• Ability to lift and pull up to 50 pounds.
• May be required to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Requires continuous attention to detail, effective multitasking, and the ability to respond appropriately in an active and changing environment.
• Must be physically able to successfully complete all required certifications and perform essential duties.

Compensation

• Wage Rate: $15.00 hourly
• This is a paid, temporary internship.
• Academic credit may be available subject to the requirements of the student's educational institution.

Pre-employment & Safety Requirements

• Successful completion of applicable pre-employment screenings (e.g., criminal background check, CPS check, sex offender registry check, drug/alcohol screening, driver's license record check if driving is required).
• Maintaining compliance with YMCA policies and safety standards throughout the internship.