Department Sport Performance
Reports To: Head of Sport Performance
Position Type: Internship (Unpaid)
This position is non-paid. College Credit available
An applicant must either attend a North Carolina school or be a permanent North Carolina resident attending a school out of state. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Interns may work a maximum of 24 hours per week.
Position Summary
The Sport Performance Intern will assist the Sport Performance Department in the daily preparation, implementation, and operation of high-performance services for the MLS Next Pro Men's Team and Academy as needed. This internship is designed for individuals seeking hands-on experience within a professional soccer environment. The selected candidate will gain exposure to strength & conditioning, sport science, recovery, athlete monitoring, and daily performance operations while working alongside an interdisciplinary high-performance staff. This role requires professionalism, initiative, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced professional environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
โข Assist with daily setup and breakdown of training and gym environments
โข Support implementation of strength & conditioning sessions and field-based performance activities such as return to play and individual development plans
โข Assist with athlete monitoring systems including GPS, wellness questionnaires, and performance data collection
โข Organize, maintain, and manage performance equipment and training spaces
โข Support recovery protocols and post-training recovery operations
โข Assist with hydration, nutrition station setup, and fueling logistics
โข Support matchday and travel-related performance operations when assigned
โข Uphold confidentiality and professional standards within a professional sport environment
โข Perform additional duties as assigned by the Sport Performance staff Qualifications & Requirements Required Qualifications
โข Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's or master's degree in: โข Exercise Science โข Kinesiology โข Sport Science โข Strength & Conditioning โข Athletic Performance โข Or related field
โข Strong interest in elite/professional soccer performance
โข Excellent organizational and communication skills
โข Strong work ethic with the ability to take initiative and complete tasks independently
โข Ability to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and matchdays
โข Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a high-performance environment
โข CPR/AED certification (required prior to start date) Preferred Qualifications
โข Previous internship or coaching experience in collegiate or professional athletics
โข Experience with athlete monitoring technologies (GPS, HR monitoring, force plates, AMS platforms, etc.)
โข Familiarity with strength training and movement preparation principles
โข Interest in long-term athlete development and return-to-play processes
โข CSCS, SCCC, or related certifications (preferred but not required) Physical Requirements
โข Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs
โข Ability to stand for extended periods during training sessions and match operations
โข Ability to work in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions
โข Ability to perform physically active tasks throughout the workday Internship Details
โข Duration: June-October
โข Compensation: Unpaid; academic credit may be available if applicable through the candidate's educational institution
โข Location: Go-Forth Elite Performance Center, High Point, North Carolina Learning Opportunities Interns will gain practical experience and mentorship within:
โข Professional soccer sport performance operations
โข Strength & conditioning implementation
โข Athlete monitoring systems and performance technologies
โข Recovery and regeneration strategies
โข Interdisciplinary collaboration within an elite performance environment
โข Daily operations in a professional team setting Application Requirements
Applicants must submit
โข Resume
โข Cover Letter
โข 2 Professional References
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.