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Sports Development Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

GO BEYOND THE IVY Our business is a team sport built on creating and delivering memorable ... Managing Director, Development LOCATION: Chicago, IL FLSA STATUS: Exempt COMPENSATION: $115,000 ...

Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

GO BEYOND THE IVY Our business is a team sport built on creating and delivering memorable ... Managing Director, Development LOCATION: Chicago, IL FLSA STATUS: Exempt COMPENSATION: $115,000 ...

Development Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$109K - $141K/yr

Development and Disposition - manages a portfolio of real estate development projects. New ... Elizabeth's East Campus, including the Entertainment and Sports Arena. Walter Reed Army Medical ...

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Sports Development Manager information

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$33K

$77.4K

$133K

How much do sports development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports development manager in the United States is $77,438.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $90,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports development manager?

To thrive as a Sports Development Manager, a strong background in sports management, program planning, and a relevant degree such as sports science or sports management is essential. Familiarity with sports development frameworks, funding applications, and event management software is typically required. Excellent leadership, communication, and partnership-building skills help drive community engagement and successful collaboration with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for growing sports participation, maximizing resources, and achieving organizational goals.

What is the difference between Sports Development Manager vs Sports Coach?

AspectSports Development ManagerSports Coach
Primary FocusDeveloping sports programs, strategic planning, community engagementTraining athletes, skill development, on-field coaching
Required CredentialsRelevant degree, certifications in sports management or developmentCoaching certifications, sports-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentOffices, community centers, sports organizationsSports fields, gyms, training facilities
Employer & Industry UsageSports clubs, local councils, national sports bodiesSchools, sports clubs, private teams

The Sports Development Manager focuses on creating and managing sports programs and initiatives, often working behind the scenes to promote sports at community or organizational levels. In contrast, a Sports Coach works directly with athletes to improve their skills and performance. Both roles require relevant certifications and are integral to the sports industry, but they serve different functions within the sports ecosystem.

What are some common challenges faced by sports development managers when implementing new community programs?

Sports Development Managers often encounter challenges such as limited budgets, varying levels of community engagement, and logistical issues when launching new programs. Building partnerships with local organizations and adapting to the diverse needs of participants can require creative problem-solving and strong communication skills. Additionally, measuring program impact and securing ongoing funding are frequent hurdles. Collaborating closely with coaches, volunteers, and local authorities is essential to overcome these obstacles and ensure successful program delivery.

What is a sports development manager?

Sports Development Managers are professionals who work to increase participation in sports and physical activities within communities, organizations, or educational institutions. They develop, implement, and manage programs aimed at promoting sports, improving access to facilities, and supporting athletes at all levels. Their responsibilities often include working with local authorities, sports clubs, and governing bodies to secure funding, organize events, and create pathways for talent development. These managers play a crucial role in fostering community engagement, healthy lifestyles, and sporting excellence.
More about Sports Development Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Sports Development Manager jobs? Cities with the most Sports Development Manager job openings:
What states have the most Sports Development Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Sports Development Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sports Development Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Youth Sports Development Specialist

Super Soccer Stars

Mount Sinai, NY • On-site

$18.75 - $23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

About Us

Soccer Stars and Amazing Athletes are the leading youth sports enrichment programs serving Long Island and Eastern Queens, providing high-quality soccer and multi-sport experiences for children ages 12 months to 13 years.

For nearly 25 years, we've helped thousands of children build confidence, develop athletic skills, and discover a lifelong love of being active. Our programs are offered in schools, parks, community centers, and sports facilities throughout the region, and we're proud to have built one of the strongest coaching teams in youth sports.

We believe every great program starts with great coaches.

That's why we're looking for an exceptional leader to help recruit, develop, mentor, and elevate our coaching staff.

About the Role

We're seeking a full-time Youth Sports Development Specialist who is passionate about youth sports, leadership, and developing people.

Whether your background is in coaching, physical education, kinesiology, sports management, recreation, athletics, or youth programming, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by shaping the quality of our coaching team and the experience of thousands of children each year.

You'll spend time in the field observing coaches, providing feedback, leading training sessions, mentoring staff, supporting hiring, and ensuring every Soccer Stars and Amazing Athletes class delivers an exceptional experience.

If you love helping others improve, enjoy leading by example, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll DoLead Coach Development
  • Lead engaging onboarding and training sessions for new and existing coaches.
  • Observe coaches in the field and provide meaningful feedback through written evaluations and one-on-one coaching.
  • Mentor coaches throughout their professional development and serve as a trusted resource.
  • Identify high-performing coaches and help prepare them for increased leadership opportunities.
  • Partner with leadership to continuously improve coaching standards across the organization.
  • Coach classes regularly while modeling best practices and serving as a mentor for fellow coaches.
  • Fill coaching vacancies as needed to ensure consistent program delivery.
Ensure Outstanding Program Quality
  • Visit classes, camps, and clinics throughout Long Island and Eastern Queens to ensure a consistently high-quality experience.
  • Ensure coaches are delivering curriculum with enthusiasm, professionalism, and age-appropriate instruction.
  • Help identify opportunities to improve program quality before issues arise.
  • Address coaching-related concerns from parents and partners professionally and promptly.
  • Serve as a positive ambassador for Soccer Stars and Amazing Athletes at every program location.
Support Operations & Hiring
  • Assist with coach scheduling to ensure appropriate staffing across all programs.
  • Support recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and training of new coaches.
  • Maintain records of coach evaluations, development plans, and performance.
  • Help ensure all coaches follow company policies, procedures, and curriculum standards.
Equipment & Logistics
  • Manage coaching equipment inventory across all program locations.
  • Coordinate equipment distribution and replacement.
  • Ensure coaches have the resources needed to deliver exceptional classes.
  • Develop and maintain organized equipment storage and tracking systems.
Why Join Us?

As our Youth Sports Development Specialist, you'll directly influence the quality of every program we deliver and help shape the next generation of outstanding youth coaches.

This is an opportunity to:

  • Develop and mentor an incredible coaching team.
  • Make a lasting impact on thousands of children and families each year.
  • Join one of the region's fastest-growing youth sports organizations.
  • Build leadership experience with significant opportunities for career growth.
  • Help shape the future of youth sports across Long Island and Eastern Queens.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who is passionate about developing people and creating outstanding experiences for children.

Ideal candidates may have backgrounds in:

  • Physical Education
  • Sports Management
  • Kinesiology or Exercise Science
  • Recreation Management
  • Coaching
  • Teaching
  • Camp Leadership
  • Youth Programming
  • Athletics
Qualifications
  • Experience coaching, teaching, mentoring, or leading youth programs required.
  • Soccer experience is preferred but not required.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Comfortable providing constructive feedback and coaching others.
  • Highly organized with excellent attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Comfortable working independently while collaborating with a larger team.
  • Proficiency with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar, Gmail).
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Willingness to travel regularly throughout Long Island and Eastern Queens.
  • Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Benefits

Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Stipend
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • A supportive, energetic, and mission-driven team culture