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Sports Development Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Development Manager

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

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

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$60 - $75K/hr

Special Olympics Maine / Development Manager / Portland, Maine Special Olympics Maine gives people with intellectual disabilities the chance to find joy, confidence, and community through sports.

THE POSITION As the Partnership Development Manager dedicated to Open Distribution, you will be the ... You'll proactively reach out to venues, promoters, and sports teams (rightsholders) that are ...

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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 Jun 30, 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, and why are they important?

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 are Sports Development Managers?

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 72% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,438 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Youth Sports Development Professional

Youth Sports Development Professional

Boys & Girls Club of Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA โ€ข On-site

$22/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Coach and lead youth in flag football, volleyball, basketball, and track, ensuring practices and games are engaging, instructional, and inclusive.

  • Create practice plans that balance skill-building, physical activity, and fun while maintaining a safe and organized environment.

  • Collaborate with program staff and families to support youth development and create a positive community experience.


Job description

Description

Status: 20-25Hours a week, Non-Exemptย 

Hours: Monday-Friday 2:45pm-5:00pm (practices) and Saturday for games

Base Pay: $22


Our Mission:

Enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

Our Vision:

Our vision for our youth is that they develop healthy physical and emotional habits, succeed in their chosen educational and career pathways, achieve self-efficacy and confidence, and become leaders in their communities.ย 

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position will lead youth in sports and enrichment programs, including flag football, volleyball, basketball, track, social recreation, arts & crafts, and physical education. The individual will be responsible for creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where youth can grow and develop. As a positive role model and mentor, this person will provide guidance, teach skills, and encourage teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect. The role requires strong leadership, effective communication, and the patience to support youth of all abilities and backgrounds.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Youth Sports Coaching Responsibilities:

  • Coach and lead youth in flag football, volleyball, basketball, and track, ensuring practices and games are engaging, instructional, and inclusive.
  • Teach fundamental skills, rules, and strategies while emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect.
  • Create practice plans that balance skill-building, physical activity, and fun.
  • Promote equal playing opportunities and encourage all participants to reach their potential.
  • Maintain a safe and organized environment by monitoring proper use of equipment and enforcing program rules.
  • Provide constructive feedback and mentorship to help youth grow both athletically and personally.
  • Collaborate with program staff and families to support youth development and create a positive community experience.

Program Development and Implementation

Communicate with parents, teachers, and program leadership regarding concerns, questions, and program needs.

Monitor, evaluate, and support programs to ensure safety, quality, and that activities meet the needs of all youth.

Supervision

Maintain a positive and safe environment by managing youth behavior and reinforcing club and recreational area rules.

Assist in developing injury prevention strategies and monitoring or evaluating any injuries that occur.

Ensure a productive work environment by participating in regular unit and organization staff meetings.

Ensure appropriate safety during practices and games by monitoring youth in public and outdoor settings, maintaining safe and well-prepared fields or courts, supervising proper use of equipment, and promoting hydration and overall well-being.

Additional Responsibilities:

May participate in special sports clinics and events.

May be required to help in other program areas.

Other duties as assigned.



Requirements

Requirements


SKILLS AND COMPTETENCIES REQUIRED:

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • 48 college hours or CBEST Requirement
  • Strong work ethic; organized, reliable, and self-motivated.
  • Experience working with youth and adults from diverse identities and backgrounds.
  • Ability to lead youth in structured activities while serving as a positive role model, specifically with the ability to coach and instruct youth in sports.
  • Ability to work independently with strong organizational and time management skills to prioritize tasks, plan practices, manage equipment, and meet deadlines.
  • Proven ability to collaborate as a team player and align with organizational goals for youth development.
  • Skilled in motivating youth, managing behavior, and planning quality programs and activities.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to engage youth, families, staff, and the public.
  • Ability to follow written, oral, and programmatic instructions with attention to detail and sound judgment.
  • Capacity to interpret and apply program procedures and standards to daily activities.
  • Commitment to safety and the ability to maintain a positive, structured environment.
  • Patience, adaptability, and conflict-resolution skills.
  • Ability to create engaging, age-appropriate practice plans and activities.
  • Ability to motivate and encourage youth while promoting sportsmanship and fair play.
  • Mandatory CPR and First Aid Certifications and TB clearance.
  • Must pass a background and LiveScan before employmentย 

ENVIRONMENT AND WORKING CONDITIONS


Tasks are regularly performed with moderate exposure to environmental conditions such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes, and temperature and noise extremes.


SMBGC is committed to building an inclusive team and strongly encourages candidates with diverse backgrounds and identities to apply. We will prioritize filling this position with qualified candidates who reflect our youth through lived experience as someone from a marginalized community or with diverse and intersecting identities, including race, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, and other intersecting identities.


DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, or to interpret as, comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job.


Extra Awesome Points:ย  ย 

  • Experienced working with youth in sports related activities.ย 
  • You are a Spanish speaker.ย ย 
  • You have more than one year of experience working with youth.ย ย 
  • Strong sports background in one or more of the competitive sports offered.ย 
  • You have a teaching certificate or background in education.ย ย