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Sports Recreation Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Sports & Recreation Coordinator, you will support the planning and execution of leagues ... Manage and update field schedules, monitor facility usage, and facilitate roster signups. * Track ...

BA/BS in Social Work, Sports Management, Recreation, Psychology, Education, Human Services or related field is required. MA/MS preferred. * Prior experience with sports and recreation programs is ...

Sports & Recreation Intern

Seneca, SC · On-site

$11 - $14.50/hr

Sports Management Internship & Practicum DOL Status: Part Time FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Date ... and recreation field. We welcome Clemson University PRTM students and other students pursuing ...

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Sports Recreation Management information

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$28.5K

$64.8K

$103K

How much do sports recreation management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports recreation management in the United States is $64,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $80,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sports recreation management?

Sports recreation management is a field focused on overseeing, organizing, and promoting recreational and sports programs, facilities, and events. Professionals in this area may manage community sports leagues, fitness centers, parks, or recreational facilities, ensuring programs run smoothly and participants have a positive experience. They often handle budgeting, staffing, event planning, marketing, and compliance with safety regulations. A career in sports recreation management combines a passion for sports with strong leadership and organizational skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports recreation manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Recreation Manager, you need a background in recreation management or a related field, experience in program development, and knowledge of sports regulations. Familiarity with scheduling software, budget management systems, and industry certifications such as CPR/First Aid are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help effectively coordinate teams and engage participants. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, enjoyable, and efficiently run sports programs that meet the needs of diverse communities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in sports recreation management, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Sports Recreation Management often face challenges such as balancing limited resources, managing diverse participant needs, and ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are crucial for coordinating with staff, stakeholders, and participants. Staying updated with industry trends, maintaining flexibility, and investing in ongoing training can help address these challenges and support successful program delivery.

What is the difference between Sports Recreation Management vs Sports Coach?

AspectSports Recreation ManagementSports Coach
CredentialsBachelor’s degree in recreation, sports management, or related fieldRelevant coaching certifications, such as CPR, First Aid, and sport-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentRecreation centers, sports clubs, community programsSports fields, gyms, schools, private teams
Employer & IndustryPublic and private recreation organizations, sports facilitiesSchools, sports teams, athletic clubs
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on managing sports programs and facilitiesFocus on training and developing athletes

Sports Recreation Management involves overseeing sports programs, managing facilities, and coordinating community activities. In contrast, a Sports Coach focuses on training athletes, developing skills, and guiding team performance. While both roles are integral to the sports industry, they differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environments.

Is a sports recreation management degree worth it?

A sports recreation management degree prepares individuals for careers in managing sports facilities, programs, and events, often requiring skills in organization, communication, and leadership. It can improve job prospects and earning potential in the sports and recreation industry, especially when combined with relevant certifications or experience.

What jobs can you get with a sports recreation management degree?

A sports recreation management degree prepares individuals for roles such as sports facility manager, recreation director, event coordinator, sports marketing specialist, and fitness center manager. These jobs typically require skills in organization, communication, and knowledge of sports or recreation programs, often involving certifications or experience in the field.
More about Sports Recreation Management jobs

What cities are hiring for Sports Recreation Management jobs?

Cities with the most Sports Recreation Management job openings:

What states have the most Sports Recreation Management jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sports Recreation Management jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sports Recreation Management job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,815 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

YMCA Sports & Recreation Management Internship - Fall 2026

Beverly, MA

YMCA OF THE NORTH SHORE INC
Non-Profits • 1 - 5K employees

$0.01/hr

Internship

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Sports & Recreation Unpaid Internship 

Make an Impact. Gain Experience. Grow Your Career.

About Us

At the YMCA, we’re more than just a fitness facility—we’re a nationally recognized nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our sports and recreation programs help children build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and stay active while forming lasting friendships. From soccer and basketball to karate and rock climbing, we offer engaging activities that keep kids learning and growing every season.

About the Internship

Are you passionate about sports and recreation? Looking to gain hands-on experience in program coordination, coaching, and youth development? A Sports & Recreation Internship at the YMCA provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting while directly impacting young athletes.

As an intern, you will work alongside the Sports & Recreation Director, gaining experience in program management, coaching, customer service, and facility operations. This internship is designed to help you build essential skills in leadership, teamwork, and sports administration—setting a strong foundation for your future career.

What You’ll Do

On a typical day, you will:

  • Assist with recreational youth basketball leagues and seasonal sports programs.
  • Coach the fundamentals of various sports, emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and confidence-building.
  • Coordinate programming at large gymnasiums and sports centers.
  • Engage directly with children, parents, and YMCA members to create a positive and inclusive environment.
  • Develop and implement marketing materials to promote programs.
  • Maintain program facilities and ensure a high-quality experience for participants.
  • Learn about program administration, scheduling, and operational logistics.
  • Gain valuable exposure to YMCA leadership and career pathways within sports and recreation.
Is This the Right Opportunity for You?

This internship is ideal for you if:

  • You love sports and have the ability to teach basic skills and fundamentals.
  • You enjoy coaching or want to develop coaching experience.
  • You have experience working with youth and are passionate about mentorship.
  • You’re interested in learning about the behind-the-scenes management of sports programming.
  • You are studying Sports Management, Recreation & Leisure, Nonprofit or Business Management, Physical Education, or a related field.
  • You aspire to become an Athletic Director, Sports League Coordinator, Physical Education Teacher, or YMCA Sports Program Director.
Internship Highlights
  • Hands-on learning experience with direct youth engagement.
  • Exposure to program planning, coordination, and leadership development.
  • Opportunity to complete a final project, such as a case study evaluating a recreational program and presenting a business plan to enhance program quality and participation.
  • Professional networking opportunities with YMCA leaders and mentors.
Internship Details
  • Duration: 14-16 weeks (one semester or based on school curriculum requirements).
  • Hours: 10-32 hours per week, depending on internship criteria and availability.
  • Locations: Beverly, and Marblehead YMCAs.
  • Compensation: Unpaid (includes a free YMCA membership and discounts on YMCA programs).
  • Application Process: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until filled. Internship listings are released the semester before the anticipated start date.

Ready to gain hands-on experience and make a difference in your community? Apply today!

Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited college or university, pursuing a degree in Sports Management, Recreation, Non-Profit Management, Physical Education, or a related field.
  • General knowledge of various sports, with specific experience in playing and/or instructing basketball.
  • Completion and submission of an official YNS internship application is required for consideration.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to verify and obtain any necessary prior approval from their educational institution before beginning the internship.

The YMCA is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religious creed, protected genetic information, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran's status.