Whether you are hanging up your boots after high school or moving on from the game after college, there are plenty of career choices to consider beyond the soccer field. Let’s take a look at ten professions that one can find fulfilling after soccer.
1. Youth Coach/Instructor
Every player remembers their favorite coaches! Stepping into the world of coaching can actually be more rewarding than playing on the field. Being able to pass down knowledge about the game to the younger generation is definitely a special path to choose.
2. Media Personnel
If you have played soccer in the age of technology, then you are likely familiar with the importance of media. Media is a vast world with numerous titles. One could be involved with the social media aspect or the sports media a team receives. Social media representatives are a big part of team popularity and play a significant role in developing fanbases. Sports media personnel provide more analytical insight into a team’s performance and trajectory.
3. Athletic Trainer
Whether a player needs an ankle wrapped or assistance with rehabilitation, athletic trainers are there to help. Athletic trainers with personal experience with injuries may find it fulfilling to connect with younger players. Although it may be tough witnessing players in pain, but being a resource for the next wave of young players means a lot.
4. Physical Therapist
Soccer players endure all sorts of injuries, both minor and major. Physical therapists help alleviate tension and share methods of strengthening muscles to players. Finding a reasonable medical school to help secure the licenses and certifications needed would be the first step. Then, you’d be on your way to helping players work through discomfort!
5. Management
Being a team captain comes with the expectation of displaying leadership. The same goes for jobs in management. Whether one becomes a general manager or club manager, the same level of determination of a captain is needed.
6. Community Organizer
Majority of soccer clubs are deeply founded on communal work. From volunteer coaches to team moms, community members are truly the making of a great club. Being a community organizer would bring firsthand experience in providing soccer teams with the necessary structure to succeed. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?!
7. Sports Agent
If you’re looking for a career that directly interacts with athletes and assists them with their career choices, then being a sports agent may be the right fit. Expect a busy schedule and lots of meetings, yet a very rewarding result with trust and friendships with clients.
8. Marketing
Sponsorships are crucial for organizations. Uplifting brands and working to collaborate with other organizations creates financial stability and brings opportunities for club members. Working in the marketing field may be a good role for one who enjoys collaboration and who is eager for constant growth.
9. Sports Journalism
Writers can cover any topic of interest, and sports journalism is definitely making waves, especially with the growth of women’s soccer. Being able to write about the game that brings so much joy and possibly the club you grew up rooting for sounds incredible. Covering profiles and giving analysis about today’s players can help you stay in touch with the game’s latest feats.
10. Photography
Nowadays, everyone has a camera in the palm of their hand with their cell phone. Yet, if you have experience with professional cameras, maybe shooting a few action shots of soccer players could be a fulfilling career path. Whether helping out organizations for team photos on picture day or capturing the most exciting moments from soccer matches, photography in the sports world is an avenue many sports lovers find themselves in.
Image via @juliefoudy
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