Summer is a hot season for sports internships. While there's many available, there's also a ton of competition. Did you miss out on one this year? Don’t worry! You still have plenty of opportunities to build experience, grow your network, and make yourself a standout candidate for future roles in the soccer world.
Here are some ideas for smart moves you can make this summer:
💼 Gain Experience in Other Ways
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Volunteer at local clubs or tournaments
Reach out to youth leagues, amateur teams, or summer tournaments - they often need help with operations, marketing, or social media.
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Work game days for minor league or semi-pro teams
Roles like ticketing, fan engagement, and operations are often seasonal and flexible.
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Start your own project
Launch a soccer blog, start a podcast, or create content around your favorite club or league. Show off your creativity and consistency. And don't quit after the first few articles/episodes. Growth takes time in the creative space! It will pay off in the long run.
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Freelance
Offer to write articles, design graphics, or manage social media for local soccer organizations such as indoor leagues or youth clubs.
📚 Build Your Skills
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Take an online course
Learn the basics of sports marketing, event planning, or graphic design. Sites like Coursera, HubSpot, or LinkedIn Learning are great places to start.
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Get certified
Consider certifications in coaching (USSF Grassroots), first aid, or even social media management. These "small" things will boost your resume fast.
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Learn to use sports industry tools
Platforms like Hudl, Canva, or basic CRM software are often used by clubs and teams. Know them before you're asked to.
🤝 Grow Your Network
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Attend local soccer events
Go to coaching clinics, watch parties, or networking nights. You never know who you'll meet so be brave and introduce yourself.
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Connect on LinkedIn
Follow professionals in the soccer industry to keep up with industry trends and learn about types of soccer industry careers.
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Join a sports business community
Check out online groups or forums focused on sports careers. You never know who’s hiring or who can offer advice.
📅 Plan Ahead
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Start applying for fall internships now
Many fall internships are posted during the summer (or even earlier!) especially with college and pro teams.
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Create a ‘Soccer Resume’
Tailor a version of your resume specifically for roles in soccer. Highlight relevant projects, even if they’re not traditional internships.
⚠️ Final Tip: Consistency matters more than perfection. Even if you only spend a few hours a week on one of these, it shows initiative and that goes a long way in this industry.
Want help finding the right opportunity?
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