Early career development in the sport industry: factors affecting employment

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the processes and factors contributing to employment in the sport industry. In order to completely address the sport industry as a whole, sport management has been pragmatically divided into five sub disciplines, including professional practitioner, recreational, Olympic, collegiate athletic administration, and high school athletic administration. Academia has been specifically excluded from this study as a category, since its purpose is to focus on those with experiences outside the educational setting. Recognized professionals in each of the above mentioned areas were interviewed to establish their individual views and perceptions. These candidates have been drawn from a cross-section of both educational (bachelor’s and/or graduate) degree programs and several different university institutions. Individual phone interviews were utilized to establish the primary contributors for each participant in their career development. The data has been analyzed to answer research questions and form recommendations that will provide guidance for current students and practitioners in developing their career aspirations.