Job Description

Sports instructors teach professional and nonprofessional athletes on an individual basis. Typically specializing in one or a few types of activities, they organize, instruct, track, and lead athletes of indoor and outdoor sports. Sports instructors may also be responsible for any needed equipment and supplies.

Necessary Education

Bachelor’s Degree (and licensure for public schools)

Helpful High School Courses

English, Mathematics, Health, Physical Education, Psychology

Working Conditions

• May work irregular hours, weekends and holidays
  
• May be exposed to all weather conditions of the season
  
• May need to travel

Salary Range

• 2003, Delaware average annual salary, $35,530

• Job opportunities are typically best in high school and other amateur sports
  
• Those who are qualified to teach academic subjects in addition to physical education are likely to have the best job prospects
  
• Certification in the sport(s) is highly desirable and CPR certification is required

Personal Qualities and Interests

     You:

• Possess good communication skills and relate well to others
  
• Are able to motivate and lead others
  
• Are resourceful and flexible
  
• Have immense overall knowledge of the game/sport

Did you know?

• Coaches and sports instructors sometimes differ in their approach to athletes because of the focus of their work. For examples, coaches manage the team during a game to optimize its chance for victory, whereas sports instructors spend more of their time with athletes working one-on-one designing and teaching individual customized training programs.

Additional Information

• Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco

  
  

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