Crafting the perfect internship: how sports organizations can attract top talent with clear role definitions

Define the Role and Responsibilities Clearly

A well-defined internship role is crucial for attracting the right candidates. Clarity in expectations helps both the organization and the intern ensure a smooth, mutually beneficial experience. Here’s how to define the role and responsibilities effectively:

1. Write a Clear and Concise Job Description

• Be Specific About the Role: Instead of vague titles like “Sports Intern,” use descriptive titles such as “Social Media Marketing Intern” or “Data Analytics Intern for Basketball Operations.” This helps candidates understand exactly what the internship entails and if it aligns with their skills and interests.
• Include the Scope of Responsibilities: Break down day-to-day tasks in detail. For example, if the intern will assist with event coordination, include specific tasks like “helping organize and execute game-day logistics” or “supporting the marketing team with content creation for upcoming events.”
  • Example:
    • Assist in managing the team’s social media accounts (Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok)
    • Create graphics and promotional materials for upcoming games
    • Conduct fan engagement surveys and analyze responses
    • Assist in scheduling and organizing team meetings

2. Highlight Learning Objectives and Opportunities

• Make It Clear What Interns Will Learn: In addition to listing responsibilities, highlight the learning opportunities. Mention what skills interns will develop or areas they’ll gain exposure to (project management, sports marketing strategies, data analysis).
• Outline the Professional Growth: Specify whether they will get access to mentorship from senior staff, opportunities to attend meetings, or get hands-on experience in high-profile events. This assures them that the internship isn’t just about menial tasks.
  • Example:
    • Learn how to develop digital marketing strategies in the sports industry
    • Gain hands-on experience using analytics tools like Microsoft Power BI or Tableau
    • Participate in weekly staff meetings to discuss team performance metrics

3. Define the Duration and Structure

• Time Commitment: Clearly outline whether the internship is part-time or full-time and the expected hours per week. Also, include whether the internship is remote, hybrid, or in-person.
• Project-Based Work: If the intern will work on specific projects (“helping plan a major event” or “assisting in player scouting reports”), mention these as it helps them understand the type of long-term work they’ll be doing.
  • Example:
    • Duration: 12-week summer internship
    • Time: 20 hours per week, primarily remote with occasional in-person meetings
    • Interns will complete a final project, such as producing a detailed report on fan engagement strategies for upcoming seasons

4. Set Clear Expectations on Skills and Qualifications

• Required vs. Preferred Skills: Differentiate between essential and desirable skills. For example, “Proficiency in Excel is required, knowledge of social media management tools (name specific tool) is preferred.” This helps candidates self-assess their fit.
• Be Realistic for Entry-Level Interns: Recognize that interns may not have extensive experience. Focus on qualities like willingness to learn, communication skills, and passion for sports rather than demanding a long list of technical abilities. The intern is utilizing the internship to learn skills, not just provide their free labor.
  • Example:
    • Required: Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • Preferred: Experience with graphic design software (Adobe Photoshop)
    • Bonus: Familiarity with sports performance analytics

5. Include Details on Compensation and Perks

• Be Transparent About Compensation: Whether the internship is paid, unpaid, or offers stipends or other benefits (game tickets, merchandise), make sure this information is upfront. This attracts the right candidates and avoids misunderstandings later.
• Mention Additional Perks: Perks like free tickets to games, merchandise, or access to professional sports networking events can sweeten the offer for students.
  • Example:
    • Compensation: $15/hour or $1,500 stipend for the duration of the internship
    • Perks: Free tickets to home games and team merchandise, access to networking events with sports professionals

6. Specify the Application Process

• Detailed Application Instructions: Provide clear instructions on how to apply, such as submitting a resume, cover letter, and portfolio (if applicable). Also, mention the deadline and any steps like interviews or writing assignments.
• What You’re Looking for in Applicants: State the qualities or experiences you’re seeking, such as “candidates who are passionate about sports marketing and demonstrate creativity and initiative.”
  • Example:
    • To apply: Submit your resume and cover letter to [email address] by [deadline].
    • Candidates selected for interviews will be asked to complete a short writing assignment on fan engagement strategies.

Sample Job Description

Position: Sports Marketing Intern for Soccer Team
Location: Remote (with one-hour in-person meetings bi-weekly)
Duration: Summer 2025 (12 weeks)
Time Commitment: 20 hours per week
Department: Marketing Team, student will work under the Director of Marketing

Responsibilities:

• Assist in managing the team’s social media platforms by creating engaging content (graphics, videos, and posts)
• Conduct fan engagement surveys and analyze the results to provide actionable insights
• Help develop marketing strategies to promote upcoming matches and team events
• Support the marketing team with copywriting for promotional materials and email newsletters

What You’ll Learn:

• Digital marketing strategies in a sports environment
• Experience working with analytics tools to assess fan engagement
• Opportunity to collaborate with senior sports executives and attend networking events

Qualifications:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Passion for soccer and general knowledge of the sports industry a plus
• Preferred: Experience with social media management tools (Hootsuite) and graphic design software (Adobe Photoshop)

Compensation: $1,500 stipend for the summer
Perks: Free game tickets, team merchandise, access to exclusive networking events

By clearly defining the role, responsibilities, and benefits, you’ll attract candidates who are aligned with your organization’s needs and excited about the opportunity, ensuring a positive experience for both the intern and your team.