Landing your first sports internship is a big achievement, but stepping into a real-world workplace can feel intimidating. Every new intern wants to impress, but it’s easy to trip over common stumbling blocks – especially when you don’t know exactly what’s expected.
The good news? Most early mistakes are easily avoided if you know what to watch for and stay open to learning.
Below are five mistakes students often make in their first sports internship, and how you can dodge them to stand out and thrive.
1. Staying Quiet Instead of Speaking Up
It’s normal to worry that asking questions will make you seem unprepared, but silence can leave you confused or repeating mistakes. Managers appreciate interns who show curiosity and want to get things right.
How to avoid it:
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If something isn’t clear, ask for a quick explanation or real-world example.
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Write down your questions so you can bring them up at the right moment.
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Remember, thoughtful questions show you’re invested in doing the job well.
2. Not Prepping
Real preparation means more than just being on time: review any game notes, project materials, or meeting agendas so you know what’s happening as soon as you arrive.
How to avoid it:
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Take a few minutes each day to check updates from your team.
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Read shared documents and come with at least one relevant comment or question.
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Walk in ready to contribute, not just to fill a seat.
3. Not Keeping Supervisors in the Loop
If you run into challenges or get behind schedule, your manager needs to know. Not communicating can create bigger problems than the original issue!
How to avoid it:
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Give brief but timely updates about your progress.
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If things change, let your supervisor know as soon as possible.
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Think of yourself as a teammate who keeps the group on track.
4. Waiting for Instructions Instead of Taking Initiative
Interns sometimes wait for every assignment, but those who step up and look for ways to help leave a bigger impression.
How to avoid it:
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Offer ideas when you see possible improvements, whether big or small.
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Ask if there are extra tasks you can take on when you have downtime.
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Treat your internship as a chance to show your value and reliability.
5. Forgetting to Reflect on What You’re Learning
A sports internship isn’t just a box to check, it’s a chance to figure out what you enjoy and where you want to grow. Without reflection, you miss the chance to shape your career path.
How to avoid it:
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Every week, take a few minutes to jot down what you accomplished, struggled with, and enjoyed.
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Use your notes to update your resume or LinkedIn profile with concrete experiences < This is important!
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Recognize that even ordinary tasks help you build skills and confidence.
The Bottom Line
Your first internship may feel awkward at times, but that’s part of the learning curve. By asking questions, preparing each day, staying communicative, showing initiative, and reflecting on your experience, you’ll set yourself up for success and make your mark in the sports industry.
