Do you love sports but don't want to become a professional athlete? How would you like to get paid for watching sporting events and discovering new talent?
You might want to become an athletic scout.
In this article, we'll talk about the skills and education you need to pursue this career path and give you a step-by-step guide to help you reach your goal.
What Does an Athletic Scout Do?
Athletic scouts are the professionals responsible for helping college and professional sports teams find new and talented players.
Scouts who work for colleges attend high school sporting events to 'scout out' promising young players and recruit them to their college.
Those working for professional teams attend both high school and college games to recruit talented players.
Though most athletic scouts work for college and professional sports organizations, some are self-employed or work for scouting agencies.
In addition to attending sporting events, athletic scouts perform various job duties such as:
- Perusing media sources to find promising athletes
- Talking with athletes and coaches
- Negotiating incentives for players
- Discussing athletes under consideration with coaches
- Studying videos and other data on prospective recruits
What Skills Do You Need to Become an Athletic Scout?
Athletic scouts must have expert knowledge of their chosen sport. They need to have a good eye for detail and the ability to spot both existing and potential talent.
They must have excellent communication and negotiation skills to be able to convince athletes to play for their team and to convince coaches and other team officials to recruit or hire players.
They should be skilled at making decisions about which players to recruit. They also must be dedicated and willing to keep looking until they find players that give their team the best chance of success.
So, do you have what it takes to become an athletic scout? Follow the steps below to pursue this career.
1. Develop an Understanding of Sports
While you are still in high school, begin preparing for your career by learning all you can about the sport you want to scout for.
Learn the game's rules and watch or play as often as you can. Consider joining your varsity team, and talk to coaches and scouts to learn more.
The more you can immerse yourself in the sport, the better you'll become at spotting potential talent.
2. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
Athletic scouts work at various levels; some work for themselves or small colleges, while others work for world-class teams or scouting agencies.
Those hoping to scout at a lower level may be able to do so with only a high school diploma. However, those hoping to work at a higher level will likely need a bachelor's degree.
Any degree is fine, but some good options to consider include:
Regardless of the degree program you choose, you can expect to spend about four years earning your bachelor's degree.
3. Gain Relevant Work Experience
There is no one way to become an athletic scout; being successful in the job often involves working your way up to higher-level positions.
A crucial part of this process is gaining practical, hands-on experience. You can start gaining this experience by volunteering your services to local teams or scouting agencies.
Ask about job-shadowing opportunities, and offer to help out with analyzing videos and scouting players in person. Learn all you can from experienced scouts working for the organization.
You can also look for internship opportunities in your area. These will allow you to practice more of your scouting skills and continue learning from experienced professionals.
These opportunities allow you to not only expand your skills but to make valuable connections and grow your professional network.
4. Create a Portfolio
As you gain experience, start building your portfolio. Keep track of scouting reports you write, as well as player evaluations and information on your best achievements.
Your portfolio is your best chance at making a good first impression with potential employers as you climb the ladder toward becoming an athletic scout.
Only include your best material and submit your portfolio, resume, and cover letter anytime you apply for a new position.
5. Consider Pursuing Certifications
It isn't always necessary to become certified, but doing so can improve your career prospects. There are various certifications available for athletic scouts, including:
- Certified Scouting Professional
- National Basketball Association Scouting Certification
- Professional Association of Volleyball Officials
The Certified Scouting Professional certification is one of the most common certifications, as it can apply across a range of sports. It is available through the National Institute of Sports Professionals.
Obtaining a certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in the field of athletic scouting.
Become an Athletic Scout Today
It takes time and effort to become an athletic scout, but this can be a rewarding profession for anyone who loves sports and enjoys watching and analyzing their favorite game.
