- If your interest lies within a particular sport, it may be best to look into working at a sports camp that's dedicated to that sport. This can include Baseball Camps, Football Camps, Lacrosse Camps, Volleyball Camps, Soccer Camps, Cheerleading Camps, Wrestling Camps, Swimming Camps, Tennis Camps, Hockey Camps, Track and Field Camps, Golf Camps, Gymnastics Camps and many more. Such camps could be single sex or coed, and last anywhere from a week to the whole summer.
- Prior to applying for a job at the camp, it's important to decide if you would feel more comfortable working at a day camp or a sleep away camp. You should also identify the hours and the duration that you are willing to work for. Many kids who are camp counselors get their first job working at a camp that they went to in the past. If you've had a great experience at a particular camp, that may be a good place to start; you're already familiar with their program and they are familiar with you.
- When it comes to working at a camp that specializes in a particular sport, there are a number of different positions that may be made available to you. Sometimes the best instructors are ones that have a great understanding and passion for the sport, even though they don't necessarily play it. There are different aspects of the sport that are taught in the camp, such as coaching, teaching, making plays, strategies and teamwork.
- Working at a sports camp is a great opportunity to do and be around what you love. Generally, when applying for a job as a counselor, you'll be asked about your qualifications and experience. It's wise to mention your involvement with the sport, as well as things like volunteer work and previous jobs that you've had; babysitting, coaching, school activities and involvement are all relevant positions.
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There are a number of ways to find jobs at sports camps for kids. The local paper is a good start, as are different schools and organizations that run such programs. The Internet is a useful resource when looking for sports camp jobs as well. There are a variety of sites that are devoted to helping kids find such jobs; they contain a comprehensive list of all the different camps, their locations, areas of specialization, what populations they cater to and whether that are day camps or sleep away camps. More importantly, they provide you with contact information so you can call and inquire about the positions that are available (see Resources below).
If you are not familiar with the camp, it's a good idea to visit it and ask to speak with someone who has worked there in the past (or is currently employed there). You may also ask to look at the camp's daily schedule of activities to see if it's a fit for you.
