How to Become a Sports Agent

By eHow Careers & Work Editor

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A sports agent represents professional and amateur athletes. The typical duties include obtaining media attention, negotiating salaries and providing career counseling. It is a demanding job that requires time flexibility and excellent interpersonal skills. Learn what it takes to become a sports agent.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Decide if you'd like to take courses to learn the different aspects of being a sports agent. If so, attend an accredited university that offers a degree in sports management. Although there are no special educational requirements to become a sports agent, an understanding of the many aspects of sports management is beneficial.
Step2
Understand that to legally represent an athlete, you must successfully complete a registration process that includes examinations and fees. The registration process varies by state. You must also become certified to represent athletes in a specific sport and maintain that certification as long as your representation continues.
Step3
Realize that in-depth knowledge of the sports you choose to represent is critical to being a successful sports agent. You must also keep up with the rules and regulations of the particular sports.
Step4
Expect to negotiate contracts with teams and secure endorsements for the athletes you represent. Strong interpersonal and public speaking skills, along with the ability to build and maintain relationships are necessary to perform these duties effectively.
Step5
Begin your career as a sports agent by working in a reputable agency. Network with other agents to find agencies in your area. Search agent lists by state online at websites like All Sports Agents Directory. Motivated, registered agents can start their own management company; it only takes one client to begin. Fostering a strong relationship with that client could lead to other clients.

Tips & Warnings

  • Try to get an internship with a reputable sports management agency.
  • If you have little to no law experience, hire a lawyer to take care of the legal aspects of being a sports agent.
  • Don't expect a certain salary as a sports agent. The amount of money that you make depends on how much your athletes get paid.

Comments

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amylaine

amylaine said

Flag This Comment

on 2/23/2008 Great article.

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