How to Become a Sports Agent

Whether you’re intrigued by sports or currently work in the industry, you may be interested in working as a sports agent. It’s a career that allows you to thrive while helping athletes establish their financial futures. Curious about how to move forward? 

This detailed guide will show you how to become a sports agent. 

Unlock Course

Featured Course: The Professional Football Agent 101

How to Attain Certification & Succeed as a Pro Football Agent.

Unlock Course

Sports Agent Overview

You may be wondering about the roles and responsibilities of sports agents. There may be specific education requirements you must meet before getting licensed in your state. How much might you earn and is there an increasing demand for professionals in the field? 

Job Description

In this role, you will oversee contract negotiations and business affairs for your clients. If you decide to forgo the agency route to work independently, you will also have to employ strategic marketing tactics to identify prospective clients. 

Salary Information

On average, sports agents earn an annual salary of $102,300, notes the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This breaks down to $49.18 per hour. 

The amount you earn will depend on your client roster and how hard you’re willing to work. You should also master the art of negotiating contracts as a large portion of your income will be derived from commissions earned on deals. 

Education Requirements

While a degree is not required to be a sports agent, it’s in your best interest to consider a bachelor’s in sports management or a related discipline. If you want to boost your knowledge and rapidly advance your career, a master’s or law degree is ideal. 

Steps to Becoming a Sports Agent 

There are several paths you can take to become a sports agent. Here are some tips to help you get there. 

You want a degree in sports management or a related discipline. If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, start there. Otherwise, look for a master's degree program to give you the foundational knowledge you need to excel in this competitive industry. Both options should also require students to complete at least one internship to gain real-world experience. 

Some agents also choose to go to law school. They select this route to acquire the skills needed to dissect the legal components of the contracts they negotiate. A law degree isn’t necessary to begin working as a sports agent, but it may be worth considering down the line. 

Get Licensed and Registered 

Each state has its own licensure and registration requirements for sports agents. You may be required to successfully pass a series of exams to demonstrate your expertise. Expect to undergo a background check and remit funds to cover any fees related to the licensure and registration process. 

Boost Your Knowledge

You need an exceptional work ethic and extensive background knowledge in the business of sport to thrive as a sports agent. Consider online courses to provide you with in-depth insight you need. The classes are led by experienced professionals and require an investment that’s a fraction of what you’ll spend earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Plus, the information can help supplement what you’re learning in the classroom. 

Connect with Other Professionals

This can be done through networking opportunities offered by your college, university or professional organizations. You should also connect with your peers as you never know if it could lead to a business opportunity later on down the line. Networking events are also an ideal way to sharpen your communication skills that will be instrumental when you enter the field. 

Best Universities for Becoming a Sports Agent 

These online degree programs are a good fit for aspiring sports agents. 

1. Wilmington University 

Learn the business of sport from seasoned sports agents. Consider the online bachelor’s in Sports Management program from Wilmington University. Students receive hands-on instruction on several vital concepts while completing a sports management internship. You will also have the opportunity to earn a certificate in Sports Analytics, Sports Media or Nonprofit Sports Management.

2. University of Florida 

Do you already have a bachelor’s degree? The University of Florida offers an online Master of Science in sports management. It’s certified by the Professional Association of Athlete Development Specialists (PAADS) and prepares you for a rewarding career as a sports agent. You can also enhance your degree by choosing the athlete development or sport law specializations. The athlete development caters to students who want to work with athletes as their careers flourish and help them meet the academic requirements to become PAADS-certified. If you choose the sports law specialization, you will be equipped with knowledge of laws that relate to the sports industry. 

Courses Related to Becoming a Sports Agent 

This course will help you prepare for a career as a professional football agent. 

The Professional Football Agent 101 

Interested in representing professional football players? The Professional Football Agent 101 will show you the ropes. It is led by professional football agent Jerry Marlatt and covers the career opportunity in-depth to determine if it’s a good fit. The class also includes lessons on the agent’s role, the NFLPA and CFLPA certification process, the recruitment process, best practices when servicing clients and so much more. 

Register today for only $29.99 to unlock 15 video lectures. You will also receive a certificate of completion when you finish the course. 

Prepare for a Career as a Sports Agent 

Ready to make your dream of becoming a sports agent a reality? Take a look at our recommended online degree programs, evaluate your options and enroll in a program that fits your needs. With hard work, perseverance and strategic networking, you can be up and running as a sports agent in record time.