Potential Magazine Summer 2020 | Page 19

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Physical therapists work with people who have injuries or are recovering from surgery. They usually serve the general public, but it’s possible to develop a specialization in sports. Average Salary: $87,930 Education Requirements: A Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree (DPT) and a license in the state where you’re practicing. HEAD COACH While most folks won’t become the head coach of professional sports teams, you can still coach at the high school or college level. There’s good news and bad news on the salary front, but if you want to dream big, head coaches in college and pro football commonly make seven-figure incomes. Average Salary: $33,780 Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and consistent participation in the sport you hope to coach. TEAM TRAINER Team trainers work at preventing, diag- nosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses by working with team members on an ongoing basis. Their job is to keep the athletes healthy and able to perform with certain injuries. Average Salary: $47,510 Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree relat- ed to the field. SPORTS MEDICINE DOCTOR Doctors who specialize in sports medicine, sports-related surgery, and the prevention of injury. Average Salary: $228,398 Education Requirements: Medical school, as well as any state licensing requirements. MEDIA SPORTS PROGRAM DIRECTOR A media director coordinates broadcast activ- ities, handles program scheduling and event coverage, and works with production personnel in assessing the length and content of media presentations. Average Salary: $71,309 Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree and several years’ experience working in a media-related capacity. SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHER It’s definitely not one of the higher-paying sports-related jobs, but if you love photography and sports, this can be the perfect career for you. Average Salary: $35,726 Education Requirements: A bachelor's degree or associate degree in photography or journalism. Auburn University shared their top sports-related degree field is Fitness, Conditioning, and Performance, stating, “Our program prepares you for a career and certification in personal training or strength and conditioning. You will gain a solid foundation for athletic training, coaching, and other sport-related areas. You will also complete a six hour internship with your coursework.” www.potentialmagazine.com Summer 2020 | 19