Careers in Sports Science
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NZIS- training and information
In 2016, the New Zealand Olympic team is 177 athletes strong and they’re competing in 18 sports. What can sometimes be forgotten is the team behind the athletes, there are 165 more people in our Olympic team that keep athletes on track to their goal of winning gold this year.
Being passionate about a sport doesn’t always mean being in the spotlight and competing, there are great careers out there for people who want to work behind the scenes; and what’s better is that it’s a growing industry in New Zealand.
5 career possibilities to consider:
What behind-the-scenes sports job is right for you?
1. You should consider being a Coach if you are fair, a quick decision maker, motivational, analytical and a great communicator? Coaches help athletes learn the rules and skills of a sport and come up with game winning strategies. They motivate their team, understanding different players’ key skills and encourage talented athletes. And much more!
2. You should consider being a Physiotherapist if you are positive, supportive, a good listener, able to work as part of a team and fascinated by how the human body works and recovers? Physiotherapists that specialise in sport keep athletes in their best physical shape and help condition them leading up to a big tournament such as the Olympics.
3. You should consider being a Psychologist if you are interested in the power of the mind, understanding, analytical, patient, adaptable and work well under stress? Psychologists help athletes train their brain to stay positive and focussed on their goals. As we know, emotional intelligence is a crucial part of making it as an elite athlete and psychologists who work in sport are experts in this area.
4. You should consider being a Dietitian if you are outgoing, inspiring, patient, interested in science and food and relatable. Dietitians ensure athletes are getting all the dietary requirements needed to excel. They make sure the athlete’s diet is right for their body, lifestyle and their sport.
5. You should consider being a Sports Event Planner if you are organised, creative, confident, deadline focussed and a good decision maker? Event planners work with the team or athletes reps to plan, organise and promote events and conferences. They work as a liaison between the sports team and the event facility.
These are just five possible career paths that could get you to the Olympics one day, but there are so many more possibilities.