Coaches and Scouts

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in the fundamentals of sports for the primary purpose of competition. Demonstrate techniques and methods of participation. May evaluate athletes' strengths and weaknesses as possible recruits or to improve the athletes' technique to prepare them for competition. Those required to hold teaching certifications should be reported in the appropriate teaching category.

$45,920
Median Annual Pay
Jobs growth:
+6% projected 2024–2034
Bachelor's degree
Typical Entry-Level Education

What They Do

Coaches and scouts work directly with athletes to develop talent and build competitive teams. Coaches spend their days planning practice sessions, teaching techniques, and running drills that improve players' skills and physical conditioning. They analyze game footage to identify areas for improvement, develop game strategies, and make critical decisions during competitions about lineups and tactics. During practices and games, they provide real-time feedback and motivation to help athletes perform at their best. Scouts travel extensively to watch games and tournaments, evaluating players' abilities, potential, and character to identify promising recruits for their organization. They compile detailed reports on athletes' strengths, weaknesses, and overall fit with team needs.

Programs That Prepare You

College programs linked to this occupation, ranked by graduate earnings

Health and Physical Education/Fitness(doctoral)University of Western States, OR
$77,396
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)CUNY Brooklyn College, NY
$76,067
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(doctoral)University of North Carolina at Greensboro, NC
$71,670
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(doctoral)United States Sports University, AL
$71,149
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Plymouth State University, NH
$70,081
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Saint Mary's College of California, CA
$64,450
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Columbia University in the City of New York, NY
$63,418
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Concordia University-Irvine, CA
$61,782
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Central Washington University, WA
$61,551
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, TX
$60,785
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Sul Ross State University, TX
$60,059
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)American Public University System, WV
$59,601
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Concordia University-Nebraska, NE
$58,863
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Northwestern University, IL
$58,537
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)American University, DC
$58,019
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Auburn University at Montgomery, AL
$55,725
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Ohio University-Main Campus, OH
$55,675
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Texas Woman's University, TX
$55,110
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)East Texas A&M University, TX
$55,000
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Georgetown University, DC
$54,668
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)University of Virginia-Main Campus, VA
$54,185
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)United States Sports University, AL
$54,034
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Dallas Baptist University, TX
$53,971
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Southeastern Oklahoma State University, OK
$53,961
Health and Physical Education/Fitness(masters)Arkansas State University, AR
$53,952

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