Those considering pursuing a career in sports can learn about the business side of the industry in a new survey course offered at Gateway Community College (GCC). 

Introduction to Sports Management (BMG 198) is being offered next fall through GCC’s Business Department.  The course will run on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:40 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and examines the principles and foundations of sport management and the business functions within various sectors of the industry.  Fall semester classes start on August 27.

There are a broad range of jobs in the sports management field, including athletic directors, facility directors, in sports marketing, apparel, and public relations.  Throughout the course, emphasis will be given to the application of business disciplines to the birth, organization and management of sports enterprises, ranging from sports teams to athletic arenas, health clubs to rehabilitation facilities, in sports officiating, and sports recreation services.  Topics covered include management and marketing principles, financial principles, legal aspects, sport sponsorship, and broadcasting.

Professor Todd Degree said that the new course is well suited to anyone seeking knowledge on the business side of sports, whether major league, minor league, college, fitness, apparel or other areas.  Degree has worked in college and minor league athletics, as well as in various capacities within the fitness industry.  He noted there are several four-year institutions in the state offering sport management majors and students interested in pursuing this field should continue with business courses.