Get a Job as a Skating Program Manager

Some current and former skaters consider a job in club, camp or sports center program management. This includes job titles like "skating program director" or "skating camp supervisor." These positions require a good people skills as well as some basic business skills, and a solid working knowledge of the fundamental skills of skating itself. A skating program manager is responsible for teaching as well as securing teachers.

This job is different from skating instructor or camp counselor positions, because other responsibilities include organization, management and direction of recreational, educational and competitive inline or roller skating programs and activities. The skating program manager works directly with the other members of the teaching staff as well as with some of the skaters or skate families in the programs.

• Making important club, camp or sports center activity decisions.
• Development of policies and procedures for skating program(s).
• Evaluation of safety procedures to be used during classes, training or activities.
• Recruiting, hiring, training and/or supervising skating teachers and trainers.
• Promotion, planning and supervising of all skating events, test sessions, training sessions.
• public skating events and group or private skating lessons.
• Management of registration, activities and special events.
• Development of new class, training and recreational activities.
• Monitoring the quality of instruction and activities.
• Building good relationships with individuals, agencies and groups that can help the skating program.
• Option to teach private or group lessons.

• Undergraduate degree in related sports subjects and/or equivalent skating industry experience.
• Successful experience in teaching group and private roller sports lessons.
• Knowledge of USA Roller Sports or related governing body skating programs, rules, policies and procedures.
• Experience in coordinating skating competitions, exhibitions, events or shows.
• Knowledge and experience with skating equipment and apparel.

Club, camp or sports center program management jobs are important, because running a beneficial skating program or a productive skating group can affect the development of many skaters and instructors. Even though you may be attracted to this job because it keeps you near your sport, remember that your main function will be helping other skaters grow in the roller sports and most of your responsibilities will be administrative.

Subscribe to roller sports trade publications to take advantage of their classified ad banks. Get in touch with sports centers, schools and skating rinks near your area to find any jobs they may be offering. If you are professional and persistent, they will consider you when an opening is available. And be sure to network with members of the various skating and coaching associations, because they may have information on job opportunities in their areas of coverage.

Have you ever worked in an inline skating or roller sports related job? Share your skating employment story and tell us about the job you found, how you found it, what your job responsibilities were and whether you would recommend this type of employment to another skater.