YMCA Sports & Recreation Management Internship - Fall 2025

Sports & Recreation Internship
Make an Impact.

Gain Experience.

Grow Your Career.
About Us
At the YMCA, we're more than just a fitness facility-we're a nationally recognized nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Our sports and recreation programs help children build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and stay active while forming lasting friendships.

From soccer and basketball to karate and rock climbing, we offer engaging activities that keep kids learning and growing every season.
About the Internship
Are you passionate about sports and recreation? Looking to gain hands-on experience in program coordination, coaching, and youth development? A Sports & Recreation Internship at the YMCA provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a professional setting while directly impacting young athletes.

As an intern, you will work alongside the Sports & Recreation Director, gaining experience in program management, coaching, customer service, and facility operations.

This internship is designed to help you build essential skills in leadership, teamwork, and sports administration-setting a strong foundation for your future career.
What You'll Do
On a typical day, you will:


* Assist with recreational youth basketball leagues and seasonal sports programs.


* Coach the fundamentals of various sports, emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and confidence-building.


* Coordinate programming at large gymnasiums and sports centers.


* Engage directly with children, parents, and YMCA members to create a positive and inclusive environment.


* Develop and implement marketing materials to promote programs.


* Maintain program facilities and ensure a high-quality experience for participants.


* Learn about program administration, scheduling, and operational logistics.


* Gain valuable exposure to YMCA leadership and career pathways within sports and recreation.

Is This the Right Opportunity for You?
This internship is ideal for you if:
✔️ You love sports and have the ability to teach basic skills and fundamentals.
✔️ You enjoy coaching or want to develop coaching experience.
✔️ You have experience working with youth and are passionate about mentorship.
✔️ You're interested in learning about the behind-the-scenes management of sports programming.
✔️ You are studying Sports Management, Recreation & Leisure, Nonprofit or Business Management, Physical Education, or a related field.
✔️ You aspire to become an Athletic Director, Sports League Coordinator, Physical Education Teacher, or YMCA Sports Program Director.
Internship Highlights


* Hands-on learning experience with direct youth engagement.


* Exposure to program planning, coordination, and leadership development.


* Opportunity to complete a final project, such as a case study evaluating a recreational program and presenting a business...