How to become a sports agent: All the details and facts

How to become a sports agent: All the details and facts

Sospeter Itolondo
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:24 PM

A sports agent is one of the most important people athletes need to have on their team and in their careers. They simply represent the athlete or a coach in their employment terms and negotiation of salaries, among other things. So, here is how to become a sports agent.

How to become a sports agent in California
Agent Mino Raiola arrives at J Medical on July 17, 2019, in Turin, Italy. Photo: Stefano Guidi
Source: Getty Images

Some top sports agents known in the world include Scott Boras, Jorge Mendes who used to represent Cristiano Ronaldo, and the late Mino Raiola who represented Paul Pogba, among others. To become a top sports agent, one must have an eye for talent and make sure the deal you have on the table is beneficial for your client and the sports teams in the long run. So, how hard or easy is it to become a sports agent? Read on to find out.

How to become a sports agent

So, what do you need to become a sports agent? Becoming a sports agent is one of the most difficult jobs in the world as it is very competitive. They have to make sure they are at the top of their game to get the best talents and sign them the best deals. Here is how to become a sports agent:

1. Have wide knowledge of the sport

An agent is required to know the in and outs of the sport they are representing their client in. They are supposed to offer their clients the best clubs for a lucrative career. They are also supposed to make sure their clients get a handsome payout as they also get a part of their earnings. An agent is also supposed to offer their client to a club that would appreciate his skills and be utilized to the full.

A sports agent will face a lot of legal mumble jumble while negotiating contracts for their clients. It is only fair if one has experience dealing with the terminologies and the technicalities of the practice. It would also be wise if one worked with actual lawyers who would advise accordingly in time of need.

How to become a sports agent without a degree
Scott Boras introduces Masataka Yoshida of the Boston Red Sox during a press conference, announcing his contract agreement on December 15, 2022, at Fenway Park in Boston. Photo: Billie Weiss
Source: Getty Images

3. Acquire formal education

The question of how to become a sports agent without a degree is difficult as most sports associations prefer if their agents have one. To be an agent one is required to have an undergraduate degree in either Business management or sports management. It should be noted that one can also make it without a degree, but it would be somehow difficult to enter into the firms.

4. Experience

Having experience especially as a beginner will put one above the competition. Experience under an established agent helps one to get the know-how on the ground and get a more hands-on approach which is beneficial. A good internship is so powerful that can sometimes override the need for a bachelor’s degree.

5. Get a license

Different sports associations have different requirements someone needs to fulfill to get a license. This may involve an exam, a criminal background check, and a registration fee. For example, the English FA charges $615 while the Major League Baseball charges $2000. After one has fulfilled these, they are ready to go out and find clients.

How to become a sports agent NFL
Tom Condon of Limerick lifts the Liam MacCarthy Cup following the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship Final match between Limerick and Waterford at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo: Ramsey Cardy
Source: Getty Images

The best way to get clients is to network and put yourself out there. Get leads, network with other agents, and browse online for jobs and potential clients.

How to become a sports agent NFL

The NFL is one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and the agents have to be top-notch. For one to be part of the league they have to:

  • Pay a non-refundable $2500 application fee
  • An undergrad or postgraduate degree from a reputable University or college
  • 7 years of experience which can substitute the degrees
  • Pass all background checks
  • Attend a two-day virtual seminar and pass an administration exam and a multiple choice proctored exam
  • Have a valid email address

How to become a sports agent in California

California has one of the most strict rules unbecoming a sports agent. One will is required to be inept with the sport they want to venture in. This means reading books about it, magazines, and websites. One should also know the legal implications of being an agent in the area.

How to become a sports agent in California
Sports agent Leigh Steinberg speaks on stage during day one with SiriusXM at Super Bowl LIV on January 29, 2020, in Miami, Florida. Photo: Cindy Ord
Source: Getty Images

A college degree in sports management is also preferred. A prospective agent is also supposed to have experience, especially through internships. They are also required to have a license which is applied at a $30 fee. One is also supposed to have a $100,000 bond surety.

How to become a sports agent in Texas

To represent an athlete in Texas, one needs to be certified by at least one sports association in the US for a professional agent. A limited agent is not required to have the same. Those are the two categories of agents in the state.

How to become a sports agent after law school

After law school, one should focus on getting experience by working with more established agents. They can also work in associations. Finally, they should work to get a license and fulfill all the requirements set up by the relevant organizations.

How to become a sports agent without a degree
Business partners walking outside of an office building. Photo: Ruslan Dashinsky
Source: Getty Images

The ins and outs of how to become a sports agent depend on the organization, sport, state, and country. Overall, a sports agent is required to have people skills and an eye for talent. Though a bachelor’s degree is not required sometimes, it may be crucial for most circumstances. They are also expected to have legal technicalities on their fingerprints to help their clients secure lucrative contracts.

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Sospeter Itolondo
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