8 Ways Students Can Prepare for a Career in Player Development
Preparing for a Player Development Career? Start Here.
I just returned from Duke University, where I spent three powerful days with student-athletes, staff, and the Duke Football program. Every time I step back on a college campus, I’m reminded of how much I love the energy of students — especially those interested in serving athletes beyond the game.
That’s why this episode of The Player Development Pod is for the students.
Whether you’re in undergrad or grad school, if you’ve ever thought, “I want to work in player development,” this one’s for you. It’s not about waiting for a title. It’s about preparing now.
👇🏾Here are 8 practical ways students can start preparing for a career in player development:
✅ 1. Understand the Role
Before you chase the title, understand the responsibility. Player development isn’t one-size-fits-all — some roles focus on career, others on life skills, community, wellness, and more. Dive deep into what the role actually is, how it fits into athletic departments, and how it impacts the student-athlete experience.
🎧 2. Listen to People Who Do the Work
Podcasts. Panels. LinkedIn Lives. Content. The more you listen to those in the seat, the better your understanding will be. You’ll learn about their challenges, wins, and day-to-day impact. Don’t just read job descriptions — listen to real voices in the space.
🙌🏾 3. Serve Where You Are
Don’t wait to get hired to start doing the work. Serve your fellow students. Mentor athletes in the weight room, help with resumes, start a wellness campaign, lead a community service project. Impact starts now.
💼 4. Build a LinkedIn Network
You can’t grow in this profession in isolation. Start building your network today. Use LinkedIn to follow people in player development, comment on their posts, and connect with intention.
❓ 5. Ask Better Questions
Once you’re connected, don’t just ask “What is player development?” Ask them about lessons learned, impact moments, career challenges, or what they wish they knew earlier. Show that you’ve done your homework.
👥 6. Create a Peer Group
Your circle matters. Build a community of people who are also pursuing this field — some ahead of you, some behind. Share ideas, articles, job postings, and encouragement.
📍 7. Connect Locally
Find a player development or student-athlete development professional at a nearby college or high school and request a meeting. Learn how their program works. You don’t have to go viral — you just have to go local.
🔍 8. Read Job Descriptions
Reading job postings helps you understand the expectations of the role. Look at what departments want. Pay attention to responsibilities, skills, and required experience. Then, work backward and start gaining that experience now.
I’ve always enjoyed supporting students who want to serve athletes. This space needs more leaders who are intentional, consistent, and ready to grow.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here
🙋🏾♂️ Students — got questions? Send them my way. I'm happy to help.