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Author: Jenna Elkins, NASBA Communications and Digital Media Specialist
Infographic designed by: Anthony Cox, NASBA Graphic Designer
Posted: June 5, 2017

Only blocks away from NASBA headquarters is Bridgestone Arena, where the Nashville Predators, local National Hockey League (NHL) team, is competing in the 2017 Stanley Cup Finals for the first-time in the team’s history. With all the fanfare and excitement surrounding the Predators’ historic run in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, it’s hard not to think about sports and how a team’s success (or losing streaks) can greatly influence accounting numbers.

By “numbers” we’re talking about the facts and figures typical fans probably don’t think much about, such as projecting monthly budgets or managing payroll. The person(s) behind these numbers, recommendations and financial decisions on behalf of the players, coaches, staff, marketing, etc., is an accountant or a team of accountants (depending on team size) who constantly crunches/crunch numbers so the team can win (if possible), financially.

What does it take to be an accountant for a team or sports organization? Lots of hard work and a desire to see the team succeed, both on and off the field. The competition for accounting jobs with professional sports organizations is fierce as there are only so many jobs with a limited number of teams. So, building your accounting skills stack is essential.

According to Start Here, Go Places, “CPAs in all businesses – especially sports – recommend taking an internship in or after college (even if it’s unpaid) to get your foot in the door.” Also, besides doing well in your accounting courses, passing the CPA Exam and getting licensed is an important step in furthering your career in sports accounting.

For a closer look at how to become a sports accountant and what it will take to combine your passion of sports and numbers, take a look at the below infographic. Start your Power Play, today!

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