Sports Intern; Academy

Position: Sports Performance Intern (Academy)
The Sports Performance Internship at Lou City/Racing Academy is a structured, NSCA-approved educational experience designed to prepare aspiring strength and conditioning professionals for applied work in a long-term athlete development environment. Interns will gain hands-on experience supporting on-field and gym-based training sessions while working under the direct supervision of the Academy Sports Performance Director.

Upon successful completion of the internship requirements, participants will be eligible to receive 2.0 NSCA Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

NSCA CEU Information

This internship is part of an NSCA-approved provider program. Interns who successfully complete all internship requirements will be eligible to receive 2.0 NSCA Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

NSCA CEUs are applicable for individuals who are currently NSCA-certified or who obtain NSCA certification following completion of the internship.

Interns are expected to demonstrate punctuality, professionalism, clear communication, and a willingness to learn. Adherence to academy policies, staff expectations, and safety standards is required at all times.

Learning Objectives:

By the conclusion of the internship, interns will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of long-term athlete development principles
• Assist in the delivery of age-appropriate speed, agility, strength, and conditioning sessions
• Apply effective coaching cues, demonstrations, and progressions
• Support performance testing and basic data collection under supervision
• Exhibit professionalism within a multidisciplinary academy environment

Primary Responsibilities:

• Assist with on-field and gym-based sports performance training session
• Support session setup, breakdown, and equipment management
• Assist with warm-ups, movement preparation, and speed and agility drills
• Observe and assist with performance testing and athlete monitoring
• Maintain a positive, professional, and learning-focused environment

Supervision & Mentorship

Interns will work under the direct supervision of the Academy Sports Performance Director (CSCS). Interns will not independently lead training sessions and will assist staff at all times. Ongoing mentorship, feedback, and professional development opportunities will be provided throughout the internship

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field
• Strong interest in strength and conditioning and athlete development
• Ability to work in a team-based, fast-paced environment
• Professional demeanor and strong communication skills
• CPR/AED certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program
• Eligible to receive academic credit through their educational institution (if applicable)
• Successful completion of a background check

Time Commitment & Duration:

• Approximately 10-15 hours per week for 10 weeks.
• Schedule:
  
  Afternoons and evenings aligned with academy training sessions
• Internship schedule coordinated to align with academic commitments whenever possible.

Additional Internship Information:

• This is an unpaid educational internship designed to provide practical, hands-on experience in a professional setting.
• Upon successful completion of the internship requirements, participants will be eligible to receive 2.0 NSCA Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
• Non-monetary perks (e.g., game tickets, merchandise discounts, networking events, staff training) may be offered as part of the learning experience.
• All interns will be required to undergo a background check prior to their first day.
• Interns working directly with team technical staff or youth academy and those who have regular contact with players must complete Safe Sport training within the first seven days of their start date.
• Interns are responsible for their own housing, transportation, and expenses.
• Interns must follow all company policies, including confidentiality and professional conduct.
• Interns will not perform the routine work of paid staff, and the experience is intended primarily for the benefit of the intern.
• Participation does not guarantee future employment with Soccer…