Department Sport Performance

Reports To: Head of Sport Performance

Position Type: Internship (Unpaid)

This position is non-paid. College Credit available

An applicant must either attend a North Carolina school or be a permanent North Carolina resident attending a school out of state. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Interns may work a maximum of 24 hours per week.

Position Summary

The Sport Performance Intern will assist the Sport Performance Department in the daily preparation, implementation, and operation of high-performance services for the MLS Next Pro Men’s Team and Academy as needed. This internship is designed for individuals seeking hands-on experience within a professional soccer environment. The selected candidate will gain exposure to strength & conditioning, sport science, recovery, athlete monitoring, and daily performance operations while working alongside an interdisciplinary high-performance staff. This role requires professionalism, initiative, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced professional environment. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

 ● Assist with daily setup and breakdown of training and gym environments
 ● Support implementation of strength & conditioning sessions and field-based performance activities such as return to play and individual development plans
 ● Assist with athlete monitoring systems including GPS, wellness questionnaires, and performance data collection
 ● Organize, maintain, and manage performance equipment and training spaces
 ● Support recovery protocols and post-training recovery operations
 ● Assist with hydration, nutrition station setup, and fueling logistics
 ● Support matchday and travel-related performance operations when assigned
 ● Uphold confidentiality and professional standards within a professional sport environment
 ● Perform additional duties as assigned by the Sport Performance staff Qualifications & Requirements Required Qualifications
 ● Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree in: ○ Exercise Science ○ Kinesiology ○ Sport Science ○ Strength & Conditioning ○ Athletic Performance ○ Or related field
 ● Strong interest in elite/professional soccer performance
 ● Excellent organizational and communication skills
 ● Strong work ethic with the ability to take initiative and complete tasks independently
 ● Ability to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and matchdays
 ● Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a high-performance environment 
 ● CPR/AED certification (required prior to start date) Preferred Qualifications
 ● Previous internship or coaching experience in collegiate or professional athletics
 ● Experience with athlete monitoring technologies (GPS, HR monitoring, force plates, AMS platforms, etc.) ● Familiarity with strength training and movement preparation principles
 ● Interest in long-term athlete development and return-to-play processes
 ● CSCS, SCCC, or related certifications (preferred but not required) Physical Requirements
 ● Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs
 ● Ability to stand for extended periods during training sessions and match operations
 ● Ability to work in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions
 ● Ability to perform physically active tasks throughout the workday Internship Details
 ● Duration: June-October 
 ● Compensation: Unpaid; academic credit may be available if applicable through the candidate’s educational institution
 ● Location: Go-Forth Elite Performance Center, High Point, North Carolina Learning Opportunities Interns will gain practical experience and mentorship within:
 ● Professional soccer sport performance operations
 ● Strength & conditioning implementation
 ● Athlete monitoring systems and performance technologies
 ● Recovery and regeneration strategies
 ● Interdisciplinary collaboration within an elite performance environment
 ● Daily operations in a professional team setting Application Requirements 

Applicants must submit
 ● Resume
 ● Cover Letter 
 ● 2 Professional References
 
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.