When
Sports, Numbers and a
CPA License Collide for a Power Play
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!
