The Athlete’s Guide to Side Hustles: Scoring Big Beyond the Game

Being a student-athlete is a full-time gig, juggling early morning workouts, afternoon practices, and late-night study sessions. But let’s face it—between the rising costs of textbooks and the ever-present temptation of a double-shot caramel latte, many athletes could use an extra income stream. Enter the side hustle: a chance to flex not only your athletic skills but your entrepreneurial spirit.

While your sport may demand a majority of your time and energy, having a side hustle isn’t just about the money. It’s about building a life raft of financial stability, creating opportunities for personal growth, and maybe even discovering a passion that could outlast your playing days. And, no, it doesn’t have to involve waking up even earlier than your 5:00 a.m. practice.

Leveraging Your Athlete Advantage

You’re not just a college student; you’re an athlete—a brand in the making. That jersey number and school pride give you a built-in edge when it comes to attracting attention and customers. Whether it’s selling customized workout plans, running a sports-themed YouTube channel, or teaching a Zoom class on perfecting the free throw, your unique experience as an athlete sets you apart.

For instance, a volleyball player could offer private coaching sessions for middle schoolers. A swimmer might share tips on stroke efficiency through a subscription-based blog. These hustles not only bring in cash but help you develop teaching, communication, and leadership skills—qualities that recruiters love seeing on resumes.

And let’s not forget the allure of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities. If your athletic prowess has earned you a social media following, use it! Partner with brands you believe in, promote their products, and pad your wallet—all while staying true to your personal brand.

Picking the Right Play

Every successful athlete knows the value of playing to their strengths. The same applies to side hustles. Start by asking yourself a few questions:

• What do you enjoy doing outside of sports?
• Do you have skills that others might find valuable?
• How much time can you realistically dedicate without burning out?

For those who are creatively inclined, freelance graphic design or content creation could be the way to go. If you’re great with people, a gig like tutoring or mentoring younger athletes might suit you better. If you’re tech-savvy, dive into coding or app development—many platforms offer quick courses that let you monetize your skills faster than you can say “final buzzer.”

Remember, the goal is to complement your athletic schedule, not compete with it. Overloading yourself with responsibilities is a sure way to fumble both your game and your side hustle.

Turning Hustle Into Harmony

Balancing the grind of athletics, academics, and a side hustle is like juggling three flaming bowling pins. But here’s the good news: it’s doable. The key is time management. Treat your side hustle like a team practice—schedule it into your week, and commit to it just like you would commit to drills or game prep.

Technology can be your best teammate here. Apps like Trello, Notion, or even a good old Google Calendar can help you organize tasks and deadlines. Divide your time wisely, and remember to pencil in rest. Exhausted athletes don’t win games—or make money.

Also, lean on your teammates and mentors for advice or even collaboration. Who says a few players on the same team can’t band together and start a fitness apparel line or a meal-prep service? Teamwork makes the dream work, after all.

Hustle Responsibly

While the idea of extra cash is exciting, it’s essential to make sure you’re staying within the bounds of NCAA rules (or those of your respective athletic association). NIL deals and other side hustles have opened many doors, but knowing the legal and institutional limits can save you from an unexpected foul.

And don’t forget Uncle Sam. Taxes are a reality for any side hustle. Whether you’re selling homemade energy bars at local games or monetizing TikTok videos, you’ll want to keep track of your earnings. It’s worth seeking guidance from your school’s financial advisor or consulting a tax pro.

The Bigger Picture

Side hustles are more than a means to an end—they’re an opportunity to explore your identity outside of sports. They can teach you business basics, foster connections, and give you a sense of independence. Plus, who doesn’t love a little extra padding in their wallet?

Some athletes discover that their side hustle becomes their main hustle post-graduation. Your freelance photography business could turn into a creative agency. That personal training side gig? It could evolve into a full-scale fitness brand. The possibilities are endless, and it all starts with taking that first small step.

So, whether you’re flipping sneakers, flipping pancakes, or flipping spreadsheets, embrace the hustle. With your work ethic, discipline, and competitive edge, you’re more than equipped to dominate in the marketplace as much as you do on the field. Keep hustling, keep dreaming, and keep scoring big—on and off the court.