Japan Market Research Intern
STEEL SPORTS
Steel Sports is a Social Impact organization, located in ten (10) different regions from coast to coast. Our mission is to inspire youth to reach their potential, on and off the field, by developing them as athletes and people through the Steel Sports coaching system, “The Lasorda Way”. Through its “kids first” approach, Steel Sports is establishing the Steel standard in youth sports and coaching, forging the next generation of leaders by instilling Steel Sports’ core values: Teamwork, Respect, Integrity, and Commitment.
Steel Sports creates a positive youth sports experience – building character and teaching life lessons - for over 100,000 athletes each year. In addition to Steel Soccer, Steel Sports operates Team Steel Baseball and Softball at Lasorda Legacy Park. Steel Sports believes strongly in the impact of our coaches and invests regularly in their ongoing professional development and coach education. This role includes opportunities for optional travel and the ability to collaborate with other professional coaches across the country.
Sports Unify. Steel Sports is committed to supporting Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Allyship, and Leadership in Sports. We strive to provide an experience that strengthens character, encourages servant leadership, and teaches life lessons through sport in ways that intentionally address dimensions of diversity including but not limited to age, race, sex, class, national origin, creed, educational background, religion, gender identity, disability, gender expression, geographical location, income, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation and work experiences.
Please check out www.steelsports.com to learn more about us!
About the Role:
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Market Research Intern to support our efforts in exploring opportunities for launching youth sports programs in Japan, with a focus on baseball, softball and soccer. This role will play a key part in gathering and analyzing market data, identifying trends, and providing actionable insights to guide our strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct market research on the youth sports industry in Japan.
- Identify key regions, demographics, and trends in youth participation.
- Research existing clubs, programs, competitors, pricing models, and best practices.
- Analyze customer needs, parent expectations, coaching education, and barriers to participation.
- Explore cultural, regulatory, and logistical considerations for starting sports programs in Japan.
- Assist in mapping out potential partnerships with schools, municipalities, or sports organizations.
- Summarize findings in clear reports and presentations.
- Provide recommendations based on research insights.
What You’ll Gain:
- Hands-on experience in market research and business strategy.
- Exposure to sports entrepreneurship and youth development in Japan.
- Opportunity to directly contribute to shaping a new sports club program model.
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
Requirements
- Strong interest in sports, youth development, and/or business strategy.
- Native-level Japanese language ability required; English proficiency preferred.
- Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative.
- Familiarity with Japanese culture, especially in youth sports, is a plus.
- Experience with data collection (surveys, interviews, desk research) is a plus.
Salary Range
$18-$22/hr
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.